Topic: Mongolia

In between Russia and China, Mongolia is a vast East Asian country. It was named after the Mongols who inhabited the country from 1206. The population is just over three million and yet it is the second largest land-locked country in the world. With little arable land, the terrain is mainly comprised of grassy steppes, mountain ranges, rushing rivers, lakes and the Gobi Desert.

Mongolia capital, Ulaanbaatar

Ulaanbaatar is the largest city in Mongolia and its cultural and economic centre. Some 45% of the population live there. It is situated in the North Eastern part of the country and stands at an elevation of 4,300 feet in the valley of the Tuul River, which is considered sacred by the Mongols. Ulaanbaatar is connected to both Russia and China by rail, via the Trans-Siberian Railway and the Trans-Mongolian Railway.

Tourism in Mongolia

In the past twenty years travellers have been heading for the largely unspoilt landscapes in increasing numbers. They are richly rewarded as it is possible to observe the nomadic lifestyle at close quarters and view the stunning open terrain, which is relatively deserted. Outside the capital, some travellers use guides or tourist companies to find their way about. Back packing, however, is a relatively inexpensive way of exploring the wilderness whilst staying in low budget hostels.

Festivals in Mongolia

A great way to explore the country and its culture is to attend one of the many Mongolia festivals that take place there throughout the year, from the Khövsgöl Ice Festival and Tsagaan Sar or Mongolian New Year in winter, to the Camel Festival and Winter Golden Eagle Festival in March, and its biggest event of the year, the Naadam Festival.

Mongolian Cuisine

Food in Mongolia is not easy for the vegan as it mainly consists of meat and dairy products, although a limited number of eating places provide vegetarian food. Cooked mutton is very popular which can be accompanied by buuz, steamed dumplings stuffed with meat and onions, which you can wash down with akhi, a traditional Mongolian milk vodka. The yogurt is matured until very sour and has a fifteen to twenty percent alcoholic content. Nomads often have their own still to take with them.