Darkhad Valley

The Darkhad Valley is a vast tectonic depression in northern Mongolia, tucked away between the Khoridol Saridag Mountains and the Ulaan Taiga massif. It covers an area of approximately 4,500 square kilometers and sits at an average elevation of 1,600 meters. The valley is renowned for its extraordinary water network, featuring over 300 lakes and numerous rivers, such as the Shishged Gol. The landscape is a mix of alpine tundra, larch forests, and wetlands, making it an ecological hotspot. The climate is extreme, with some of the coldest winter temperatures recorded in all of Mongolia. Culturally, the valley is the home of the Darkhad people and is considered a major center for Mongolian Shamanism, which has been preserved here in its most authentic form. Due to its remoteness, the valley is difficult to access, which has helped maintain traditional nomadic lifestyles. The region also provides crucial habitats for moose, reindeer, and the endangered Siberian taimen fish.

Nearby cities

Mörön

Mörön serves as the administrative center of the mountainous Khövsgöl province in the north.

Tsagaannuur (Reindeer area)

The gateway to remote northern Mongolian taiga, home to the Tsaatan reindeer herders and a place of deeply rooted shamanistic traditions.

Renchinlkhümbe

A remote village in the Darkhad Valley, famous for its shamanic traditions and proximity to the taiga.

Khatgal

A charming village on the southern shore of Khövsgöl Lake, serving as the main gateway for explorations in the region.

Khövsgöl Lake

Known as the 'Blue Pearl' of Mongolia, this massive freshwater lake is surrounded by majestic mountains and larch forests.

Sangiin Dalai Lake

A peaceful saltwater lake in northern Mongolia, known for its pristine nature and rare bird species.

History & landmarks

Terkhiin Tsagaan Nuur

Terkhiin Tsagaan Nuur, or the Great White Lake, is a beautiful freshwater lake in central Mongolia surrounded by volcanoes.

Khorgo Volcano

The Khorgo Volcano is an extinct volcano in the Khorgo-Terkhiin Tsagaan Nuur National Park.

Nature

Lake Khövsgöl

Often referred to as the 'dark blue pearl' of Mongolia, it is the country's largest freshwater lake.

Egiin Gol

The only outlet of Lake Khövsgöl is a crystal-clear, torrential river that winds its way through picturesque, wooded valleys.

More places

Tsaatan Reindeer Camps

In the northern forests of the taiga, the nomadic Tsaatan families herd reindeer for milk, transport, and as spiritual companions.

Deer Stones of Uushigiin Uvur

The Uushigiin Uvur complex in Khuvsgul Province preserves some of Eurasia's finest Bronze Age deer stones.

Mönkh Saridag

The highest peak of the Sayan Mountains lies on the border between Mongolia and Russia.