Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Western Mongolia
POP 307,200 / AREA 191,000 SQ KM
Why Go?
Raw, rugged and remote, this off-the-beaten-track region has for centuries been isolated -
both geographically and culturally - from the Mongol heartland. With its glacier-wrapped
mountains, shimmering salt lakes and the hardy culture of nomads, falconry and cattle
rustling, western Mongolia is, in many ways, a timeless slice of Central Asia.
Squeezed between Russia, Kazakhstan, China and the rest of Mongolia, this region has
long been a patchwork of peoples including ethnic Kazakhs, Dörvöds, Khotons, Myan-
gads and Khalkh Mongols. Traditional arts such as
khöömii
throat singing and eagle hunt-
ing are still practised here, as they have been for thousands of years.
The wild landscape creates fabulous opportunities for trekkers and climbers on peaks
that rise to over 4000m. If that sounds too extreme for you, then just pick a lake, pitch a
tent and have yourself a camping trip you'll never forget.
When to Go
Mar
Kazakh families celebrate Navrus (spring festival) with traditional games and feast-
ing.
