Elsen Tasarkhai: The Mini Gobi of Mongolia
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Elsen Tasarkhai, a unique desert landscape blending sand dunes and lush hills in Mongolia's heart.
Elsen Tasarkhai, also known as the Sand Dune Mini Gobi, offers visitors a captivating glimpse into Mongolia's unique desert landscapes. Nestled between the Khangai Mountains, this stunning tourist attraction is a perfect blend of sand dunes and lush greenery, creating an otherworldly oasis for adventurers and nature lovers alike. Explore the vast dunes, ride camels, or simply bask in the beauty of this natural wonder. With opportunities for hiking and photography, Elsen Tasarkhai promises an unforgettable experience in the heart of Mongolia's wilderness.
A brief summary to Elsen Tasarkhai (Sand Dune Mini Gobi)
- 8MJQ+GRF, Högönö-Taranaiin-Hüree, Bulgan, MN
Local tips
- Visit during sunrise or sunset for stunning views and perfect lighting for photography.
- Bring plenty of water and sun protection, as the desert can get quite hot.
- Consider hiring a local guide to enhance your experience with insights into the area's culture and ecology.
- Don't miss the chance to try traditional Mongolian dishes offered by local families.
- Plan for a camel ride to explore the dunes and enjoy a unique perspective of the landscape.
Getting There
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Car Rental
If you are traveling by car, start from the nearest major city, such as Ulaanbaatar. Drive west towards the city of Kharkhorin, which is approximately 360 km from Ulaanbaatar. Take the A-6 highway, which will lead you through scenic landscapes of the Gobi Desert. Once you reach Kharkhorin, continue driving northwest for about 60 km until you reach the town of Högönö-Taranaiin-Hüree. From there, head towards the coordinates 47.3313° N, 103.6895° E, which will take you directly to Elsen Tasarkhai. Please note that you may encounter unpaved roads; a 4WD vehicle is recommended. There may be additional fuel costs, so ensure your vehicle is filled up before heading into more remote areas.
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Public Transportation
To reach Elsen Tasarkhai using public transportation, first, take a bus from Ulaanbaatar to Kharkhorin. Buses leave regularly from the central bus station and the journey takes about 6-7 hours. The fare is approximately 20,000 MNT (Mongolian Tugrik). Once in Kharkhorin, you can hire a local taxi or arrange for a shared minivan to take you to Högönö-Taranaiin-Hüree, which is about a 1-hour drive away. The taxi fare should be negotiated beforehand, typically ranging from 30,000 MNT to 50,000 MNT depending on the number of passengers and your bargaining skills. Once you arrive in Högönö-Taranaiin-Hüree, you can either walk or arrange for a local guide to take you to Elsen Tasarkhai, which is approximately 12 km away.
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Guided Tour
Consider booking a guided tour that includes transportation to Elsen Tasarkhai. Many tour operators in Ulaanbaatar offer packages that cover transportation, meals, and accommodation. This option typically costs between 150,000 MNT to 300,000 MNT per person depending on the length of the tour and included services. Tours often depart from Ulaanbaatar and include stops at other attractions in the Gobi Desert, making for a comprehensive experience. Ensure to verify the itinerary and what is included in the price before booking.
Discover more about Elsen Tasarkhai (Sand Dune Mini Gobi)
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