Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
forests of the
Develiin Aral Nature Reserve
, a 16km stretch along the fast-flowing
Khovd Gol.
TOP OF CHAPTER
Üüreg Nuur
Large and beautiful
Üüreg Nuur
(GPS: N 50°05.236', E 091°04.587')
, at an elevation of
1425m, is surrounded by stunning 3000m-plus peaks, including
Tsagaan Shuvuut Uul
(3496m), which are part of the Uvs Nuur Strictly Protected Area (
Click here
)
. The fresh-
water lake has some unidentified minerals and is designated as 'saltwater' on some
maps, so it's best to boil or purify all water from the lake. There is a freshwater well on
the southeastern edge of the lake near some deserted buildings.
The lake is great for swimming (albeit a little chilly) and locals say there are plenty of
fish. One added attraction is that it's one of the few mosquito-free lakes in the region.
You should buy your T3000-permit at the Strictly Protected Areas Office in Ulaangom
(
Click here
)
, although there is no one here to check whether or not you have one.
Camping spots abound by the lake shore. The only tourist facilities are about 25km
southeast of the lake, at the beautifully situated, but rather overpriced
OT Tour Camp
(
8684 0561; GPS: N 49°56.724', E 91°16.348'; with/without meals T99,000/42,000, tent pitch
T15,000)
. The gers here are spotlessly clean, spacious and come with fabulous meadow
views. Showers are also clean and have sit-down toilets. There's good hiking to be done
in the surrounding hills, and the lake is within striking distance. The camp can arrange
horse treks if given a few days notice.
TOP OF CHAPTER
Kharkhiraa Uul & Türgen Uul &
The twin peaks of Kharkhiraa Uul (4037m) and Türgen Uul (3965m), which dominate
the western part of the aimag, are vital sources of the Uvs Nuur and the mountains are
also part of the Uvs Nuur Strictly Protected Area (
Click here
)
.
In summer, the area has some excellent hiking opportunities and the chance to meet
Khoton nomads who graze their flocks in here. Khoton people are unusual in being the
only ethnic Mongols to practice Islam.
