Things To Do
in Altay
Altai, Mongolia sits in the western highlands near the Altai Mountains, a remote region known for sweeping steppe, rugged peaks, and Kazakh nomadic culture. The landscape shifts from wide grassy plains to dramatic gorges and glacial lakes. Nomadic gers, eagle-hunting heritage, and time-honored hospitality shape daily life here.
Visitors who venture here are rewarded with star-filled skies, warm hospitality, and a sense of stepping off the beaten path.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your journey in Ulaanbaatar, where you can visit the Gandan Monastery, a vibrant center of Buddhism in Mongolia. After immersing yourself in the spiritual atmosphere, take a stroll through Sukhbaatar Square, surrounded by charming Soviet-era buildings. The fresh air of the morning will invigorate you as you prepare for your adventures ahead.
Head to the National Museum of Mongolia to learn about the rich history and culture of the Mongolian people from ancient times through the socialist period. Enjoy a traditional lunch at a local eatery, savoring some authentic Mongolian dumplings called buuz. This culinary experience will deepen your appreciation for the local culture as you mingle with the townsfolk.
As dusk falls, partake in a traditional Mongolian barbecue dinner, known as khorkhog, where mutton is cooked in hot stones. After dinner, take a leisurely walk to the Zaisan Memorial for stunning panoramic views of the city. The twinkling lights of Ulaanbaatar will create a memorable backdrop as you reflect on your first day.
Depart early for Terelj National Park, only a short drive from the capital, and immerse yourself in the breathtaking landscapes. Hike through the scenic trails, gazing at the unique rock formations and lush greenery that define this protected area. The morning sun will enrich the colors of the terrain, making for perfect photography opportunities.
After hiking, visit the Aryabal Meditation Temple, a peaceful retreat perched on a hill offering striking views of the park. Enjoy a packed lunch surrounded by nature, where the sounds of singing birds will enhance your dining experience. Participate in some outdoor activities like horseback riding or simply relax while taking in the serene atmosphere.
Settle into a cozy ger camp for the night, enjoying the traditional Mongolian accommodation experience. Share stories and laughter with fellow travelers around a warm fire, while savoring a hearty traditional meal. As the stars emerge in the night sky, take a moment to gaze upwards and feel the vastness of the Mongolian wilderness surrounding you.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| ☕Coffee or tea in a cafe | $1-3 |
| 🏨Guesthouse or budget hotel per night | $15-40 |
| 🚗Guided day tour or horseback ride | $25-60 |
| 💧Bottle of water (1.5L) | $0.5-1 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning, rugged landscapes and vast skies
- Rich Kazakh nomadic culture and eagle-hunting heritage
- Low crowds and authentic interactions with locals
- Excellent stargazing and photography opportunities
- Very remote with limited infrastructure
- Long travel times between sights and accommodations
- Limited dining and medical facilities in some areas
- Seasonal accessibility depending on weather and passes
- "Сайн байна уу?" - Hello
- "Баярлалаа" - Thank you
- "Уучлаарай" - Excuse me / Sorry
- "Та хаанаас ирсэн бэ?" - Where are you from?
- "Би ойлголоо" - I understand
Places to Visit in Altay
Visit one of these nice places.
A serene alpine lake reflecting the surrounding Altai peaks as the sun goes down.
Close-up portraits and demonstrations with local Kazakh eagle hunters.
Bustling stalls with colorful textiles, dairy products, and nomadic life.
Panoramic views over the snow-capped peaks and green valleys.
Astrophotography opportunities with minimal light pollution.
Food in Altay
Altay Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty noodle and lamb dish served with rich broth.
Must-Try!
Fried meat-filled dumplings, a popular street-food staple.
Dried curd cheese snacks often consumed on long journeys.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Local stalls selling dairy products, meat cuts, dried snacks, and bulk staples.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a warm Sain bainaa uu; use a firm handshake in formal settings.
Remove shoes before entering; ask permission before entering a ger or taking photos.
Small gifts appreciated when visiting families; present with the right hand.
Ask permission before photographing people or sacred spaces.
Respect traditional practices, especially during family gatherings or ceremonies.
Safety
Tipping in Altay
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated for good service; small tips in rural areas show gratitude.
Cash in Mongolian Tugrik is widely used; some larger towns accept cards; carry USD as backup.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with cool nights; mosquitoes in some areas; festival season; long daylight hours.
Mild days with crisp nights; harvest season; fewer crowds; good for hiking and wildlife viewing.
Very cold and windy; some roads may close; snow may limit access; best for hardy travelers.
Unpredictable weather and mud; wildflowers bloom; shorter daylight; gradually warming.
Altay at Night
Hiking in Altay
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Day hikes with expansive valley views and wildlife.
Head-of-the-range hikes and lake overlooks near western Mongolia.
Airports
How to reach Altay by plane.
Small regional airport serving Bayan-Ölgii Aimag with flights to Ulaanbaatar and limited domestic destinations.
Regional airport in Uvs Aimag, a common gateway to western Mongolia and the starting point for deeper Altai excursions.
Larger airport near Khovd city providing more flight options and longer-range connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominant community in Bayan-Ölgii; speakers of Kazakh and Mongolian; strong nomadic traditions.
Other ethnic groups living in towns and rural areas, often bilingual.
Growing presence of local guides and guesthouse staff helping visitors
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A cultural staple and popular activity for visitors in the steppe.
Traditional Kazakh practice featured in cultural events and guided visits.
Mongolian style wrestling showcased during festivals and events.
Precise, sport-style archery part of cultural demonstrations.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Altay.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Options are limited; rely on dairy, vegetables, and bread; communicate needs with hosts.