More about Hovsgol Province
Discovering the Hidden Gems of Hovsgol, Mongolia
Located in the northern part of Mongolia, Hovsgol is a hidden gem that offers breathtaking landscapes and unforgettable experiences. The region is known for its pristine and crystal-clear lake, Hovsgol Nuur, which is surrounded by mountains and forests. This is the perfect destination for travelers who are looking for adventure, tranquility, and a unique cultural experience.
Hovsgol is home to the Tsaatan people, who are also known as the Reindeer Herders. They have a unique way of life and still practice their traditional customs and beliefs. Travelers can visit their camps and learn about their way of life, which includes living in teepees, herding reindeer, and using them for transportation. This is a rare opportunity to experience a way of life that has remained unchanged for centuries.
Unforgettable Experiences: Top Reasons to Visit Hovsgol
Hovsgol offers an array of unforgettable experiences that will leave travelers with lasting memories. Here are some of the top reasons to visit Hovsgol:
- Explore the stunning landscapes: Hovsgol is home to some of the most beautiful landscapes in Mongolia. From the crystal-clear lake to the snow-capped mountains, there is no shortage of natural beauty to explore.
- Experience the Tsaatan way of life: As mentioned earlier, the Tsaatan people have a unique way of life that is worth experiencing. Travelers can visit their camps, learn about their customs, and even take a reindeer ride.
- Go trekking: Hovsgol is a great destination for trekking enthusiasts. There are several trails to choose from that offer stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains.
- Try horseback riding: Horseback riding is a popular activity in Hovsgol. Travelers can ride through the forests, mountains, and along the lake shore.
- Enjoy winter sports: During the winter months, Hovsgol offers an array of winter sports activities, such as skiing, ice-skating, and ice-fishing.
Traveling to Hovsgol: Your Ultimate Guide
Getting to Hovsgol can be a bit challenging, but it is definitely worth the effort. The easiest way to get there is by flying to Murun, which is the closest airport to Hovsgol. From there, travelers can take a bus or a taxi to Hovsgol, which is about 130 km away. Another option is to take a domestic flight to Hovsgol from Ulaanbaatar, the capital city of Mongolia.
Exploring the Beauty of Hovsgol: Fun Things to Do
Hovsgol offers an array of fun things to do for travelers of all ages. Here are some of the top activities to consider:
- Visit the Hovsgol Nuur National Park: This is a must-visit destination for travelers who want to explore the beauty of Hovsgol. The park is home to several hiking trails, waterfalls, and stunning vistas.
- Take a boat ride on the lake: The crystal-clear waters of Hovsgol Nuur are perfect for a boat ride. Travelers can rent a boat and explore the lake at their own pace.
- Visit the Tsaatan camps: As mentioned earlier, the Tsaatan people have a unique way of life that is worth experiencing. Travelers can visit their camps, learn about their customs, and even take a reindeer ride.
- Go horseback riding: Horseback riding is a popular activity in Hovsgol. Travelers can ride through the forests, mountains, and along the lake shore.
- Visit the Khatgal Village: This small village is located on the southern shore of Hovsgol Nuur and is a great place to experience the local culture. Travelers can visit the local market, try local food, and even stay with a local family.
Book your Hovsgol Accommodation with Agoda.com
Agoda.com offers a great selection of hotels and accommodations in Hovsgol. Whether you are looking for a luxury hotel or a budget-friendly option, Agoda.com has something for everyone. Here are some of the top hotels to consider:
- Yingcheng: This hotel is located in the heart of Hovsgol and offers stunning views of the lake. It features comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and a bar.
- Howard Johnson Tianzhu Plaza Fuyang: This hotel is located in the Fuyang district of Hovsgol and offers modern rooms, a restaurant, and a fitness center.
- Khuvsgul Bayan-Ulaan: This hotel is located on the shore of Hovsgol Nuur and offers stunning views of the lake. It features comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and a bar.
- Howard Johnson by Wyndham Life Parkview Yuqing: This hotel is located in the Yuqing district of Hovsgol and offers modern rooms, a restaurant, and a fitness center.
The Best Time to Visit Hovsgol: A Seasonal Guide
The best time to visit Hovsgol depends on what you want to do and see. Here is a seasonal guide to help you plan your trip:
- Summer (June to August): This is the peak tourist season in Hovsgol. The weather is warm and sunny, making it perfect for outdoor activities like hiking, horseback riding, and boating.
- Fall (September to November): The fall season in Hovsgol is characterized by cooler temperatures and beautiful autumn foliage. This is a great time to go trekking and enjoy the stunning scenery.
- Winter (December to February): The winter season in Hovsgol is cold and snowy, but it offers an array of winter sports activities like skiing, ice-skating, and ice-fishing.
- Spring (March to May): The spring season in Hovsgol is characterized by mild temperatures and blooming flowers. This is a great time to visit if you want to avoid the crowds and enjoy the peacefulness of the region.
Expert Tips for Travelers Visiting Hovsgol
Here are some expert tips for travelers visiting Hovsgol:
- Pack warm clothes: The weather in Hovsgol can be unpredictable, so it is important to pack warm clothes, especially if you are visiting during the winter months.
- Bring insect repellent: During the summer months, there can be a lot of mosquitoes and other insects in Hovsgol. Make sure to bring insect repellent to avoid getting bitten.
- Respect the local culture: The Tsaatan people have a unique way of life that should be respected. When visiting their camps, make sure to follow their customs and beliefs.
- Book your accommodation in advance: Hovsgol is a popular tourist destination, so it is important to book your accommodation in advance, especially during the peak season.
Where to Stay in Hovsgol: Accommodation Options
Hovsgol offers a variety of accommodation options for travelers of all budgets. Here are some of the top options to consider:
- Yingcheng: This hotel is located in the heart of Hovsgol and offers stunning views of the lake. It features comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and a bar.
- Howard Johnson Tianzhu Plaza Fuyang: This hotel is located in the Fuyang district of Hovsgol and offers modern rooms, a restaurant, and a fitness center.
- Khuvsgul Bayan-Ulaan: This hotel is located on the shore of Hovsgol Nuur and offers stunning views of the lake. It features comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and a bar.
- Howard Johnson by Wyndham Life Parkview Yuqing: This hotel is located in the Yuqing district of Hovsgol and offers modern rooms, a restaurant, and a fitness center.
Tasting Hovsgol: A Foodie's Guide to Mongolian Cuisine
Mongolian cuisine is known for its hearty and meat-heavy dishes. Here are some of the top dishes to try when visiting Hovsgol:
- Khorkhog: This is a traditional Mongolian dish that consists of meat (usually lamb or goat) that is cooked with hot stones. The meat is marinated with onions, carrots, and potatoes, and then wrapped in foil and cooked over hot stones.
- Buuz: Buuz is a type of steamed dumpling that is filled with meat (usually beef or mutton) and onions. It is a popular snack in Mongolia and is often served with a side of hot sauce.
- Khuushuur: Khuushuur is a type of fried dumpling that is filled with meat and vegetables. It is a popular street food in Mongolia and is often served with a side of sour cream.
- Tsuivan: Tsuivan is a type of stir-fried noodle dish that is made with meat and vegetables. It is a popular comfort food in Mongolia and is often served with a side of pickles.
Getting Around Hovsgol: Transportation Options
The best way to get around Hovsgol is by hiring a local guide or driver. They can take you to all the top destinations and provide you with valuable information about the region. Another option is to rent a car, but keep in mind that the roads in Hovsgol can be rough and difficult to navigate. If you are traveling on a budget, you can also take a bus to some of the top destinations in Hovsgol.