Interesting facts about Mongolia

1. The world's most sparsely populated area.

With a total area of ​​1,564,116 km²2Mongolia is smaller than the US state of Alaska. With a density of 4 people per square mile, Mongolia is currently the most sparsely populated country in the world.

2. Ulaanbaatar, the capital city, is the coldest place in the world.

Ulaanbaatar, the capital of Mongolia, is situated on the banks of the Tuul River and is the largest city in the world. Before becoming known as Ulaanbaatar, the city was known as Urga.

3. Cultural traditions of horseback riding and archery.

In Mongolia, people still maintain the cultural traditions of horseback riding, archery, and eagle control – also known as the "lord of the skies" in Mongolia. Children living on the steppes, around the age of 14-15, are taught horsemanship and archery by older men in their families.

4. Nomadic life from ancient times

Modern Mongolia is divided into two regions: the modern city of Ulaanbaatar, which has sprung up on the eastern coast, and the vast nomadic region in the southwest. These expansive grasslands have been home to nomadic people for centuries, serving as grazing grounds and settled agricultural areas.

5. The Gobi Desert - the heart of the country

The Gobi Desert – the “heart” of Mongolia. A vast expanse of sky unfolds before your eyes, its colors changing under the sunlight. Due to the intermingling of plains, the Gobi is divided into many smaller areas, so visitors don't need to fear getting lost in the dangerous “sea of ​​desert.”

6. The festival dates back to ancient times.

Mongolian traditional festivals date back to the time of Genghis Khan and continue to this day. The festivals include many exciting games such as wrestling, horseback riding, and archery… And don't forget to try Arkhi (also known as Shimiin Arkhi Vodka), a type of liquor made from fermented Tibetan yak milk.

7. Genghis Khan Memorial

The Genghis Khan Memorial Complex is located on the steppe about 54 km east of the capital Ulaanbaatar, with its highlight being a statue of the great Mongol emperor charging into battle on horseback.

8. Gandan Khiid Monastery

Gandan Khiid Monastery is one of the largest monasteries in Mongolia, built in 1835. Inside the monastery is a 26-meter-tall, 20-ton gilded and ornate statue of Magjid Janraisig (Avalokiteshvara), a replica of a statue destroyed in 1920. This statue is a contribution from the Mongolian people, symbolizing the revival of Buddhism.

9. There are more animals than people.

In Mongolia, the number of some animal species exceeds the number of people. Specifically, there are 13 times more horses than people living in the country, and 35 times more sheep than people.

10. Land of the Blue Sky

Mongolia is also known as the "Land of the Blue Sky" because it enjoys over 260 sunny days a year. Standing out amidst the vast green grasslands are the mobile homes of the Mongolian nomadic people, scattered throughout the expansive landscape.

11. A paradise of lamb and goat meat and milk.

Mongolia is a paradise for lamb and goat meat dishes. Products made from sheep's and goat's milk, such as hot milk, clotted cream, and orom, are all delicious and appealing. In Ulaanbaatar, you can find everything from Asian cuisine to fast food… But outside the capital, the main food source for Mongolians is meat and milk from two species: sheep and goats!

12. The Silk Road

The Mongols derived enormous income from this legendary route, with the majority of tolls going directly into their pockets. Genghis Khan not only used this route for trade with Europe but also for world conquest. During their rule over this vital route, the Mongols implemented appropriate policies to maintain and stimulate trade between the two continents of Asia and Europe.

Peace