Gorkhi-Terelj National Park
Ulaanbaatar, MNG
Known for its picturesque alpine scenery, interesting rock formations, and plentiful outdoor activities, Gorkhi-Terelj National Park is one of the most popular attractions in Mongolia. Located about 43 miles (70 kilometers) northeast of Ulaanbaatar, it’s also one of the most accessible national parks in the country.
A small southern portion of Gorkhi-Terelj National Park has been developed for tourists, with amenities such as tourist ger camps, restaurants, and souvenir shops. Popular ways to enjoy the park include hiking, rock climbing, swimming, rafting, horseback riding, and bird-watching.
Many travelers visit as part of a day or overnight tour, often combined with a visit to a nomadic family and a stop at the Chinggis Khaan Statue Complex. Those with more time can embark on multi-day tours and stop at other parks in the area, including Bogd Khan Mountain National Park and Hustai National Park. Those with a week or more can go on extended adventures covering several regions in Mongolia, such as Central Mongolia, the Altai Mountains, or the Orkhon Valley.
Gorkhi-Terelj National Park is ideal for those short on time who want to experience the epic landscapes of Mongolia.
Don’t forget your camera to capture stunning vistas throughout the park.
Bring comfortable shoes, sun protection, and plenty of water.
If visiting in the summer, bring insect repellent.
Many travelers visit Gorkhi-Terelj National Park as part of a guided tour. It’s also possible to take public transport to the park. Two buses depart daily from Ulaanbaatar and take about 2.5 hours to arrive at Terelj Village.
Gorkhi-Terelj National Park can be visited year-round. When to visit depends on what you’re looking to do. Hiking, rock climbing, swimming, rafting, horseback riding, and bird-watching are popular in spring and summer. In the winter, it’s possible to go cross-country skiing and dogsledding inside the park. Visitors hoping to explore more of the vast park should allot more than just one day here.
Popular attractions in the park include Turtle Rock and Old Man Reading a Book (Praying Lama Rock), both resembling their namesakes and easy to reach from the tourist camps. Also popular are Khagiin Khar Lake, a glacial lake 50 miles (80 kilometers) upstream from the tourist camps, and Yestii Hot Water Springs, another 11 miles (18 kilometers) farther upstream.
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