Kaminski Anna - Mongolia Travel Guide

For most of the 20th century, Mongolia was sealed off from the world; seemingly so distant that the very name of the country became a byword for remoteness and isolation. The 21st century promises the polar opposite. As Mongolia has opened up to the world, its citizens are travelling the globe and outsiders are arriving by the planeload for business and travel opportunities. Visas are relatively easy to acquire; a handful of nationals wont even require one. Authorities see tourism as a key growth sector of the Mongolian economy and an important revenue earner for local communities. Despite the warm welcome you will receive, Mongolia is not a pleasure cruise. This is still a developing country with rudimentary infrastructure and mostly basic facilities outside the capital.

Mongolians are fully aware of the unique beauty of their country. Ask locals and they will probably start gushing about the spectacular countryside, vast steppes, rugged mountains, clear lakes and abundant wildlife and livestock. Its this true wilderness experience that many people find so appealing.

Mongolias nomadic culture is famous visitors can sleep in a traditional ger (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, its refreshing to meet people willing to open their doors to strangers.

There are few countries in the world with such a stark difference between the rural and urban populations. While nomadic Mongols live the simple life, their cousins in Ulaanbaatar are lurching headlong into the future. The capital is changing at a dizzying pace and many Mongolians have bought wholeheartedly into the global economy, capitalism and consumerism. Urban hipster or nomadic shepherd, however, both share a love of democracy. The country is often held up as a model emerging democratic state, despite being surrounded by democracy-challenged countries. Mongolia is eager to be part of the global community; by visiting you are contributing to the remarkable developments in this extraordinary land.

Mongolian boy carrying a lamb
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Why I Love Mongolia

By Daniel McCrohan, Author

If you love the outdoors, youll fall head over heels for Mongolia. I did. Whats not to love about a country thats so vast, so remote, so beautiful? How can you fail to adore the hiking, the horse trekking, the camping? You cant. But its more than just that raw, physical attraction. Centuries of nomadic living have given Mongolians a natural bond with travellers. Break down in the countryside, and the next driver to pass will stop to help. Stuck for a room, and a family can often find you a bed. And break at a herdsmans ger for directions and youll end up with tea, snacks and a fascinating glimpse into the daily routines of a remarkable culture.

See for much more.

Mongolias Top 14

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