How and Why You Should Vacation in Mongolia

Mongolia is one of the most beautiful places in Asia, and some say the world, to visit. This Asian country's green mountain's, pristine lakes, grass covered steppe and vast desert make it a favorite locale for filmmakers and trekkers alike. In fact, there is something in this beautiful country for everyone, and most people find it hard to visit just once. And with so much to see in this peaceful, friendly country most travelers find that their most difficult decision is navigating this vast and varied country. Read on to find out what you need to know about your first trip to the Asian north.

When to go to Mongolia?

Unless you are impervious to the cold (it can get down to thirteen below), the best time to visit Mongolia is between May and August. The summer temperatures are mild (around 70 degrees), and the daylight lasts until 11pm near the top of the world. However, this is also prime tourist time so be sure to book any tours or packages early. If you want to avoid the crowds, consider traveling in September or October when the days are still warm and the nights are only a little chilly.

Where to go in Mongolia?

Mongolia is a large country with many different regions and natural attractions. However, these are perhaps the most exciting places for a first time visitor.

Ulan Bataar

This is the capital of Mongolia, home to most of its population and a great Asian travel destination. This relatively modern city makes a great stop before you head out to the beautiful wilderness of the Mongolian landscape.

Mongolia is a city full of history and beautiful scenery, and the museums of Ulan Bataar are a great place to learn about both before you head out to see them first hand. The Mongolian Museum of Natural History exhibits all of the natural plants and animals that are found across Mongolia. Plus, it features many of the fossils that have recently been found in the Gobi desert. To learn more about the people of Mongolia, head to the National Museum of Mongolian History or one of the city's many monasteries.

If you haven't booked a prepackaged tour with your travel agent, Ulan Bataar's many hotels and internet cafes are great places to find out about available treks, guided tours, transportation and translators. They will help you find and reach any destination that you would like to reach safely and relatively inexpensively.

After you've booked your tour, there are many bars, restaurants and cafes in the capital city to enjoy. Many feature traditional as well as western style food and atmosphere to fit any budget. Plus, there's a German beer brewery in the city that's definitely worth checking out.

Khanggai

With so many different types of scenery, it is hard to decide what the most beautiful area in Mongolia is. But Khanggai is definitely in the running. A trip here should begin with a visit to the ancient city of Karachroam, established by Ghengis Khan in 1220 and once considered the ruling point of the world. Next, you can take your pick. Visit the beautiful, green mountains and the eight lakes near their top. Or visit some of Mongolia's most famous Buddhist monasteries like Erdene Zuu, Shankh Khiid or Thoviin Khiid. Khanggai is also home to Mongolia's biggest waterfall, and nomadic camps of yak and cashmere goat herders to visit.

Gobi Desert

If you really want to "get away from it all" this is the place to do it. This vast desert covers around a third of Mongolia with sand dunes, steppes and mountain ranges. But it is also dotted with wildlife including the Gobi Bear, wild camels and wolves. However, while it sounds like a great place to go for peace and quiet, this is not a place that you want to wander into alone. Hire a guide who will be able to locate the best scenery and opportunities to see wildlife in addition to important safety information for surviving out there in the wilderness. The peaceful calm and serene beauty of this Asian desert draws travelers back year after year. See it once and you'll be hooked.

Ways to See Mongolia

Motorcycle Tour. This is one of the most exciting ways to travel in this beautiful Asian country. Organizations like Off the Map Tours offer 10 day tours by off road motorcycle that travel through places like the Gobi desert, White Lake and Khorgo Volcano. They can be pretty pricey (a little under $4000) but they include everything but your International Flight and Visa processing fees.

Horseback or Mountain Bike. It doesn't get more intimate than this. The Horse Riding tours take you riding amongst the nomadic herding families of Mongolia to enjoy the scenery and their way of life up close. Mountain bike tours take you through mountain passes and by rivers to soak up some of the breathtaking scenery that only Mongolia can offer.

Package Tour. There is so much to see in Mongolia, that many vacationers opt to buy a package tour. It takes all of the guesswork and navigation out of your trip, and you can choose one that is tailored to your tastes. There are package travel tours for travelers interested in Mongolia's natural beauty that will take you to the best places to view unique scenery and animals. Or, there are cultural tours that will connect you to the people and ways of life that Mongolia has to offer. And you may even be able to spend some time in a Ger camp. There are many types of package tours to choose from, and you can even customize your own.