Editor’s Note: This CNN Travel series is, or was, sponsored by the country it highlights. CNN retains full editorial control over subject matter, reporting, and frequency of the articles and videos within the sponsorship, in compliance with our policy.
Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia CNN — Mongolia has traditionally been overlooked by travelers due to its remote location and short summer season. However, with the country’s efforts to open up to tourism by improving entry conditions for international visitors and upgrading its infrastructure, 2023 presents an opportune time to visit. Here are 10 compelling reasons why travelers should consider planning their dream trip to Mongolia now.
The Mongolian government has declared 2023 through 2025 as the “Years to Visit Mongolia.” As a result, citizens from an additional 34 countries can now visit Mongolia visa-free until the end of 2025. This includes several European countries, Australia, and New Zealand, bringing the total number of countries and territories on the visa-exempt list to 61. Visit the official website to view the full list.
After numerous delays and challenges, the newly constructed Chinggis Khaan International Airport finally opened in the summer of 2021. With the capacity to handle around 3 million passengers per year, double that of the old airport, and the addition of 500 new aircraft parking spaces, the airport contributes to the country’s efforts to boost tourism. Budget flights to Hong Kong from EZNIS Airways have already resumed, and talks are underway to reinstate direct flights to the United States.
The recently inaugurated Chinggis Khaan Museum offers visitors a captivating journey through Mongolia’s turbulent history. The museum showcases over 10,000 artifacts spanning 2,000 years, illustrating the rise and fall of the Mongol empire. The exhibits are spread across eight floors, including six permanent halls and two temporary exhibition spaces. Free guided tours in English are available every Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
When one thinks of Mongolia, music festivals and conservation-focused art installations in the heart of vast deserts are unlikely to come to mind. However, festivals such as Playtime, Spirit of Gobi, INTRO Electronic Music Festival, and the Kharkhorum 360 Visual Art & Music Experience are changing this perception. These events bring together international bands, DJs, and musicians with Mongolia’s own diverse mix of rappers, bands, and folk singers, making the country a hidden gem for festival enthusiasts.
The annual Naadam event has always been a compelling reason to visit Mongolia, but with the recent celebration of its 100th anniversary, 2023 marks an even more special occasion to attend. Originating from the days of Genghis Khan, who used horse racing, wrestling, and archery as training for his warriors, Naadam became an official national holiday a century ago. Today, the festival held in Ulaanbaatar’s National Sports Stadium offers an array of cultural and sporting activities, with the opening ceremony being one of the most sought-after events.
Thanks to individuals like Altankhuyag Nergui and his archery academy, Namnaa, mounted archery is experiencing a resurgence in Mongolia. Altankhuyag Nergui is one of the sport’s most accomplished archers, and his academy provides locals with an opportunity to learn Mongolian archery techniques before taking their skills to the next level on horseback. During the summer months, students and academy members showcase their talents in weekly performances. The academy also offers intensive day-long training sessions for those seeking to try this exhilarating sport.
Another ancient tradition making a comeback in Mongolia is the Mongol bichig, the traditional Mongolian script written vertically from top to bottom and read horizontally from left to right. At the Erdenesiin Khuree Mongolian Calligraphy Center in Karakorum, visitors can learn from master calligraphist Tamir Samandbadraa Purev about this important cultural heritage. Additionally, the center features yurts filled with Tamir’s exquisite works.
Combine the release of Husqvarna’s new Norden 901 Expedition motorbike with the newly announced Eagle Hunter Tour by Nomadic Off-Road, and you have an adventure that will get your adrenaline pumping. This tour takes riders on a thrilling 1,700-kilometer journey from Ulaanbaatar to Bayan-Ulgii, where they will have the opportunity to meet Mongolia’s renowned eagle hunters. Demand for Nomadic Off-Road’s tours is high, so book early to secure your spot.
For 18 years, professional musher Joel Rauzy has been leading dogsledding tours across the frozen Lake Khuvsgul. Winter in Mongolia offers a unique experience with fewer crowds, lower hotel rates, and the chance to witness the enormous frozen Lake Khuvsgul. Wind of Mongolia, Rauzy’s company, provides tours where each participant is assigned their own sled and team of dogs. The itinerary includes ice fishing and interactions with nomadic families along the journey, while travelers stay in winterized yurts.
Situated in Selenge province along the Yeruu River, Yeruu Lodge is a nature lover’s haven. Founded by Norwegian entrepreneur Eirik Gulsrud Johnsen, who fell in love with Mongolia during his visit in 2017, the lodge offers a minimalist Scandinavian-style restaurant, fully equipped yurts for guests, pétanque courts, kayaks, a driving range, mountain bikes, and a yoga area. The lodge operates off-grid, relying on solar panels and thermal heating, and emphasizing sustainability by recycling glass, metal, and plastic. The lodge’s opening is scheduled for April 2023.
With its increasing appeal for adventure seekers, cultural enthusiasts, and nature lovers, Mongolia is emerging as a must-visit destination. As the country continues to improve its tourism infrastructure and accessibility, 2023 presents a golden opportunity to embark on a remarkable journey through the land of the Mongols.
Denial of responsibility! VigourTimes is an automatic aggregator of Global media. In each content, the hyperlink to the primary source is specified. All trademarks belong to their rightful owners, and all materials to their authors. For any complaint, please reach us at – [email protected]. We will take necessary action within 24 hours.
