Plizio Visual Lab

Gatsuurt Gold Mine

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

mine

Weather…

The Gatsuurt gold mine is located in Selenge Province, approximately 90 kilometers north of the capital city, Ulaanbaatar. Developed by the Canadian mining firm Centerra Gold, it is considered one of the most significant gold deposits in Mongolia with reserves estimated in the millions of ounces. The project involves extracting gold from both surface and underground sources, utilizing specialized processing for sulfide ores. Gatsuurt's location is highly controversial due to its proximity to the Noyon Uul mountains, a sacred site containing ancient Xiongnu royal tombs. This has led to prolonged legal battles and public protests regarding the preservation of cultural heritage versus the economic benefits of mining. The development of Gatsuurt is closely linked to the nearby Boroo mine infrastructure, aiming to extend the life of gold production in the region through modern technological applications.

Location: Mongolia
Nearby: Züünkharaa (21 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	-16	-7	2	9	17	19	16	9	0	-10	-18
Rain mm	3	4	7	12	34	52	68	68	29	12	9	5

📋 Practical info

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What is this place?

Representing a highly significant precious metal deposit in northern Mongolia, this large-scale commercial mining operation utilizes modern extraction techniques to contribute substantially to the national economy and broad regional development.

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Visiting

The active mining extraction zones, sensitive processing plants, and all direct operational areas are strictly off-limits to the general public due to intense industrial safety regulations and strict corporate security protocols governing precious metals.

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Where to view it

While direct access is impossible, the immense scale of the earthworks, wide access roads, and continuous heavy machinery movements can sometimes be observed from elevated public vantage points in the surrounding photogenic mountainous terrain.

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Local products

Direct purchase of extracted raw gold is entirely impossible on-site, but the profound economic impact of the extensive mining operations often directly supports the development of local infrastructure and commercial services in nearby communities.

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Active season

Large-scale mining operations typically run continuously throughout the entire year, although the most intense surface activities and logistical transport movements might significantly peak during the warmer, more accessible summer months in this northern climate.

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Nearby

An expedition passing near this major industrial zone can be exceptionally well combined with exploring the pristine natural landscapes, deep expansive forests, and clear flowing rivers characteristic of Mongolia's beautiful northern Selenge province.