Lake Khövsgöl, Mongolia Travel Guide

Discover the pristine beauty and rich culture of Lake Khövsgöl, Mongolia's Blue Pearl, nestled amidst lush forests and majestic mountains.

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Lake Khövsgöl

Nestled in the northern reaches of Mongolia, Lake Khövsgöl is often referred to as the Blue Pearl due to its crystal-clear waters and stunning natural beauty. This ancient lake, which is the younger sister of Siberia's Lake Baikal, boasts an impressive depth and a rich biodiversity that will captivate nature enthusiasts. Surrounded by lush forests and majestic mountains, the lake offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Visitors to Lake Khövsgöl can enjoy a wide range of outdoor activities. The lake is perfect for kayaking, fishing, and swimming during the summer months. In winter, the frozen lake provides a unique opportunity for ice skating and dog sledding. The surrounding national park is home to diverse wildlife, including ibex, moose, and Siberian deer, making it a paradise for wildlife watchers and photographers. The local Tsaatan people, who are reindeer herders, add a unique cultural dimension to the region. Tourists can learn about their traditional way of life, visit their camps, and even ride a reindeer. The area also offers several hiking trails that lead to breathtaking viewpoints, providing panoramic views of the lake and its pristine surroundings. Whether you're seeking adventure or tranquility, Lake Khövsgöl is a destination that promises an unforgettable experience.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Lake Khövsgöl.

Visit during the summer months for the best weather and a wide range of activities.
Pack warm clothing if visiting in winter, as temperatures can drop significantly.
Consider hiring a local guide to learn about the Tsaatan culture and explore less-known trails.
Bring insect repellent, especially if you plan to hike in the surrounding forests.
Respect local customs and traditions when visiting Tsaatan camps.

Destinations in Lake Khövsgöl

Resorts, valleys and scenic spots worth a trip of their own.

Khuvsgul Lake

Explore Lake Khövsgöl: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Top Attractions & Sightseeing in Lake Khövsgöl

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

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Ugii Lake

Ugii Lake: A serene oasis in Mongolia's Arkhangai region, perfect for swimming, fishing, and enjoying nature's stunning beauty.

4.5

The Chingunjav Square

Explore the breathtaking landscapes and rich biodiversity of Chingunjav Square in Khovsgol, a must-visit national park in Mongolia.

4.4

Terkhiin Tsagaan Lake

Explore the breathtaking beauty of Terkhiin Tsagaan Lake in Arkhangai, Mongolia, a perfect getaway for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

4.6

ART 88 RESORT

Discover ART 88 Resort, a perfect blend of excitement and tranquility, nestled near the stunning Khuvsgul Lake in Mongolia.

4.2

Best landmarks in Lake Khövsgöl

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Gorkhi Terelj National Park

Discover the breathtaking landscapes and rich culture at Gorkhi Terelj National Park, Mongolia's stunning natural escape near Ulaanbaatar.

4.6

Kempinski Hotel Khan Palace Ulaanbaatar

Experience unparalleled luxury and Mongolian hospitality at the Kempinski Hotel Khan Palace in Ulaanbaatar.

4.5

Khuvsgul Lake Hotel

Discover the serene beauty and rich cultural heritage of Mongolia at Khuvsgul Lake Hotel in the heart of Ulaanbaatar.

4.4

Altai Tavan Bogd National Park

Explore the breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage of Altai Tavan Bogd National Park in Mongolia, a haven for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

4.7

Best restaurants in Lake Khövsgöl

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DeQuattro by Rosewood

Experience authentic Italian cuisine at DeQuattro by Rosewood in Ulaanbaatar—where tradition meets modern elegance.

4.6

Hazara Indian Restaurant

Discover the best Indian cuisine in Ulaanbaatar at Hazara Indian Restaurant - where authentic flavors meet warm hospitality.

4.5

The Bull Hot Pot Restaurant

Discover Ulaanbaatar's culinary delight at The Bull Hot Pot Restaurant - an unforgettable hot pot experience awaits!

4.3

Route 22 Restaurant & Wine Lounge

Experience a culinary journey at Route 22 Restaurant & Wine Lounge in Ulaanbaatar - where Mongolian tradition meets international flavors.

4.3

Best bars in Lake Khövsgöl

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Grand Khaan Irish Pub

Experience the warmth of Irish hospitality at Grand Khaan Irish Pub, where hearty meals and lively atmosphere await in Ulaanbaatar.

4.2

Hazara Indian Restaurant

Experience authentic Indian cuisine at Hazara Indian Restaurant, a vibrant culinary gem in Ulaanbaatar with an array of flavorful dishes.

4.5

Best Western Premier Tuushin Hotel

Discover luxury and comfort at the Best Western Premier Tuushin Hotel, the perfect base for exploring Ulaanbaatar's vibrant culture and attractions.

4.3

Choijin Temple Restaurant

Discover the exquisite Mediterranean flavors at Choijin Temple Restaurant, a must-visit culinary destination in Ulaanbaatar for discerning food lovers.

4.5

Best nightclubs in Lake Khövsgöl

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Fat Cat Jazz Club Ulaanbaatar

Discover the vibrant Ulaanbaatar nightlife at Fat Cat Jazz Club, a top destination for live jazz, local talent, and unforgettable experiences.

4.7

CHOCO CLUB ULAANBAATAR

Discover the vibrant nightlife of Ulaanbaatar at CHOCO CLUB, where disco meets lounge for an unforgettable evening of music and dance.

4.1

MINT Club

Discover Ulaanbaatar's vibrant nightlife at MINT Club, where music, dancing, and cocktails await you in a stylish setting.

3.7

ZU CLUB

ZU CLUB in Ulaanbaatar offers an electrifying nightlife experience with top DJs, vibrant ambiance, and a dance floor that keeps the energy high.

3.9

Best shops in Lake Khövsgöl

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State Department Store

Experience the essence of Ulaanbaatar at the State Department Store, where luxury meets local culture in a premier shopping destination.

4.3

Ulaanbaatar Department Store

Discover the vibrant shopping scene at Ulaanbaatar Department Store, where local culture meets international brands in a unique retail experience.

4.2

Hunnu Mall

Discover Hunnu Mall in Ulaanbaatar, a premier shopping destination blending local culture with global brands in a vibrant setting.

4.3

Shangri-La Centre

Explore the Shangri-La Centre in Ulaanbaatar, your ultimate shopping destination for luxury brands, diverse dining, and vibrant entertainment.

4.6

Explore Lake Khövsgöl on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Lake Khövsgöl, mapped for you.

Lake Khövsgöl Essentials

Lake Khövsgöl is located in the northern region of Mongolia, close to the border with Russia. The most common way to reach the lake is by flying into Chinggis Khaan International Airport in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia's capital. From Ulaanbaatar, you can take a domestic flight to Murun, the provincial capital of Khövsgöl Aimag. The flight takes about 1.5 hours. Alternatively, you can take a bus or hire a car for the journey from Ulaanbaatar to Murun, which takes approximately 12-14 hours by road. From Murun, it is another 100 kilometers to Lake Khövsgöl, which can be covered by local transport, taxi, or car rental.
Once you arrive in Murun, you can hire a taxi, rent a car, or use local buses to reach Lake Khövsgöl. Within the Lake Khövsgöl area, transportation options include taxis, bicycles, and walking. There are also boat services available for exploring the lake itself. For those interested in a more traditional experience, horseback riding is a popular and authentic way to travel around the area.
The official currency in Mongolia is the Mongolian Tögrög (MNT). Credit cards are accepted in some hotels, restaurants, and shops, especially in larger towns like Murun. However, it is advisable to carry cash, particularly when traveling to more remote areas around Lake Khövsgöl. ATMs are available in Murun, but it is wise to withdraw sufficient cash in Ulaanbaatar before embarking on your journey to ensure you have enough funds.
Lake Khövsgöl is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, standard travel precautions are recommended. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. While the region is relatively safe, it is always best to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but it's always good practice to be cautious.
In case of an emergency, dial 102 for police, 101 for fire, and 103 for medical emergencies. The nearest medical facilities are located in Murun, so it is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, including evacuation if necessary. For minor health issues, there are pharmacies in Murun where you can purchase over-the-counter medications. It is also a good idea to carry a basic first aid kit when traveling in remote areas.
Fashion: Do dress in layers, as the weather can be unpredictable. Avoid overly revealing clothing out of respect for local customs. Religion: Do respect local religious practices and traditions. Be mindful when visiting Buddhist temples and avoid touching religious artifacts. Public Transport: Do be respectful and patient when using local transport. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake and a smile. It's customary to use both hands when giving or receiving something. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and accept food and drink offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.
To experience Lake Khövsgöl like a local, consider staying in a traditional ger (yurt) with a local family. This offers a unique insight into the nomadic lifestyle. Participate in local festivals and events, such as the Ice Festival in winter and the Naadam Festival in summer. Engage with locals, who are often very welcoming and eager to share their culture and traditions. Don't miss out on tasting traditional Mongolian dishes, such as khuushuur (fried dumplings) and buuz (steamed dumplings). For a unique experience, take a boat trip on the lake or go horseback riding along its shores.

When is the best time to visit Lake Khövsgöl?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Lake Khövsgöl

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Lake Khövsgöl. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloСайн байна уу
  [Sain baina uu]
- GoodbyeБаяртай
  [Bayartai]
- YesТийм
  [Tiim]
- NoҮгүй
  [Ügüi]
- Please/You're welcomeУучлаарай
  [Uuchlaarai]
- Thank youБаярлалаа
  [Bayarlalaa]
- Excuse me/SorryУучлаарай
  [Uuchlaarai]
- How are you?Та хэр байна вэ?
  [Ta kher baina ve?]
- Fine. And you?Сайн. Та?
  [Sain. Ta?]
- Do you speak English?Та Англиар ярьдаг уу?
  [Ta Angliar yartag uu?]
- I don't understandБи ойлгохгүй байна
  [Bi oilgokhgui baina]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseБи менюг харахыг хүсч байна
  [Bi menuug kharakhyg khüsch baina]
- I don't eat meatБи мах иддэггүй
  [Bi makh iddeggui]
- Cheers!Сайн уу!
  [Sain uu!]
- I would like to pay, pleaseБи төлбөрийг төлмөөр байна
  [Bi tölböriig tölmöör baina]
- Help!Туслаач!
  [Tuslaach!]
- Go away!Яваач!
  [Yavaach!]
- Call the Police!Цагдаа дуудна уу!
  [Tsagdaa duudna uu!]
- Call a doctor!Эмч дуудна уу!
  [Emch duudna uu!]
- I'm lostБи алга болсон
  [Bi alga bolson]
- I'm illБи өвчтэй
  [Bi üvchtei]
- I'd like to buy...Би ... худалдаж авахыг хүсч байна
  [Bi ... khudaldaj avakhyg khüsch baina]
- I'm just lookingБи зүгээр хараад байна
  [Bi zügere kharaad baina]
- How much is it?Энэ ямар үнэтэй вэ?
  [Ene yamar ünetei ve?]
- That's too expensiveЭнэ хэт үнэтэй
  [Ene khet ünetei]
- Can you lower the price?Үнэ буулгаж өгч болох уу?
  [Üne buulgaj ögch bolokh uu?]
- What time is it?Одоо хэдийн цаг вэ?
  [Odoo khediin tsag ve?]
- It's one o'clockНэг цаг болж байна
  [Neg tsag bolzh baina]
- Half past (10)Хагас (10) болж байна
  [Khagas (10) bolzh baina]
- MorningӨглөө
  [Öglöö]
- AfternoonҮдээс хойш
  [Üdees khoish]
- EveningОрой
  [Oroij]
- YesterdayӨчигдөр
  [Öchigdör]
- TodayӨнөөдөр
  [Önöödör]
- TomorrowМаргааш
  [Margaash]
- 11
  [1]
- 22
  [2]
- 33
  [3]
- 44
  [4]
- 55
  [5]
- 66
  [6]
- 77
  [7]
- 88
  [8]
- 99
  [9]
- 1010
  [10]
- Where's a/the...?Хаана ... байна вэ?
  [Khaana ... baina ve?]
- What's the address?Хаяг нь юу вэ?
  [Khayag ni yu ve?]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Нарийн зурган дээр надад харуулж өгч болох уу?
  [Nariin zurgan deer nadad kharuulj ögch bolokh uu?]
- When's the next (bus)?Дараагийн (автобус) хэзээ ирэх вэ?
  [Daraagiin (avtobus) khedze irikh ve?]
- A ticket (to ....)Билет (.... руу)
  [Bilet (.... ruu)]

History of Lake Khövsgöl

Lake Khövsgöl, often referred to as the 'Younger Sister' of Lake Baikal, was formed over two million years ago. It is one of the ancient lakes of the world and holds nearly 70% of Mongolia's fresh water. With a depth of up to 262 meters, it is the second-largest freshwater lake in Asia by volume. The lake's origins are tied to the Baikal Rift Zone, making it a significant site for geological studies and offering insights into the Earth’s tectonic activities.
The region around Lake Khövsgöl has been inhabited for thousands of years by various indigenous groups, including the Darkhad and Tsaatan people. The Tsaatan, also known as the Dukha, are reindeer herders who have maintained their nomadic lifestyle for centuries. These groups have developed a deep spiritual connection with the lake, considering it sacred and integral to their cultural identity.
During the 16th and 17th centuries, Buddhism spread across Mongolia, reaching the remote regions around Lake Khövsgöl. Several monasteries were established in the area, serving as centers of learning and spiritual practice. The influence of Buddhism is evident in the local customs, rituals, and the numerous ovoos (sacred stone heaps) that dot the landscape around the lake.
In the 20th century, Mongolia came under Soviet influence, which brought both development and environmental challenges to the region. During this period, there were significant efforts to study and conserve the unique ecosystem of Lake Khövsgöl. The lake was designated as a National Park in 1992, ensuring the protection of its pristine waters and diverse wildlife. This designation has played a crucial role in preserving the natural beauty and ecological significance of the area.
Today, Lake Khövsgöl holds great cultural significance for the Mongolian people. It is the site of the annual Ice Festival, which attracts visitors from around the world. The festival celebrates the lake’s frozen surface with ice sculptures, traditional games, and cultural performances. The lake also remains a vital resource for the local communities, supporting fishing, tourism, and traditional livelihoods.