Khoton Lake

Khoton Lake is a sweeping alpine lake located within the Altai Tavan Bogd National Park, connected to its twin, Khurgan Lake, by a short channel. Situated at an altitude of over 2,000 meters near the Chinese border, it is surrounded by the snow-capped peaks of the Altai Mountains and lush larch forests. The lake is famous for its clarity and the mirror-like reflections of the surrounding jagged summits on its deep blue surface. Travelers visit Khoton Lake to camp, fish for Mongolian grayling, and experience the hospitality of the local Kazakh and Tuvan nomads. The area features excellent hiking and horse trekking opportunities, with trails leading through flower-filled meadows and past ancient stone monuments, such as deer stones and burial mounds. The combination of alpine scenery and rich nomadic culture makes it one of the most rewarding destinations for those exploring the remote west. Access is via a long, rugged drive from Ölgii, requiring a sturdy 4x4 vehicle. Because of its proximity to the border, visitors must obtain a military border permit in advance. The best time to visit is from late June to early September when the landscape is most lively. It is a serene destination for those looking to escape into untouched nature and witness traditional mountain nomadic life at its most authentic.

Nearby cities

Ölgii

Ölgii is the center of the Kazakh minority in western Mongolia.

Tolbo Lake

A high-altitude freshwater lake along the road to Ölgii, known for its deep blue colors and historical significance.

Lake Achit

The largest freshwater lake in Uvs Province, a haven for migratory birds and nature enthusiasts.

Tsambagarav

A majestic, glacier-capped mountain in the Altai range, sacred to local Mongolian nomads.

Sheregesh

Siberia's premier ski resort, famous for its soft powder snow and the longest ski season in the country.

Gorny Altai (Aktru)

A spectacular high-altitude valley in the Altai Mountains, famous for its majestic glaciers and challenging mountain trails.

Ürümqi

The capital of the Xinjiang Autonomous Region, the most remote major city from any sea in the world.

Nature

Altai Nature Reserve

This mountain reserve protects the snow leopard and the biodiversity of Lake Teletskoye.

More places

Petroglyphs of the Mongolian Altai

The Petroglyphs in the Mongolian Altai constitute a massive open-air museum of prehistoric art.

Malchin Peak

One of the five sacred peaks of the Tavan Bogd massif, the only one that can be climbed without special climbing equipment.

Khüiten Peak

The highest point in Mongolia is located in the Altai Mountains and is permanently covered by glaciers.

Altai Tavan Bogd National Park

The Altai Tavan Bogd National Park in the far west of Mongolia is famous for its glaciated peaks, deep lakes, and ancient petroglyphs.

Nairamdal Peak

A significant mountain peak in the Altai that marks the precise tripoint between Mongolia, Russia, and China.

Dayan Mountain

A sacred mountain in Bayan-Ölgii Province, on whose slopes ancient petroglyphs and Bronze Age tombs can be found.

Saylyugem Mountains

A mountain range that serves as a natural barrier between the Mongolian steppe and the Russian Altai Republic.

Dariganga Nature Reserve

An area with volcanic cones, sand dunes, and sacred lakes that serves as a habitat for massive herds of the Mongolian gazelle.