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Mongolia Road bridge

Mongolia Road Trip

Ulaanbaatar - Mandalgovi - Dalanzadgad - Sevrei - Gurvantes - Bayanlig - Bogd - Bayankhongor - Altai - Darvi - Khovd - Ulaangom - Turuun - Tes - Tsagaan Lake - Khatgal - Erdenebulgan - Badrah - Erdenet - Terelj

Expect on your itinerary

Landscape Landscape
Benefit-stress ratio Benefit-stress ratio
Security Security
Wildlife Wildlife
Culture Culture
Historical sites Historical sites
Comfort Comfort
Road conditions Road conditions
Mongolia Road Trip ACTIVATE MAP Stages20 km4,757 h/stage6.2

Best months to drive

I II III IV V VI
VII VIII IX X XI XII

Road Trip Costs

How much does it cost to go on a Mongolia Road Trip in Mongolia?

Economy
Low budget options by car rental, accommodation and catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 2,457EUR drive & more 638EUR sleep & more 836EUR eat & more 1,008EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 2,482EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 4,939EUR
Standard
Mid budget options by car rental, accommodation and catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 3,780EUR drive & more 850EUR sleep & more 1,661EUR eat & more 1,512EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 4,023EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 7,803EUR
Premium
High budget options by car rental, accommodation and catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 4,914EUR drive & more 1,163EUR sleep & more 2,772EUR eat & more 2,016EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 5,951EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 10,865EUR
Camper
On the road in RV, overnight at camp grounds with self-catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 4,725EUR drive & more 1,288EUR sleep & more 1,155EUR eat & more 1,008EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 3,451EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 8,176EUR
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Mongolia Road Trip Itinerary

Embark on a journey through Mongolia on the Mongolia Road Trip! This amazing road trip starts in Ulaanbaatar and takes you through some of Mongolia's most beautiful towns and landscapes. With a total distance of 4834km, this trip is best done over 21 days to make sure you have time to take in all the sights and experiences. The best time to take this road trip is from May to October, when the weather is mild and the scenery is at its best. Along the way, you'll get to experience the diverse landscapes of Mongolia, from the rolling hills of Mandalgovi to the stunning Altai Mountains. You'll also get to explore some of Mongolia's UNESCO Heritage Monuments, such as the Gurvantes Monastery and the Khatgal Monastery. One thing to be aware of is that the road conditions in Mongolia are generally poor, so it's important to plan your route carefully and take your time. Despite this, the Mongolia Road Trip is an amazing experience and a great way to make long-lasting memories. It's suitable for all drivers and can be managed on a fair budget. So, why not take the plunge and embark on this incredible journey today?
number of days 21 number of days
route length 4,757 km route length
budget moderate budget
good for explorer good for
traffic direction on the right traffic direction
accident level fair accident level

START Ulaanbaatar

Distance 4,757 km Driving time 124.3 h Pace: slow 1,094.1 kWh Airports ULN
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Ulaanbaatar, the capital of Mongolia, is the ideal starting point for any road trip through the country. The city is home to many historical monuments, cultural sites, and breathtaking natural wonders. From the city, visitors can explore the vast Mongolian steppe, visit the ancient Buddhist monasteries, go horseback riding across the grasslands, and take part in traditional nomadic activities. The closest international airport to Ulaanbaatar is Chinggis Khaan International Airport (ULN). Visitors can rent a car at the airport to start their Mongolian road trip. There are many attractions in the city that are worth a visit, such as the Gandan Monastery, the Terelj National Park, and the Sukhbaatar Square. The Zaisan Memorial, located on a hill overlooking the city, offers stunning views of the city and surrounding mountains. The National History Museum and the Bogd Khan Palace Museum are also great places to learn more about Mongolia’s rich culture and history. Ulaanbaatar is a great place to start any Mongolian road trip. From here, visitors can explore the country’s vast grasslands, visit ancient Buddhist monasteries, and experience the traditional nomadic lifestyle. With its many attractions, Ulaanbaatar makes the perfect starting point for an unforgettable Mongolian road trip.

1 Ulaanbaatar - Mandalgovi

Distance 266 km Driving time 3.5 h Pace: fast 79.8 kWh View map Itinerary
dining venues interesting  historic site accommodation options junction of road trips
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Get ready for an exciting road trip from Ulaanbaatar to Mandalgovi! This 266 km journey will take you less than 4 hours, and you’ll get to see some of the most beautiful and interesting places in Mongolia. Start your trip in Ulaanbaatar and make sure to visit the Gandan Monastery, one of the most important Buddhist monasteries in Mongolia. Then, enjoy the picturesque landscape as you drive towards Mandalgovi. Once you get there, you can explore the ruins of the old Mandalgovi Monastery, which was built in the 17th century. Admire the impressive architecture and learn about the history of this place. Afterwards, take a stroll around the nearby Mandalgovi Market, where you can buy handmade souvenirs and local products. This is just one of the stages of a larger tour, and more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route is available in the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, get ready for an unforgettable road trip experience!

2 Mandalgovi - Dalanzadgad

Distance 305 km Driving time 4.0 h Pace: fast 91.6 kWh View map Itinerary
dining venues scenic road attractive landscape junction of road trips
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Embark on an unforgettable road trip starting in Mandalgovi, Mongolia and ending in Dalanzadgad! This 307 km journey will take you less than 4 hours, but you'll want to take your time to enjoy the picturesque landscapes and scenic roads. Along the way, you'll get to explore some of the most interesting places in both Mandalgovi and Dalanzadgad. In Mandalgovi, be sure to visit the ruins of the ancient Manla Castle, the beautiful Manla Temple, and the stunning Manla Monument. And in Dalanzadgad, you can explore the unique Gobi Desert, the historic Tsagaan Suvarga, and the majestic Yoliin Am Gorge. For more information on attractions, accommodation, restaurants, and campsites along the route, check out the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, get ready for an unforgettable road trip!

3 Dalanzadgad - Sevrei

Distance 301 km Driving time 8.8 h Pace: slow 69.2 kWh View map Itinerary
4WD recommended stretches of gravel road dining venues scenic road limited number of petrol stations junction of road trips attractive landscape
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Embark on a remarkable road trip from Dalanzadgad, Mongolia to Sevrei and experience the beauty of the Gobi Desert! This 185 km journey will take you fewer than 8 hours and you will get the chance to explore some of the most interesting places in the area. A 4WD car is advisable for this route and you should be aware that there may not be any gas stations along the way. As you drive, be sure to take in the stunning scenery and keep your eyes peeled for any interesting attractions. Your first stop should be the Yolyn Am Gorge, a deep ravine with a stunning ice canyon. You can also explore the Khongoryn Els sand dunes, which are some of the highest in the Gobi Desert. You should also take the time to visit the Flaming Cliffs, a unique rock formation with red-orange hues. Finally, the Bayanzag Flaming Cliffs, also known as the “Red Valley” are a must-see. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your journey!

4 Sevrei - Gurvantes

Distance 173 km Driving time 4.0 h Pace: modest 45.0 kWh View map Itinerary
4WD recommended stretches of gravel road scenic road limited number of petrol stations
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Embark on an unforgettable journey from Sevrei to Gurvantes through the Gobi Desert! This 192 km drive will take you fewer than 5 hours, and you will be mesmerized by the incredible views of the desert. We recommend taking a 4WD car for this journey, and be aware that there may be limited gas stations along the route. As you drive, take in the beauty of the scenic road and the desert landscape. Make sure to take some time to explore the Gobi Desert and its unique attractions. From sand dunes to the Flaming Cliffs, there is so much to see and do. Stop by Yolyn Am, the stunning canyon with a river running through it, and Khongor Sand Dunes, the largest sand dunes in the Gobi Desert. When you arrive in Gurvantes, you will be rewarded with the stunning views of the mountain range. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, get ready to explore the Gobi Desert and have an unforgettable journey!

5 Gurvantes - Bayanlig

Distance 178 km Driving time 5.8 h Pace: slow 41.0 kWh View map Itinerary
4WD recommended stretches of gravel road limited number of petrol stations scenic road
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Get ready for an amazing journey through the stunning Gobi Desert! Starting in Gurvantes, you will drive 178 km in fewer than 5 hours to reach Bayanlig. As you drive, make sure to take in the beauty of the desert, as well as the majestic mountain ranges. A 4WD car is recommended for this stage, and make sure to check the availability of gas stations along the way. You will find plenty of attractions in the Gobi Desert, such as the Yolyn Am Canyon and the Flaming Cliffs of Bayanzag. There are also plenty of accommodation options, restaurants and campsites along the route, which you can find in the itinerary of this stage. So, get ready for an unforgettable road trip through the Gobi Desert!

6 Bayanlig - Bogd

Distance 107 km Driving time 3.3 h Pace: slow 24.5 kWh View map Itinerary
4WD recommended stretches of gravel road limited number of petrol stations
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Are you ready for an unforgettable road trip? Start your journey in Bayanlig, Mongolia, and drive 107 kilometers to Bogd. This journey will take around 5 hours, so it's best to start early in the morning to make the most of your trip. It's advisable to have a 4WD car for this route as there may not be many gas stations along the way. During your journey, you'll come across some of the most interesting places to visit. In Bayanlig, be sure to visit the ancient ruins of Zuun Mod and the nearby Buddhist temple. As you drive further, you'll come across the Khar Us Lake, the largest freshwater lake in Mongolia, and the beautiful Tsagaan Nuur Lake. In the end, you'll reach Bogd, the home of the Bogd Khan Winter Palace Museum, which is a must-see. For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and get ready for an amazing road trip!

7 Bogd - Bayankhongor

Distance 123 km Driving time 5.0 h Pace: slow 28.2 kWh View map Itinerary
4WD recommended stretches of gravel road limited number of petrol stations
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Embark on a thrilling 126 km road trip from Bogd, Mongolia to Bayankhongor! This route takes you through some of the most incredible landscapes of the country, which can be experienced in just under 5 hours. A 4WD car is advisable to drive this section, and make sure to fill up your tank beforehand as there might be a lack of gas stations along the way. On this journey, you will come across the fascinating Bogd Khan Mountain, the highest mountain in Mongolia, and the nearby Yolyn Am, a spectacular mountain valley with a glacier. The picturesque Ongiin Khiid Monastery, located by the Ongi River, is also a must-see. The journey culminates in Bayankhongor, a city known for its amazing natural beauty and cultural attractions. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants and campsites along the route, you can check the Itinerary of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and get ready for a memorable adventure!

8 Bayankhongor - Altai

Distance 388 km Driving time 10.6 h Pace: slow 89.3 kWh View map Itinerary
dining venues scenic road
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Embark on an amazing road trip from Bayankhongor to Altai! This 391 km drive will take you less than 7 hours, and you will be rewarded with stunning views of picturesque landscapes and a scenic road. This stage is part of a larger tour, so make sure to take in all the sights along the way. You will also have the opportunity to visit some UNESCO Heritage sites. During your journey, make sure to take plenty of photos to capture the beauty of the Mongolian countryside. You can also find more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route in the "Itinerary" of this stage. Get ready for an unforgettable experience!

9 Altai - Darvi

Distance 233 km Driving time 2.7 h Pace: fast 69.9 kWh View map Itinerary
dining venues scenic road
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Are you ready for an exciting road trip from Altai to Darvi? This 233km journey will take you through some of the most beautiful and picturesque landscapes Mongolia has to offer. The drive will take less than 3 hours, so you can take your time to admire the stunning scenery. As you travel through the majestic Altai Mountains, be sure to take in the stunning views of the rolling hills, lush forests, and snow-capped peaks. You'll also have the chance to explore the area's rich cultural heritage, from its traditional villages to its ancient Buddhist monasteries. Your journey will continue through the lush grasslands of Darvi, where you can spot wild horses, yaks, and other wildlife. The town of Darvi itself is a charming place, with its cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, and traditional markets. No matter where you decide to stop along the way, you can be sure that you'll have plenty of opportunities to explore and experience the beauty of Mongolia. Remember to keep an eye out for the scenic road, as you make your way from Altai to Darvi. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to check out the Itinerary for this stage of the journey. Enjoy your road trip!

10 Darvi - Khovd

Distance 231 km Driving time 4.0 h Pace: modest 60.1 kWh View map Itinerary
dining venues
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Start your Mongolian road trip in Darvi and drive to Khar Us Nuur, one of the largest lakes in Mongolia, 183 km away and a driving time of fewer than 3 hours. Along the way, you will pass through the stunning landscapes of the Altai Mountains, where you can take a break to admire the beautiful views and take pictures. Once you reach Khar Us Nuur, you can visit the lake and admire its beauty. There are also many activities to do in the area such as horseback riding, fishing, and bird watching. You can also visit the nearby ancient rock paintings, which are believed to be thousands of years old. Continue your journey to Khovd, the capital of the Khovd province. Here, you can visit the local museum and learn more about the region's history. You can also take a stroll around the city and explore the local markets and shops. This is just one of the many stages of your Mongolian road trip. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your journey!

11 Khovd - Ulaangom

Distance 249 km Driving time 5.9 h Pace: modest 64.7 kWh View map Itinerary
4WD recommended limited number of petrol stations dining venues scenic road junction of road trips
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Embark on an exciting road trip from Khovd to Ulaangom! This 242km stretch of road, taking less than 7 hours to complete, is a must-do for any road-tripper. The drive is best done in a 4WD car, and keep an eye out for the stunning scenery along the way. Be aware that there may be a lack of gas stations, so be sure to fill up before you leave. As you travel, you'll be able to explore some of the most interesting places in Mongolia, including Khovd, Uliastai, Ulaangom, and more. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to check out the Itinerary for this stage of your journey. Get ready for an unforgettable experience!

12 Ulaangom - Turuun

Distance 190 km Driving time 3.7 h Pace: modest 49.4 kWh View map Itinerary
dining venues scenic road junction of road trips
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Are you ready for an exciting road trip? Start your adventure in Ulaangom, Mongolia and drive to Turuun in less than 5 hours. The 268 km journey will take you through some of the most stunning Mongolian landscapes. Take your time to admire the breathtaking views and snap some amazing photos. On the way, make sure to stop in the Uvs Province, a place of outstanding natural beauty. Here you can explore the Uvs Nuur basin, the largest lake in Mongolia, and the surrounding mountains. Continue your journey and make a stop in Khovd, a city located in the western part of Mongolia. Here you can visit the Khovd Museum and learn more about the region's history and culture. Finally, you will reach Turuun, the capital of the Khovsgol Province. Make sure to visit the National Park and admire the magnificent views of the surrounding mountains. For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check out the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!

13 Turuun - Tes

Distance 110 km Driving time 2.2 h Pace: modest 28.7 kWh View map Itinerary
4WD recommended stretches of gravel road
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Are you ready for a thrilling road trip from Turuun to Tes? This 110 km journey will take you less than 4 hours and is best experienced in a 4WD car. Along the way, you'll visit some of the most interesting places in Mongolia. In Turuun, you'll find the Ulaan Tsutgalan Waterfall, one of the most beautiful sights in the country. You'll also take in the stunning views of the surrounding landscape as you drive through the rolling hills of the countryside. As you approach Tes, you'll be able to explore the amazing Khar Nuur Lake and the surrounding area. Here, you'll find a variety of wildlife, including elk, deer, and wild horses. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check out the Itinerary of this stage. Enjoy your journey!

14 Tes - Tsagaan Lake

Distance 568 km Driving time 24.8 h Pace: slow 130.7 kWh View map Itinerary
4WD recommended stretches of gravel road limited number of petrol stations
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Embark on a thrilling adventure with a road trip from Tes, Mongolia to Tsagaan Lake! This 592km journey will take you fewer than 24 hours, so make sure you have a reliable 4WD car to make the most of this journey. Along the way, you will discover the most interesting places, like the Gobi Gurvansaikhan National Park, the Flaming Cliffs, and the Yol Valley. Make sure to keep an eye out for gas stations, as they may be scarce along the way. Don't forget to stop at the Tsagaan Lake to marvel at its beauty and serenity! For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check out the "Itinerary" of this stage. Happy travels!

15 Tsagaan Lake - Khatgal

Distance 284 km Driving time 11.4 h Pace: slow 65.4 kWh View map Itinerary
4WD recommended stretches of gravel road dining venues scenic road attractive landscape
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Embark on an unforgettable road trip through the stunning landscapes of Mongolia, starting in Tsagaan Lake and ending in Khatgal. This 294 km journey, which can be completed in fewer than 14 hours, will take you through Khovsgol Nuur National Park. A four-wheel drive car is recommended to make the most of this adventure. Along the way, you will be enthralled by the picturesque landscapes and the scenic roads. Make sure to take some time to explore the lakes, mountains, and forests of Khovsgol Nuur National Park. For the best experience, you can even camp in the park and get up close to nature. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check the Itinerary of this stage.

16 Khatgal - Erdenebulgan

Distance 185 km Driving time 7.2 h Pace: slow 42.6 kWh View map Itinerary
4WD recommended stretches of gravel road limited number of petrol stations dining venues scenic road attractive landscape
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Embark on a thrilling 289km road-trip starting in Khatgal, Mongolia and ending in Erdenebulgan. This journey will take you less than 9 hours, so make sure to enjoy the scenic road. A 4WD car is advisable for this section, as there may be a lack of gas stations. Along the way, be sure to visit some of the most interesting places like the Khatgal Monastery, the beautiful Lake Khövsgöl, and the impressive Tsagaan Nuur Lake. Don’t miss out on the views of the rolling hills and the stunning landscapes. Once you reach Erdenebulgan, be sure to check out the Erdenebulgan Monastery and the nearby Khutag-Öndör Nature Reserve. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage.

17 Erdenebulgan - Badrah

Distance 83 km Driving time 4.3 h Pace: slow 19.1 kWh View map Itinerary
4WD recommended stretches of gravel road dining venues scenic road limited number of petrol stations
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Are you ready for a unique road trip experience through Erdenebulgan and Badrah? This 83 km journey will take you fewer than 5 hours and is sure to be an adventure you won't soon forget. With winding roads and breathtaking views, it's best to take the journey in a 4WD car. Be aware that there may be few gas stations along the way, so be sure to fill up before you set out. Erdenebulgan is a small town situated in the Khangai Mountains and is home to a variety of attractions. From ancient monasteries to colorful markets, you're sure to find something to spark your interest. Badrah, the final destination of this road trip, is a remote village that is known for its beautiful scenery. With lush forests and crystal-clear rivers, it's the perfect place to take a break and explore. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to check out the Itinerary of this stage. Get ready for an unforgettable road trip experience!

18 Badrah - Erdenet

Distance 257 km Driving time 3.9 h Pace: fast 77.1 kWh View map Itinerary
dining venues
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Embark on an exciting road trip from Badrah, Mongolia to Erdenet! The 257km journey will take you fewer than 4 hours, so you’ll have plenty of time to explore the area. Start off by visiting the Badrah Temple Complex, a stunning Buddhist monastery dating back to 1777. Afterward, drive to the Noyon Mountain and take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys. Then, make your way to Tsagaan Nuur, a stunning lake that’s perfect for swimming, fishing, and boating. Continue on to the ancient city of Erdenet and explore its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning architecture. For a truly unique experience, visit the Erdenet Mining Museum and learn about the city’s famous copper and molybdenum mines. To make the most of your journey, check out the “Itinerary” of this stage for more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route. Get ready for an unforgettable adventure from Badrah to Erdenet!

19 Erdenet - Terelj

Distance 447 km Driving time 7.2 h Pace: fast 134.0 kWh View map Itinerary
dining venues scenic road accommodation options interesting  historic site
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Get ready for an amazing road trip from Erdenet to Terelj! This 453 km journey will take you fewer than 7 hours to complete and will take you through some of the most beautiful landscapes Mongolia has to offer. As you drive, take some time to appreciate the stunning views of the rolling hills, lush forests, and rivers. Along the way, be sure to stop and explore some of the most interesting places in the area. In Erdenet, visit the Erdenet Mining Corporation, the largest copper mine in Asia. You can also check out the Erdene Zuu Monastery, a 16th-century Buddhist monastery, and the nearby Ganzorig Park. As you continue your journey, you'll pass through the villages of Bayan-Uul and Ulaanbaatar. When you reach Terelj, take some time to explore the Gorkhi-Terelj National Park. You can take a hike to Turtle Rock, explore the Yestii Hot Springs, and visit the Aryabal Meditation Temple. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the Itinerary of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!

20 Terelj - Ulaanbaatar

Distance 78 km Driving time 2.0 h Pace: slow 18.0 kWh View map Itinerary
dining venues scenic road interesting  historic site accommodation options junction of road trips
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Are you ready for an unforgettable road trip starting in Terelj, Mongolia? This stage of your journey will take you through the breathtaking Gorkhi-Terelj National Park, located just 78km away from Ulaanbaatar. The drive will take you less than 2 hours and you will be mesmerized by the picturesque landscapes, historical sites and scenic roads. Once you reach the Gorkhi-Terelj National Park, you can explore the Turtle Rock, the Yestii Hot Springs and the Manzushir Monastery. The Turtle Rock is a unique granite formation that looks like a turtle and is a popular tourist attraction. The Yestii Hot Springs are known for their healing properties and the Manzushir Monastery was built in the 18th century and is home to many old Buddhist artifacts. After you’ve explored the park, make your way to Ulaanbaatar. Along the way, you can visit the Genghis Khan Equestrian Statue, the largest equestrian statue in the world. For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the ‘Itinerary’ of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and head out into the wild!

  Ulaanbaatar

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Ulaanbaatar, the capital of Mongolia, is the perfect ending point for any road trip named "Mongolia Road Trip". Situated in the northern part of the country, Ulaanbaatar is the largest city in Mongolia and home to a range of interesting sights and attractions. One of the most popular attractions in Ulaanbaatar is the National Museum of Mongolian History, which houses a diverse collection of artifacts and exhibits. This museum provides an insight into the rich history of Mongolia and its people. Other popular attractions in Ulaanbaatar include the Gandantegchinlen Monastery, the Zaisan Memorial, and the Winter Palace of the Bogd Khan. If you’re looking to get out of the city, Ulaanbaatar is surrounded by a range of natural attractions as well. From hiking in the Gorkhi-Terelj National Park to exploring the Terelj Valley, there are plenty of options for outdoor activities. Travellers flying into Ulaanbaatar can arrive at Chinggis Khaan International Airport (ULN). From here, it is just a short drive to the city centre. Alternatively, travellers can take a taxi or public transport. Ulaanbaatar offers something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in exploring the city’s culture, or getting out into nature, this Mongolian capital is the perfect place to end your "Mongolia Road Trip".

Mongolia Road Trip at a glance

Before you set off

Embark on the Mongolia Road Trip, a captivating 4,834km odyssey commencing from Ulaanbaatar that beckons adventurers through Mongolia's heartland. With a recommended span of at least 21 days, this journey promises an extensive immersion into the country's natural wonders and cultural landmarks.

Key Destinations and Top Sights:

  • Ulaanbaatar: The vibrant capital city of Mongolia, where traditional and modern life converge. Don't miss the Gandantegchinlen Monastery and the National Museum of Mongolia.
  • Mandalgovi: Venture through this picturesque town set amidst the Gobi Desert's undulating hills and grasslands, providing a great introduction to rural Mongolian life.
  • Altai Mountains: A paradise for nature lovers, offering activities such as trekking, horse riding, and eagle hunting demonstrations. The region is home to the impressive Potanin Glacier, Mongolia’s largest glacier.
  • Gurvantes Monastery: Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this monastery serves as a testament to Mongolia's rich Buddhist heritage and offers insight into its monastic traditions.
  • Khatgal Monastery: Another historical gem recognized by UNESCO, located near the pristine Lake Khövsgöl, known as the `Blue Pearl of Mongolia.`

Best Time to Go:

The optimal time for this Road Trip is from May to October. During these months, travelers can enjoy milder weather, experience the lush landscapes following the spring rains, and partake in traditional festivals such as Naadam in July.

Potential Risks:

  • Road Conditions: Expect a mix of paved and unpaved Roads, with many rural tracks that can be challenging, especially after inclement weather, requiring a solid 4x4 vehicle and experienced driving skills.
  • Remote Areas: Given Mongolia's sparse population density, be prepared for long distances without services. It's critical to have a well-maintained vehicle, extra fuel, food, water, and emergency supplies.

Interesting Facts for Roadtrippers:

  • Mongolia boasts one of the world's lowest population densities, offering an unparalleled sense of freedom and solitude.
  • Over 30% of the population still leads a nomadic or semi-nomadic lifestyle, and travelers might have the opportunity to experience this way of life firsthand.
  • The traditional dwelling of Mongolian nomads, the ger (yurt), is both a cultural icon and an example of practical, sustainable living.

A good choice for:

The Mongolia Road Trip is more than just a Scenic Drive; it's a passage through time and terrain. From the bustling streets of Ulaanbaatar to the serene expanse of the Gobi Desert and the majestic Altai Mountains, this journey is a testament to the enduring spirit of Mongolia. With careful preparation, this Road Trip can be a life-affirming experience that balances raw adventure with cultural enlightenment, all within a reasonable budget.

Facts for safer driving in Mongolia

drink drive limit drink drive limit 0.5
max speed urban max speed urban 60 km/h
max speed rural max speed rural 110 km/h
max speed highway max speed highway 130 km/h
headlights at daytime headlights at daytime off
fire extinguisher fire extinguisher no
tolls tolls no
seat belts seat belts yes

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