Khar Lake: A Serene Oasis in Khovd

Getting There

• Car

  From the main entrance of Terelj National Park, drive east along the main road (A-1) toward Ulaanbaatar. After approximately 30 km, you will come to a junction near the town of Zuunmod. Take the left fork onto the road heading towards Khovd for another 25 km. Continue following the signs for Khovd Lake, which will lead you through beautiful landscapes. Keep an eye on the GPS, as Khar Lake is located at coordinates 48.0747491, 93.2310604. Once you reach the lake area, look for parking spaces along the shore.

• Public Transportation

  To reach Khar Lake using public transportation, start from Terelj National Park by taking a shared minibus (known as a 'microbus') from the main entrance to Zuunmod. The fare is usually around 1,000 MNT (Mongolian Tugrik). Once in Zuunmod, you will need to switch to another minibus or a taxi that goes towards Khovd. Make sure to inform the driver you want to go to Khar Lake. The total fare from Zuunmod to Khar Lake could range from 5,000 to 10,000 MNT depending on the vehicle. The bus ride may take about 1.5 to 2 hours. Confirm with the driver that they will drop you off close to the lake.

• Hiking

  If you are feeling adventurous and already in Terelj National Park, you can hike to Khar Lake. Start from the main tourist area and follow the trails leading east. Ensure you have a good map or a GPS device, as the trails may not be well marked. The hike may take approximately 3 to 4 hours, depending on your pace. Bring plenty of water and snacks, as there are no facilities along the way. The scenic views along the trail are worth the effort!