Mongolia is a landlocked country in Northeast Asia, bordered by China to the south and the Russian Federation to the north. Covering approximately 1.56 million square kilometers, it is the world’s 18th-largest country by land area and one of the most sparsely populated nations, with vast open landscapes and an exceptionally low population density. Despite its immense size, Mongolia offers visitors an extraordinary sense of space, freedom, and unspoiled natural beauty.
Situated at an average elevation of about 1,580 meters (5,184 feet) above sea level, Mongolia is a country of remarkable geographical diversity. The majestic Altai Mountains dominate the western region, stretching for nearly 1,500 kilometers and including Khüiten Peak, the nation’s highest summit at 4,374 meters. In contrast, the country’s lowest point lies at Khukh Nuur in Dornod Province, approximately 560 meters above sea level. Across eastern and southern Mongolia, vast grasslands and steppes extend to the horizon, including the expansive Menen Steppe, one of the largest steppe ecosystems in Asia.
From snow-capped mountains and crystal-clear lakes to endless grasslands and the legendary Gobi Desert, Mongolia offers spectacular scenery and unforgettable outdoor adventures. Rich in nomadic traditions, unique wildlife, and centuries-old cultural heritage, Mongolia is an exceptional destination for travelers seeking authentic experiences, breathtaking landscapes, and the timeless spirit of the Eurasian steppe.
Genghis Khan's Mausoleum
The Genghis Khan's Mausoleum lies 30 kilometers south of Yijinhuoluo Qi (similar to county), 185 kilometers from Baotou. Located on Gande'er'ao altitude, with a length of 15 kilometers, width of 30 kilometers and area of 225 square kilometers, the mausoleum is made up of four magnificent palaces in the shape of Mongolian yurts, which respectively are the main palace, the east palace, the west palace and the back palace, and the four palaces are connected each other. With rounded roofs and glazed tiles inlayed golden eaves, they are very glorious and imposing. The 26 meters high main palace, with a huge sculpture of Genghis Khan in the middle of it, is the center for fete. After the ceremony of sacrificing, sports activity such as toxophily, horse race, and wrestling will be held. ow, memorial ceremony for Genghis khan is held for four times each year and March 21st of the lunar calendar is the traditional date to hold the memorial ceremony.
Zhaojun Tomb
Zhaojun Tomb is situated nine kilometers (approx. 6 miles) away from Hohhot, on the plain extending from he northern bank of the Dahei River. Also called 'green tomb' after the green grass that grows on it, the tomb is listed among the eight most popular scenic spots in Hohhot. The tomb is a large man-made earthen mound, which is 33 meters (approx. 108 feet) high. It was built to commemorate a great woman named Wang Zhaojun, who was one of the four most beautiful ladies in ancient China, and who sacrificed herself for the unity of China by marrying Khan. The tomb is famous for its spectacular scenery. The summer months are mild, and the wild flowers and grasses grow in abundance, creating a beautiful natural picture together with the towering green trees. When autumn comes in September, unlike grasses which shriveled and yellow at this time of the year, the grass growing on the tomb is still green and vigorous.
Hulun Lake
The Hulun Lake, also called the Dalai Lake, is one of the five largest freshwater lakes in China and the largest lake in the Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region. It is located in the western of Hulunbeir Prairie. With a shape of an irregular rectangle, the lake covers an area of 2,339 square kilometers. The Hulun Lake abounds in various cash fish such as carp, crucian carp, red fins, pike, and catfish and also rare white shrimp. The lake is the habitat for 241 bird species, including crane, gull, swan, wild goose, duck and lovebird, which amount to 1/5 of the total bird species in China. Since some of the species are rare, the lake is reputed as one of the few treasure houses of birds in the world. With cool climate, beautiful scenery and fresh air, the Hulun Lake is an ideal summer resort. The great sights of Observing Birds on Wulan Sea and Jumping Fish at Wulan Hillock attract numerous tourists from home and abroad. Sunbathing, lake sand bathing, fishing on the lakeside, and touring the lake by boat, along with other activities, often make the visitors indulge in pleasure without stop. Tourists can also enjoy an all-fish feast with various delicious and nourishing dishes of fish. Moreover, observing how local people catch fish under the ice during winter season is another attraction to tourists.
Mongolia is high, cold, and dry. It has an extreme continental climate with long, cold winters and short summers, during which most precipitation falls. The country averages 257 cloudless days a year, and it is usually at the center of a region of high atmospheric pressure. Precipitation is highest in the north, which averages 20 to 35 centimeters per year, and lowest in the south, which receives 10 to 20 centimeters (see fig. 5). The extreme south is the Gobi, some regions of which receive no precipitation at all in most years.
|
Month |
Jan |
Feb |
Mar |
Apr |
May |
Jun |
Jul |
Aug |
Sep |
Oct |
Nov |
Dec |
|
Temperature (Celsius) |
-4.6 |
-2.2 |
4.5 |
10.1 |
16.8 |
20.0 |
28.8 |
26.4 |
19.4 |
12.4 |
4.1 |
-2.7 |

