Mongolia · Region
Uvurkhangai
Photo: Enkhgerele (CC0)
Uvurkhangai is the heartland of Mongolia's Khangai region, where the ruins of Kharkhorin, once the capital of the Mongol Empire, sit alongside the Orkhon Valley's grasslands and the dramatic basalt cliffs of the Ulaan Tsutgalan waterfall. It is a province of monasteries, nomadic herding valleys and volcanic terrain, bridging the forested north of Mongolia with the Gobi's edge to the south.
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Frequently asked questions about Uvurkhangai
How do I get to Uvurkhangai?
Most travellers reach Uvurkhangai by road from Ulaanbaatar via the paved A1 Highway, a drive of roughly 6 hours to Arvaikheer, the provincial capital; there is also a small domestic airport at Arvaikheer (AVK) with infrequent flights, and no rail line serves the province. Buses and shared vans also run from Ulaanbaatar's regional transport hubs for those travelling without a private vehicle.
How many days should I spend in Uvurkhangai?
Plan on ~3-5 days to cover Kharkhorin, the Erdene Zuu monastery and the Orkhon Valley at a relaxed pace, or longer if venturing further to Ulaan Tsutgalan waterfall and the province's remoter soums.
What is Uvurkhangai known for?
Uvurkhangai is the heartland of Mongolia's Khangai region, where the ruins of Kharkhorin, once the capital of the Mongol Empire, sit alongside the Orkhon Valley's grasslands and the dramatic basalt cliffs of the Ulaan Tsutgalan waterfall. It is a province of monasteries, nomadic herding valleys and volcanic terrain, bridging the forested north of Mongolia with the Gobi's edge to the south.