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Erdenet Copper Mine

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

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The Erdenet Mining Corporation is one of the largest copper and molybdenum producers in Asia, located in northern Mongolia. Established in 1974 as a joint venture between Mongolia and the Soviet Union, the corporation led to the founding of Erdenet city, now the second-largest urban center in the country. For decades, it served as the backbone of the Mongolian economy, providing the majority of the nation's foreign currency and tax revenue. Today, the mining complex is fully state-owned and processes approximately 32 million tons of ore annually. The operation features a massive open-pit mine that is one of the most prominent industrial features in the region. In addition to copper, it is a significant global supplier of molybdenum, a metal essential for high-strength steel alloys. The corporation remains a major employer and a key supporter of local social services, including schools and healthcare facilities. While newer mines like Oyu Tolgoi have emerged, Erdenet continues to be a symbol of Mongolia's long-standing industrial tradition and technical proficiency in the extractive sector.

Location: Mongolia
Top sights: Orkhon Myzei · Urlagiin tov · toiruulga
Nearby: Erdenet (5 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	-20	-17	-7	2	9	16	18	15	9	0	-10	-18
Rain mm	3	4	10	16	33	60	87	81	32	16	8	5

📋 Practical info

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What is this place?

Dominating the local geography, this colossal open-pit operation stands as one of Asia's largest copper mines and a cornerstone of the national economy. The massive undertaking fundamentally drove the rapid development of the namesake city, transforming it into a vital industrial hub for Mongolia.

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Visiting

While wandering independently down into the active blast zones is strictly prohibited, the mine often accommodates organized, pre-arranged tours for those deeply interested in industrial tourism. Furthermore, the immense terraced crater is so vast that it can be easily observed from high points just beyond the security fencing.

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Where to view it

For a spectacular panoramic perspective, visitors frequently drive or hike up to the public viewpoints located on the surrounding hills overlooking the massive pit. The sheer scale of the colorful, stepped earthworks and the tiny, ant-like heavy machinery working below create an unforgettable visual experience.

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Local products

The city of Erdenet itself is spirited and relatively affluent, offering modern shops, traditional Mongolian woolen goods, and local crafts. Travelers will find bustling markets selling regional dairy products, meats, and souvenirs that highlight the region's unique blend of nomadic heritage and industrial modernization.

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Active season

The mine is a continuous operation, functioning endlessly throughout the year and driving the local economy at all times. Summer is undoubtedly the most pleasant time for tourists to visit, offering bright, clear days to observe the massive excavation without enduring the extreme, freezing Mongolian winter temperatures.

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Nearby

This impressive industrial spectacle is ideally paired with visiting the Buddhist temple situated on the edge of the city. Additionally, nature lovers can use Erdenet as a comfortable launching point for exploring the easy on the eye Selenge River basin and the pristine mountainous landscapes of northern Mongolia.

Geography

Coordinates

49.02670, 104.04160

Facts

The mine officially began its operations in December 1978.
It was historically a 51/49% joint venture with the USSR/Russia.
Erdenet produces approximately 530,000 tons of copper concentrate per year.
The open-pit mine has a width of over 1 kilometer at certain points.
It remains the largest taxpayer in Mongolia for many consecutive years.
The facility includes its own power plant and extensive railway links.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Erdenet5 km · NExplore →

Tsogt Taij Castle Ruins21 km · EExplore →

Amarbayasgalant Monastery29 km · NWExplore →

Khar Bukh Balgas35 km · SEExplore →

Bulgan57 km · SExplore →

Khamar-Daban67 km · WExplore →

Decembrist Museum Irkutsk92 km · WExplore →

Egiin Gol94 km · SExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Start Destination Via (optional)

Overnight stops

Vehicle

Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights in the town Erdenet Copper Mine (10)

Orkhon Myzei 🏛 museum

A regional museum in Erdenet focusing on the history and culture of the Orkhon valley.

Urlagiin tov 🎭 culture

A local cultural center in Erdenet for performances and visual arts exhibitions.

toiruulga 🎡 recreation

A small amusement park in Erdenet featuring carousels and family entertainment.

Khuukhed zaluuchuudyn teatr 🎭 culture

A local theatre in Erdenet specialized in performances for young audiences.

Divine mercy 📍 landmark

A Catholic church in Erdenet dedicated to Divine Mercy.

Amgalan orshikhui tov 📍 landmark

A Christian community center in Erdenet for worship and local gatherings.

Khristiin baptist sum 📍 landmark

A Baptist church in Erdenet hosting regular Christian services.

Nuursnii zakh 🎭 culture

A specialized marketplace in Erdenet for trading coal for local households.

Sansar saun 🎡 recreation

A public bathhouse in Erdenet offering sauna services and relaxation facilities.

khaluun usny gazar 🎡 recreation

A public facility in Erdenet providing hot showers and washing amenities.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What does the Erdenet copper mine produce?

Copper and molybdenum concentrates in huge quantities.

Is Erdenet a visitable city?

Yes, it is one of the most modern cities in Mongolia.

How many days for Erdenet?

Two days are enough to see the city and the surroundings.

Is it family-friendly?

Yes, it has good infrastructure and parks.

When is the best time to visit?

From May to September.

Erdenet Copper Mine: where is it located?

Erdenet Copper Mine is located in Mongolia.

Erdenet Copper Mine: what is there to see?

Highlights include Orkhon Myzei, Urlagiin tov, toiruulga.

Erdenet Copper Mine: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.

Erdenet Copper Mine: why is it worth visiting?

The Erdenet Mining Corporation is one of the largest copper and molybdenum producers in Asia, located in northern Mongolia.

View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →

Erdenet Copper Mine

Best time to visit & climate