Khögnö Khan Uul Nature Reserve

Introducing Khögnö Khan Uul Nature Reserve

Although it’s just off the main Ulaanbaatar–Kharkhorin highway, this nature reserve sees relatively few visitors. Its arid terrain of rocky semi-desert is good for short hikes and there are a few old temples to explore, both ruined and active. At the southern foot of the mountain are the ruins of Övgön Khiid (; GPS: N47° 25.561’, E103° 41.686’; admission T1000), built in 1660 and destroyed (and the monks massacred) by the armies of Zungar Galdan Bochigtu, a rival of Zanabazar’s in 1640. About 10 monks reside here in the summer months. The head lama is a charming woman who professes soothsaying abilities.

The mountain is in Bulgan aimag but most easily accessed from the Ulaanbaatar–Arvaikheer road.

The ruins of the earlier destroyed monastery (GPS: N47° 26.267’, E103° 42.527’) are a lovely 45-minute (2km) walk along a well-defined path up the valley to the right. The surroundings belong to the 46, 900-hectare Khögnö Khan Nature Reserve and you might spot ibex, wolves and many varieties of hawk. There are lots of hiking possibilities around here.

Last updated: Feb 17, 2009