Mongolia Travel Blog & News

Southern Mongolia is widely known for its Gobi Desert, one of the world’s unique ecosystems and best-kept secrets. This unique ecosystem is renowned for its stunning natural formations, as well as real dinosaur fossils and endemic flora and fauna. No trip to Mongolia is complete without a visit to this incredible region. But what makes the Gobi Desert so special? Check out our list of 20 interesting facts about the Gobi Desert to learn more. From its harsh climate to its surprising biodiversity, there's so much to discover in this remarkable landscape.

According to the gender gap report written by WEF, Mongolia has ranked 70th out of the 146 countries that have been studied.   In 2006, we were ranked 46th. What has happened over the decade that has worsened the country’s ranking by whole 24 places?

A ger camp, also known as a yurt camp, is a type of accommodation commonly found in Mongolia and other parts of Central Asia. Gers are traditional portable dwellings used by nomadic peoples in the region for centuries. These round, felt-covered tents are typically constructed with wooden frames and are designed to be easily dismantled and transported. A ger camp consists of several gers arranged in a campsite setting. Each ger serves as a guest accommodation, providing a cozy and comfortable space for travelers to stay. Staying in a ger camp offers travelers a unique opportunity to experience traditional Mongolian hospitality and immerse themselves in the nomadic way of life.  Ger camps vary in size and amenities, ranging from basic setups with shared facilities to more luxurious options with private bathrooms and additional services. They typically have a stove in the middle and a couple cozy beds inside. You can look up at the sky through a window in the top while you’re cozy in bed. They rarely have a bathroom inside, though, so late-night bathroom trips will require you to leave your cozy ger.   The Gobi Desert stands as one of the most captivating regions within Mongolia. Optimal times for visiting Mongolia include the summer months spanning from June to Late September, where you can really experience the Mongolian Desert.  The vast dunes spreading out around you will put you in awe. Seeing the life that can survive in the harsh environment is exciting, and there are a number of natural features to visit. There are also fossils and tours where you can see where dinosaur eggs were first found! Choosing a ger camp can be difficult though. Each year there are more to choose from in the Gobi region. Here are three of the top choices for staying in a ger camp in the Gobi Desert.

Ulaanbaatar, the bustling capital of Mongolia, is a city of contrasts where ancient traditions meet modernity. This vibrant metropolis offers an exciting array of culinary delights and trendy spots to enjoy a drink. If you're planning a trip to Ulaanbaatar and wondering where to eat and drink, here’s a comprehensive guide to the best places that cater to all tastes and preferences.  

When people think of Mongolia, they probably think immediately of Chinggis, or Ghengis, Khan, the famous conqueror. They may also think of the Gobi Desert, or the vastness of the countryside. For travelers interested in visiting exciting and remote spots, Mongolia is a great destination. Unfortunately, you may not know anyone who has ever been. It can be hard to figure out where to go in Mongolia. Lucky for you, I have compiled a list of where to visit in Mongolia, and things to see in Mongolia that will not disappoint you. 

Baron Roman von Ungern-Sternberg sounds like the kind of guy Mongolian parents can use as a threat for misbehaving children. His deeds are truly the stuff of nightmares – murdering deserting soldiers, keeping wolves in his attic for his enemies, and burning people alive inside of haystacks. Without him, however, there might be no independent Mongolia today.

Surviving two destructions and centuries of rejection, Erdene Zuu is one of the oldest Buddhist temples in Mongolia, probably in East Asia. The building of the temple was ordered by the Abtai Sain Khan- grandfather of Zanabazar the Great when the Tibetan Buddhism was declared as the main religion of Mongolia in 1586. For Mongolians, who employed nomadic lifestyle, this kind of building or generally anything that stays in one place was not that common. So, the temple has naturally become the religious center, thus the heart of the Mongolia. The geographical situation was carefully thought out too, it’s built in Kharkhorin- near the old city of Karakorum.

Among the skyscrapers and shopping malls, there sits a white building and a temple in a small clearing. The mountain stands behind it, protecting the city. Not far behind is the mighty Tuul River. The white building is by todays standards, a modest building. The temple is beautiful, but dwarfed by the 6-story mall nearby. However, if you were a lucky visitor to Ich Khirie, as Ulaanbaatar was known then, you would be standing near the largest building in town, if you could even get close enough. This is the home of the Bogd Khan.

Social responsibility and supporting local economy has been the core philosophy of Selena Travel since our foundation. Selena Travel now supports local artisans and low income families through our recent cooperation with Mary and Martha`s Fair and Ethical Trade shop.

Just above China and south of Russia, Mongolia is a country tucked away in northern Asia. It’s graced with historical sites, stunning landscapes, and plenty to do for travelers. You can trek on a camel through the Gobi Desert, observe eagle hunters practicing their craft, and visit some of the last nomadic reindeer herders in the world. Visiting a remote area of the world can come with its fair share of challenges. So, we’ve put together five tips for travelling in Mongolia that will help you navigate the unfamiliar terrain on your journey.