Tost Mountains

The Tost Mountains, or Tost Uul, are located in the Ömnögovi Province of southern Mongolia and form part of the southern Gobi-Altai range. Reaching elevations of around 2,500 meters, the mountains stand as a rugged island of biodiversity amidst the surrounding desert plains of the Gobi. Geologically, the range features a mix of ancient volcanic rocks and sedimentary formations, characterized by steep cliffs and narrow, winding canyons. The Tost Mountains gained significant international attention in 2016 when they were designated as the Tost-Tosonbumba Nature Reserve, the first of its kind in Mongolia created through community-led conservation efforts. This area is a critical stronghold for the endangered snow leopard, hosting one of the most stable populations studied globally. The flora is sparse, consisting mainly of drought-resistant shrubs and hardy steppe grasses. For local nomadic herders, the mountains are a vital resource, providing seasonal water sources and shelter for livestock. The protection of this range was a major victory against encroaching mining interests, preserving a unique ecosystem for future generations.

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

Khermen Tsav

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

Khongoryn Els

Khongoryn Els, also known as the 'Singing Sands', are the largest and most spectacular sand dunes in the Gobi Desert.

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.

More places

Nemegt Basin

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

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.

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.

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.

Oyu Tolgoi Mine

One of the world's largest copper and gold deposits, located deep in the Gobi Desert.