Khongoryn Els

Khongoryn Els, widely known as the 'Singing Sands,' is one of Mongolia's most spectacular dune fields, situated within the Gobi Gurvan Saikhan National Park. These sand dunes stretch for approximately 180 kilometers and reach widths of up to 12 kilometers. The highest peaks rise 300 meters above the desert floor, ranking them among the tallest dunes in the world. The name 'Singing Sands' refers to the low-frequency acoustic phenomenon caused by the shifting of sand grains due to wind or human movement, which produces a sound resembling a distant aircraft engine or drumming. At the base of the dunes, the Khongoryn Gol river creates a verdant oasis of meadows and pastures, providing a stark visual contrast to the yellow sand. This region is not only a remarkable natural landmark but also a vital habitat for Bactrian camels and other desert wildlife. Tourists frequently climb the steep ridges to witness the expansive Gobi horizon, particularly at sunset when the dunes are bathed in deep golden hues.

Nearby cities

Dalanzadgad

Dalanzadgad is the gateway to the Gobi Desert in southern Mongolia.

Khongoryn Els

Massive sand dunes in the Gobi Desert known for the musical sound produced by shifting winds.

History & landmarks

Flaming Cliffs (Bayanzag)

The Flaming Cliffs, locally known as Bayanzag, are a reddish sandstone formation in the Gobi Desert.

Valley of the Eagles (Yolyn Am)

Yolyn Am, also known as the Valley of the Eagles, is a deep and narrow gorge in the Gurvan Saikhan National Park.

Khermen Tsav

Khermen Tsav is a remote, rugged canyon landscape of red sandstone deep in the Gobi Desert.

More places

Gobi Gurvansaikhan National Park

Mongolia's largest national park protects a unique desert and mountain landscape, home to rare species such as the snow leopard.

Nemegt Basin

A dry valley in the Gobi Desert, famous worldwide for its rich dinosaur fossils.

Gobi Camel Breeding

In the vast plains of Ömnögovi province, nomads breed the two-humped Bactrian camel for wool, milk, and as a hardy pack animal.

Tost Mountains

A remote mountain range in the South Gobi, declared the world's first protected area specifically for snow leopards.

Gobi Desert

One of the largest deserts in the world, characterized by extreme temperature fluctuations and vast gravel plains.

Tavan Tolgoi Coal Mine

A massive coal deposit in the South Gobi, producing mainly high-quality coking coal.

Ukhaa Khudag Coal Mine

A state-of-the-art coal mine in the Gobi, operated by the Mongolian Mining Corporation, known for its integrated washing plant.

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Tsetsii Wind Farm

A modern wind energy project in the Gobi Desert, utilizing the strong and constant desert winds.