Orkhon Waterfall (Ulaan Tsutgalan)

The Orkhon Waterfall, locally referred to as Ulaan Tsutgalan, is situated in the Övörkhangai Province of central Mongolia. It was formed approximately 20,000 years ago following a series of volcanic eruptions and seismic activities that altered the path of the Ulaan River. The water plunges from a height of about 20 meters over a dark basalt cliff into the Orkhon River valley. With a width of around 10 meters, it stands as the largest waterfall in Mongolia and is a key feature of the Orkhon Valley Cultural Landscape, a UNESCO World Heritage site. During the wet summer months, the waterfall displays its full power, while in winter, it often freezes entirely into a massive pillar of ice. The surrounding area is defined by volcanic formations and expansive grasslands that have supported nomadic pastoralism for millennia. As a major natural landmark, it represents the raw geological history and cultural heritage of the Mongolian heartland.

Nearby cities

Tsetserleg

Tsetserleg translates to 'garden' and is considered one of the most beautiful provincial towns in Mongolia.

Tsenkher Hot Springs

Natural geothermal springs located in a lush mountain valley, offering relaxation in mineral-rich waters.

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Khustain Naiman Nuur

An alpine paradise featuring eight volcanic lakes in the Khangai Mountains, ideal for trekking and horse riding.

History & landmarks

Taikhar Rock (Taikhar Chuluu)

Taikhar Chuluu is a massive, 20-meter high granite block that mysteriously stands in the middle of the vast plain by the Tamir River.

Khorgo Volcano

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

Terkhiin Tsagaan Nuur

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

Khongoryn Els

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

Nature

Orkhon River

Mongolia's longest river flows through a historically rich valley that was once the center of great nomadic empires.

More places

Tsenkher Hot Springs

The Tsenkher hot springs are hidden deep in the forested mountains of the Arkhangai province.

Khöshöö Tsaidam Monuments

The Khöshöö Tsaidam Monuments in the Orkhon Valley are vital 8th-century stone inscriptions.

Khangai Mountains

This green and water-rich mountain range in the center of the country is characterized by vast alpine meadows and dense larch forests.

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Tarvagatai Range

An extensive mountain range covered with dense coniferous forests, forming an important watershed in central Mongolia.

Tövkhön Monastery

Tövkhön Monastery is perched spectacularly on a rocky mountain peak surrounded by dense forests.