Things to do in Mongolian Altai
Discover the best attractions and experiences Mongolian Altai has to offer
Historic Monuments
Ancient art and sacred landscapes in the Mongolian Altai reveal the region’s long history.
Altai Mountain Petroglyphs
Ancient rock carvings scattered across the Altai foothills, depicting animals, humans, and symbolic scenes.
Five Sacred Peaks of Tavan Bogd
A cluster of sacred summits revered by local communities, offering dramatic alpine scenery and spiritual resonance.
Museums
Museums in the region showcase local history, culture, and the natural heritage of the Altai.
Bayan-Ölgii Aimag Museum
Exhibits on local history, archaeology, and Kazakh nomadic culture.
Kazakh Culture Center Museum in Ölgii
Displays traditional clothing, handicrafts, and stories of the Altai’s Kazakh heritage.
Religious Monuments
Religious sites reflect the region’s diverse spiritual heritage and peaceful coexistence.
Bayan-Ölgii Mosque
A central mosque serving the local Muslim Kazakh community and visitors.
Local Buddhist shrine near the Altai foothills
A small Buddhist shrine reflecting western Mongolia’s spiritual blend.
National & Theme Parks
Scenic parks and alpine lakes offer epic trekking, glacier views and wildlife encounters.
Tavan Bogd National Park
Mongolia’s western frontier park, home to glaciers, high lakes, and Khüiten Peak.
Potanin Glacier
One of the region’s largest glaciers with routes for guided treks.
Khoton Lake
A tranquil alpine lake framed by snowy peaks and sweeping tundra.
Dayan Lake
Another pristine lake popular for easy hikes and sunset views.
Neighborhoods
Base yourself in key settlements that anchor exploration of the Altai.
Ölgii City Center
The provincial capital’s markets, eateries, and starting point for treks.
Khoton Village
A traditional Kazakh settlement offering a glimpse into nomadic life.
Free Things to Do
Experience the Altai without a price tag with these nature-first activities.
Hiking to glacier viewpoints in Tavan Bogd
Follow alpine trails to sweeping glacier vistas.
Stargazing under clear Altai skies
With minimal light pollution, the night sky reveals constellations.
Sunrise over the alpine valleys
Watch the sun light up rugged peaks as the day begins.
Gastronomy
Sampling Kazakh-influenced Mongolian fare is a must in the Altai.
Beshbarmak
A hearty traditional noodle and meat dish, widely enjoyed.
Khuushuur
Deep-fried meat pastries, popular at camps and markets.
Airag
Fermented mare’s milk beverage with a tangy, refreshing flavor.
Nightlife
Evenings bring cultural warmth around campfires and performances.
Traditional Kazakh throat singing performances
Autentic vocal art echoing across the camps.
Ger camp evenings with local music and storytelling
Relaxed cultural entertainment around a fire.
Moonlight horseback rides
Calm rides under the stars with guides.
Entertainment
Live shows highlight the region’s nomadic heritage.
Eagle hunting demonstrations
Watch Kazakh hunters and their majestic golden eagles.
Horse riding demonstrations and games
Traditional equestrian displays and quick clinics.
Folk dance performances in camps
Local dances that celebrate steppe heritage.
Sports
Outdoor sports thrive in Mongolia’s western frontiers.
Horseback riding across the steppe
Trek through valleys and plains with local guides.
Hiking between lakes and glaciers
Moderate to challenging treks with alpine scenery.
Snow trekking in winter
Seasonal trekking across snow-covered trails.
Off the Track
Go beyond the main sights with immersive, authentic experiences.
Nomadic family homestay
Spend a night with a Kazakh nomadic family to learn daily life.
Private photography trek through remote valleys
Capture untouched landscapes with a guide.
Visit a Kazakh hunter’s camp
Learn about traditional skills and tools used by eagle hunters.