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Mongolia Travel Guide

Mongolian usually conjures up in the mind images of wind-swept steppes, yurts scattered on the vast expanses of pastures and, of course, names such as Genghis Khan. Although all these things are an essential part of Mongolian culture, there is much more to this seemingly isolated country than it meets the eye. The Mongols are friendly people who welcome the presence of visitors, and who can make the best of their inhospitable environment. Mongolia has a poignant, severe beauty that touches people precisely because it is unusual. Nomadic tribes are still living in Mongolia, despite the fact that the country’s capital, Ulan Bator is city that continues to expand and develop. Discover the breath-taking plains of Mongolia and the fascinating culture of its people. This Mongolia Travel Guide will tell you some more about the country, the people and their way of life.

Mongolia Travel Guide - Geography and climate

Mongolia is the largest landlocked country on the planet after Kazakhstan, and the nineteenth most sparsely populated country in the world, with its 2.9 million inhabitants. Most of the country’s population is concentrated in the capital city of Ulan Bator. Mongolia is also the only country where nomadic lifestyle is still the norm among a large section of the population. The nomads make a living out of animal husbandry, and they move wherever the pastures are more nurturing. A large portion of Mongolia is occupied by the Gobi desert, bordered by mountain ranges in the north and the west. Mongolia is a country of the extremes: summers can be scorching hot, and winters are usually bitterly cold. However, Mongolia is also called the “Country of Blue Skies”, no surprise since it enjoys 250 sunny days per year on average.

Mongolia Travel Guide - Culture

The nomadic way of life has always had a great influence on Mongolian culture. Arts, music and literature are weaved with the themes of homesickness, love for one’s family and horses. Hospitality is something that is offered gladly by any Mongolian with traditional values, especially on the steppes where life can be harsh. The traditional homes of the nomads are called yurts, and they are an integral part of the culture. Even in Ulan Bator, many people still live in these felt covered tents. Superstitions and omens play an important part in the lives of the people. Many old customs are still respected, even in the urban area, lending a unique charm even to the modern, westernized parts of the country. Mongolian cuisine is simple and nourishing and its main ingredients are meat and dairy. This Mongolia Travel Guide recommends that you try out one of the numerous restaurants in Ulan Bator where you can taste some of the traditional dishes, such as buuz, kuushuur or boortsog.