Karakorum

Mongolia, Asia

Karakorum, the ancient capital of Mongolia, is steeped in history and culture. Known for the impressive Erdene Zuu Monastery, which dates back to the 16th century, visitors can explore ancient ruins and vibrant traditions that continue to shape Mongolian identity. Surrounded by stunning landscapes, Karakorum offers opportunities to take part in nomadic experiences and visit the bustling local market, making it an intriguing destination for adventure seekers and cultural enthusiasts alike.

Quick facts

Target stay

3-5 days

Type

Town

Vibe

History

Airport

Buyant Ukhaa

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

8 Best Things to Do in Karakorum

1

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore the Erdene Zuu Monastery

Visit Mongolia's oldest surviving Buddhist monastery, a UNESCO site.

No booking required
2

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Kharkhorin Museum

Discover the history of the ancient capital of Mongolia.

No booking required
3

Est. 3 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Take a horseback riding tour

Ride through stunning landscapes on Mongolian horses.

Booking required
4

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore the Karakorum ruins

Wander through the remnants of ancient Mongolian history.

No booking required
5

Est. < 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Turtle Rock

See the unique rock formation resembling a turtle.

No booking required
6

Est. 4 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Attend the Naadam Festival

Experience traditional Mongolian sports and culture.

Booking required
7

Est. 5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Orkhon Valley

Explore the beautiful UNESCO World Heritage site.

No booking required
8

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Taste local Mongolian cuisine

Savor traditional dishes like buuz and khorkhog.

No booking required

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)