Gorkhi-Terelj

Gorkhi-Terelj National Park, created in 1993, covers about 2,900 km² of the southern Khentii Mountains north-east of Ulaanbaatar. Most visitors stay in its developed southern corner along the Terelj and Tuul rivers, with the granite outcrops of Turtle Rock, the Aryabal meditation temple, wooded slopes and riding meadows. The rest of the park is roadless forest and mountain that joins the much larger Khan Khentii Strictly Protected Area.

Granite, forest and rivers

The rock formations are granite that frost, wind and water have worn into rounded towers, stacks and boulders. The park rises from about 1,300 m to more than 2,600 m. The lower valleys are forest steppe, with grassy open slopes and woods of birch, larch, pine, aspen and willow; higher up are mountain steppe and alpine ground. Far upstream lie Khagiin Khar, a glacial lake about 20 m deep, and the Yestii hot springs, both destinations for multi-day rides.

Wildlife and seasons

More than 250 bird species have been recorded, including saker falcon, cinereous vulture and forest birds such as black-billed capercaillie and Ural owl. Brown bear, red deer, wild boar and foxes live in the forests, though near the camps you are more likely to see marmots and herders' horses and yaks. June to August is the warmest and greenest time, with frequent afternoon showers. September brings yellow birch and larch and fewer visitors, and winter is very cold but dry and bright, with frozen rivers.

Making the most of it

A day trip covers the main sights, but two or three nights let you ride or hike beyond the road. Stay on paths around the rocks and keep away from crumbling edges. Forest fires are a real threat, especially in dry spring weather, so never leave a campfire burning.