Things To Do
in Arvayheer
Arvaikheer is a compact provincial capital in central Mongolia, positioned on the grassy steppe with wide horizons. Surrounded by the Khangai mountains, it's a gateway to rugged landscapes and traditional ger life. The town blends modest tourism infrastructure with a strong sense of nomadic heritage.
In town and along nearby valleys, visitors can experience hospitable locals, dairy-rich meals, and easy access to countryside adventures.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Arvayheer and settle into your accommodation. Take a leisurely walk through the town center to get a feel for the local life and architecture. Visit the local market to see traditional Mongolian crafts and produce.
Enjoy a traditional Mongolian lunch at a local restaurant. Explore the regional museum to learn about the history and culture of Övörkhangai Province. Visit the central square and admire the statues and monuments.
Dine at a cozy ger camp or local eatery to experience authentic Mongolian cuisine. Watch the sunset over the rolling hills surrounding Arvayheer. Relax by a campfire and enjoy traditional music or storytelling.
Travel to a nearby ger camp to immerse yourself in the traditional nomadic lifestyle. Participate in setting up the ger and learn about its significance. Join the family in milking livestock such as goats or cows.
Help prepare a traditional Mongolian meal using fresh dairy products. Take a horseback ride across the vast steppes, observing the stunning landscapes and local wildlife. Learn about Mongolian herding techniques from the nomads.
Enjoy dinner around a warm fire inside the ger. Share stories and songs with the nomadic family under the clear starry sky. Experience the peacefulness and silence of the countryside at night.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-12 |
| 💧Bottle of water (1 liter) | $0.50-1.50 |
| 🚕Taxi ride within town | $2-5 |
| ☕Coffee or tea in cafe | $2-4 |
| 🛏️Hotel night (mid-range) | $20-50 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning steppe landscapes and clear night skies
- Warm and welcoming locals with strong nomadic culture
- Limited nightlife and amenities in town
- Long travel times to major cities and some attractions
- "Сайн байна уу?" - Hello
- "Баярлалаа." - Thank you
- "Хэдэн төгрөг вэ?" - How much is this?
- "Би англиар ярьдаг." - I speak English
- "Би монголоор бага ярьдаг." - I speak a little Mongolian
- "Та надад туслаж чадах уу?" - Could you help me?
Places to Visit in Arvayheer
Visit one of these nice places.
Colorful stalls and light reflections as vendors start their day, with locals in motion.
Wide river valley with grazing livestock and willows lining the water’s edge.
Rolling green ranges and dramatic skies ideal for landscape photography.
Evening silhouettes of traditional gers against a vivid sunset and star-filled skies.
Food in Arvayheer
Arvayheer Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional Mongolian barbecue where mutton is cooked with hot stones inside a sealed vessel.
Must-Try!
Steamed dumplings filled with minced meat and onions.
Fermented mare's milk, lightly alcoholic and refreshing in summer.
Dried curds or meat snacks that keep well on long journeys.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
The town’s bustling market where locals buy meat, dairy, produce, and homemade snacks; look for airag and fried bread.
A line of stalls offering hot dumplings, fried bread, and milk tea.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a warm hello and a handshake; show respect by using both hands when offering or receiving items.
Dress modestly in public; remove shoes when entering homes or certain traditional spaces; ask permission before photographing people.
Be respectful at monasteries and family ger camps; avoid touching sacred objects without permission.
Safety
Tipping in Arvayheer
Ensure a smooth experience
Tips are appreciated but not mandatory; leave small amounts for guides, drivers, and wait staff, typically 5-10% where appropriate.
Cash in Mongolian Tugrik is widely used; some cafes accept cards or mobile payments in town; ATMs are common in Arvaikheer.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days with sudden cold snaps; showers can make unpaved roads muddy.
Warm to hot days with long daylight hours; a great time for hikes and markets.
Cool, clear days with vibrant foliage and less tourist traffic.
Very cold temperatures, strong winds, and occasional heavy snowfall; plan warm clothing and travel contingencies.
Arvayheer at Night
Hiking in Arvayheer
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic route through rolling hills and pastureland, suitable for day hikes.
Easy to moderate walks along the river with chances to spot birds and wildlife.
Airports
How to reach Arvayheer by plane.
Main international gateway to Mongolia; about a 6-8 hour drive or train ride from Arvaikheer; transfer by air, bus, or car.
A domestic airport in the south of Mongolia; far from Arvaikheer but a usable option for internal flights to other regions; travel by road from there to Arvaikheer.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The overwhelming majority in Arvaikheer and Arkhangai Province; herding and farming communities with strong traditional heritage.
People who balance town life with seasonal movement to pasture and camps.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
One of the traditional Mongolian 'three manly games' and a popular sport nationwide, with local competitions.
A staple activity in rural Mongolia; many families offer horseback treks and short rides.
Part of traditional sports and some festival events; often paired with riding demonstrations.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Arvayheer.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options exist but are limited; look for dairy, vegetables, and potato-based dishes, and ask about meat-free preparations.