Arkhangai

Introducing Arkhangai

Arkhangai is all about wild nature, nomads and downhome hospitality. The magic of this wild aimag reveals itself at every turn, from sunsets viewed from the top of volcanic craters to rushing streams where fish seem to leap onto your hook. It’s also a great place for the classic ‘Mongolian experience’, with many opportunities to visit nomad camps, go horse riding and photograph the odd yak caravan plodding slowly along ancient trails.

Arkhangai lies mostly on the northern slope of the Khangai mountains, an undulating range with several peaks more than 3300m. The mountains are by no means impenetrable and it’s possible to travel through the passes on horse and jeep trails to Bayankhongor aimag. In winter, nomads use the passes on traditional otors (treks) to find grazing land for their animals.

Travellers often hurry through the centre of Arkhangai on their way to Terkhiin Tsagaan Nuur. With a bike or horse, however, there are plenty of valleys and remote trails to explore both north and south of the main road. You barely need this book to find beautiful and interesting places; just head off into the hills and see what you can discover. Along the way you’ll be invited into plenty of gers for cups of airag and hot tea to keep you full until you reach the next valley.

Last updated: Feb 17, 2009