Lonely Planet Mongolia

Mongolia's nomadic culture is famous visitors can sleep in a herder's ger (traditional felt yurt), help round up the sheep, ride horses and simply 'get back to nature'. The legacy of Chinggis Khaan and resurgent nationalist pride sharpens the experience. A culture of tremendous hospitality makes locals more accessible. In a world beset by locks and gates, it's refreshing to meet people willing to open their doors to strangers. When travelling in Mongolia, however, keep in mind that guests are expected to reciprocate any forms of generosity, so when visiting families, always have a ready supply of gifts for the kids.

Not Just Grass & Horses

Once half nomadic, Mongolia is changing rapidly as its citizens flock to Ulaanbaatar and other big cities for work and study opportunities. The capital in particular is changing at a dizzying pace and many Mongolians have bought wholeheartedly into the global economy, capitalism and consumerism. Whether they are rural or urban, Mongolians take pride in their country's democratic institutions of civic participation. Mongolia is eager to be part of the global community, sending its troops on peacekeeping missions around the globe and promoting itself as a country to host northeast Asian peace talks; visiting now puts you in the middle of these dramatic transformations.

Camels in Altai Tavan Bogd National Park | STEFAN CRUYSBERGHS / 500PX

By Michael Kohn, Writer

Over a period of 20 years I've explored every corner of Mongolia as a travel writer and reporter, writing about the history of Buddhism in the Gobi Desert, searching for cattle rustlers in northwestern Mongolia and witnessing ancient shamanic ceremonies in the east. Most of the time, I simply love criss-crossing the country, enjoying the untouched landscapes, clear rivers and ger-dotted valleys. Each trip brings new adventures and unexpected encounters. While the nature and fascinating culture of Mongolia are things to treasure, my love for Mongolia is mainly for its hospitable and generous people always there to welcome strangers, to share news, gossip and jokes, and to show me the best of the human spirit.