Essential Information
- Location: About 65 km northeast of Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia’s capital.
- Size: Approximately 2,920 sq. km, part of the Khan Khentii Protected Area.
- Best Time to Visit:
- Summer (June – September): Pleasant weather, lush landscapes, and great hiking conditions.
- Winter (November – February): Snow-covered scenery, ideal for those interested in winter sports and experiencing Mongolia’s extreme climate.
- Entry Fee: Minimal entry fees apply for visitors, paid at the park’s entrance.
Interesting Facts
- Famous for Its Landscapes: The park features stunning rock formations, rolling green valleys, and pristine rivers.
- Nomadic Culture: Many local families still live in traditional yurts (gers), offering visitors a glimpse into Mongolian life.
- Diverse Wildlife: Home to brown bears, lynxes, eagles, and argali sheep, though many animals stay hidden in remote areas.
- Spiritual Sites: The park contains meditation temples and sacred sites, attracting Buddhist pilgrims.
How to Get There
- By Car: The most convenient way to reach the park. A 1.5–2 hour drive from Ulaanbaatar via well-paved roads.
- By Bus: Public minibuses run from Ulaanbaatar’s Dragon Bus Terminal to Terelj Village, but they do not reach deep into the park.
- By Tour Package: Many travel agencies offer day tours and multi-day trips with guided activities.
- By Horse or Camel: Adventurous travelers can join an organized trek from Ulaanbaatar, riding horses or camels to reach the park.
Best Things to Do in Gorkhi-Terelj National Park
- Visit Turtle Rock (Melkhii Khad)
- A massive rock formation resembling a turtle, one of the park’s most famous landmarks.
- Hike to Aryabal Meditation Temple
- A serene Buddhist temple on a hilltop offering panoramic views.
- Horseback Riding
- Explore the park on horseback like a true Mongolian nomad.
- Camping & Staying in a Ger (Yurt)
- Experience authentic nomadic life by sleeping in a traditional Mongolian tent.
- Hike and Trek Through the Wilderness
- Multiple trails offer breathtaking views of forests, rivers, and mountains.
- River Rafting & Fishing
- The Tuul River is ideal for kayaking, rafting, and fishing in the summer.
- Wildlife Watching
- Spot eagles, vultures, foxes, and wild horses in the vast grasslands.
- Winter Activities
- Try dog sledding, snowshoeing, and ice fishing during the colder months.
Best Accommodation Options
- Luxury Ger Camps:
- Terelj Lodge – Offers modern amenities, great food, and comfortable ger stays.
- Terelj Hotel & Spa – A high-end resort with a blend of Mongolian and European styles.
- Mid-Range Options:
- Gorkhi Eco Lodge – An eco-friendly camp with traditional yet comfortable accommodation.
- Nomadic Ger Camps – Stay with local families for an authentic experience.
- Budget-Friendly:
- Terelj Tourist Camp – Affordable gers and cabins for backpackers.
- Camping in the Wilderness – Perfect for adventure seekers who bring their own gear.
Top Attractions in the Park
- Turtle Rock: The park’s most iconic natural landmark.
- Aryabal Meditation Temple: A peaceful Buddhist retreat with prayer wheels and spiritual symbolism.
- Princess Temple (Gunjiin Süm): Ruins of a historical temple deep in the park.
- Khan Khentii Mountains: Remote snow-capped peaks and vast forests for serious trekkers.
Getting Around
- Horseback: The best way to explore Mongolia’s landscapes. Many camps rent horses with guides.
- Hiking: Numerous trails and mountain paths make for excellent trekking.
- Off-Road Vehicles: Jeep tours are available for reaching remote areas and hidden valleys.
- Bicycle Rentals: Some camps offer mountain bikes for cycling along scenic routes.
Day Trips from Gorkhi-Terelj
- Genghis Khan Equestrian Statue Complex (54 km)
- The largest horse statue in the world, featuring a museum and stunning viewpoints.
- Bogd Khan Uul National Park (70 km)
- A UNESCO Biosphere Reserve with ancient monasteries and hiking trails.
- Ulaanbaatar City Tour (65 km)
- Visit the capital’s major attractions, including Gandan Monastery, Sukhbaatar Square, and Zaisan Memorial.
Practical Tips
Dress for the Weather: Mongolia has extreme temperatures—warm clothes for winter, light layers for summer.
Bring Cash: Many ger camps do not accept credit cards.
Pack Essentials: Carry sunscreen, insect repellent, sturdy shoes, and a flashlight.
Respect Nomadic Culture: Always ask permission before taking photos of locals or entering gers.
Travel with a Guide: If exploring deep into the park, hiring a guide ensures a safer and more informative experience.
Stay Hydrated: Mongolia’s dry climate can cause dehydration, so drink plenty of water.
Conclusion
Gorkhi-Terelj National Park is one of Mongolia’s most breathtaking destinations, offering stunning landscapes, cultural experiences, and outdoor adventures. Whether you’re riding horses, meditating in a temple, hiking through valleys, or staying in a traditional ger, this park is the perfect getaway from Ulaanbaatar. A trip to Gorkhi-Terelj is an unforgettable journey into Mongolia’s nomadic heritage and natural beauty!
