Kharkhorin

Mongolia, Asia

Kharkhorin, the ancient capital of Mongolia, pulsates with history and culture. Known for its UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Erdene Zuu Monastery, Kharkhorin is a treasure trove of stunning landscapes and rich nomadic traditions. Explore the surrounding rolling steppes, witness vibrant local festivals, and delve into the region's role along the Silk Road. Its blend of serene natural beauty and historical significance makes it an enchanting destination for adventurous souls and culture seekers alike.

Quick facts

Target stay

2-3 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

12 Best Things to Do in Kharkhorin

1

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore Erdene Zuu Monastery

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

No booking required
2

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Kharkhorin Museum

Discover artifacts from Mongolia's ancient capital.

No booking required
3

Est. 2 hrs

Seasonal

Adults only

Horseback Riding in the Orkhon Valley

Experience Mongolia's vast landscapes on horseback.

Booking required
4

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Tour the Ancient City of Kharkhorin

Walk through the ruins of the former capital of Mongolia.

No booking required
5

Est. 3 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Attend a Traditional Mongolian Festival

Experience local culture through vibrant festivals.

No booking required
6

Est. < 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Turtle Rock

Explore the unique rock formation in the area.

No booking required
7

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Experience Nomadic Culture

Join a local family for traditional Mongolian life.

Booking required
8

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Kharakhorum Museum

Learn about the history of Mongolia's ancient capital.

No booking required
9

Est. 2.5 hrs

Seasonal

Adults only

Hike to the Orkhon Waterfall

Trek to stunning waterfalls in a scenic valley.

Booking required
10

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Sample Local Cuisine

Taste traditional Mongolian dishes at local eateries.

No booking required
11

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Kharkhorin Market

Shop for local crafts and souvenirs.

No booking required
12

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore the Kharkhorin Steppe

Discover the vast grasslands of Mongolia.

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)