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Altai Mountains

Mongolia, Asia

The Altai Mountains, a rugged expanse straddling Mongolia, China, Russia, and Kazakhstan, offer breathtaking landscapes of towering peaks, glaciers, and crystal-clear lakes. Known for its rich biodiversity and unique culture, this region is home to the ancient Kazakh eagle hunters and stunning national parks like Altai Tavan Bogd. Enthusiasts of adventure can indulge in hiking, horseback riding, and wildlife spotting, making it a paradise for nature lovers and adventurous travelers alike.

Quick facts

Target stay

7-10 days

Type

Mountain

Vibe

Active

Airport

Abakan

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit

8 Best Things to Do in Altai Mountains

1. Hike to Tavan Bogd

Explore breathtaking mountain landscapes and glaciers.

Seasonal

Adults only

Booking required

8 hrs

2. Visit the Eagle Hunting Festival

Witness the ancient tradition of eagle hunting.

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Booking required

3 hrs

3. Stay in a Ger Camp

Experience traditional nomadic lifestyle in a ger.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

24 hrs

4. Explore the Altai Tavan Bogd

Discover stunning nature and unique wildlife.

Available all year

Adults only

Booking required

6 hrs

5. Visit Khovd Museum

Learn about the region's rich history and culture.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1.5 hrs

6. Trek to the Petroglyphs

See ancient rock carvings and petroglyphs.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

5 hrs

7. Rafting on the Katun River

Enjoy thrilling white-water rafting adventures.

Seasonal

Adults only

Booking required

4 hrs

8. Experience Traditional Mongolian Cuisine

Savor local dishes like buuz and khorkhog.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

2 hrs

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

Expected (~10%)

Tapwater

Not safe to drink

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

High

LGBTQ+ safety score

-3 (#70 globally)

Cost

Cheap

Currency

Tugrik

Majority religion

Buddhist

Language

Mongolian

(<20% speak English)

Best dishes to try

Buuz

Steamed dumplings filled with meat. (National dish)

Khuushuur

Fried meat-filled pastries, crispy outside.

Tsuivan

Stir-fried noodles with meat and vegetables.

Boodog

Whole goat cooked in its own skin.

Khorkhog

Meat cooked with hot stones in a pot.

Phrases to learn

English

Mongolian

Hello

Sain baina uu

(Sah-een bahy-nah oo)

Yes/No

Tiim / Ugui

(Teem / Oo-gwee)

Thank you

Bayarlaa

(Bah-yar-la)

Excuse me

Uuchlaarai

(Ooch-lah-rai)

How much?

Khed ve?

(Khed veh)