Asia

Gov-Altai, Mongolia

The Gov-Altai Province is not only the second biggest province in Mongolia but also one of the most remote. The name of the province comes from a combination of the Gobi Desert and the Mongol Altai Nuruu mountain range. Gov Altai is a sparsely inhabited area that is bordered on all sides by arid highland deserts, broad stony plains, and mountain peaks that touch the sky and are desolate and rugged. It is a dispersed province that has a total size of about 54,911 square miles.  The region provides a safe haven for a diverse collection of plant and animal life.

In 1940, Gov Altai was officially recognised as a province. It is rich in a variety of natural resources, including coal, minerals, fruit forests, and other types of vegetation. Oasis and towering sand dunes in particular are among of the province’s most valuable natural features.

In addition, several of Mongolia’s most well-known national parks are partially located within Gov-Altai. Altai is the name of both the capital of Gov-Altai and the mountain that gives the city its name. On this desolate region, you may go hiking, horseback riding, mountaineering, camping, or even just ride about on horseback. Every every second spent in such a distant location is certain to be an adventure in and of itself due to the location’s remoteness.

Main Tourist Attractions of Gov-Altai

Dashpeljeelen Khiid

In Altai, there has been a Buddhist monastery known as Dashpeljeelen Khiid from the year 1990. Although it is not very large, it is a very lovely monastery that is home to around 30 monks who are responsible for the study, practise, and dissemination of Buddhism in the neighbourhood. It is located in close proximity to the central centre of the town. Visitors are warmly invited to attend the religious service that takes place at the monastery at ten in the morning on virtually a daily basis.

Aimag Museum

The Aimag Museum, which is situated in the Altai, provides visitors with an understanding of the history, culture, and traditions of Mongolia that are exclusive to this area. The displays include a number of interesting works, such as scroll paintings and bronze sculptures. In addition to military chain mail, this location also has displays of ethnic clothing and musical drums.

Eej Khairkhan Uul

Eej Khairkhan Uul is a mountain that is located around 150 km to the south of Altai and has an elevation of 2275 m. It is a section of the Eej Khairkhan Nature Reserve that was just discovered. In the direction of the southwestern corner of Mongolia, the mountain may be found to the north of Gobi A National Park. Since 1992, a number of laws have been in place to safeguard the land, making it an ideal location for outdoor enthusiasts interested in wildlife. Camping and hiking are two activities that are highly recommended while experiencing the mountain’s foothills. Additionally, there are examples of traditional rock art in the region.

Gobi B (Dzungarian Gobi)

The Great Gobi Strictly Protected Area was formed in 1975, and one of the sections of the protected area is called Gobi B. It is differentiated from its analogue, which is known as the Dzungarian Gobi. Gobi B is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna due to the diversity of its area. This protected region is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, including animals, reptiles, amphibians, and birds of all shapes and sizes. There have been sporadic reports of herders travelling across the Gobi B area.

Gobi A (Southern Altai Gobi)

Another component of the Great Gobi Strictly Protected Area, Gobi A is located about 300 km away from its counterpart, Gobi B. It is also known as Southern Altai Gobi. In contrast to Gobi B, Gobi A is a desolate, deserted region that is located a significant distance from any human settlement. The only people who live there are those who work there and those who patrol the border. It covers a total area of 17,014 square miles and is home to several unique animal species, such as the Bactrian wild camel and the Gobi bear, both of which are native to the region. The United Nations has decided to designate Gobi A as an International Biosphere Reserve.