Lake Khuvsgul: Mongolia's blue pearl in the northern forest

Why visit Lake Khuvsgul

Mongolians call Khuvsgul the blue pearl, and the first view across its clear water to the mountains explains why. After the open steppe, the forest, wildflowers and cool air feel completely different. It is a place for unhurried days: riding along the shore, hiking to viewpoints, kayaking in calm bays and evenings by the fire at a lakeside camp.

Khatgal and the west shore

The village of **Khatgal** at the southern tip is the main base, with guesthouses, small shops and horse trek operators. From here a dirt road runs up the west shore past a string of ger camps around Jankhai and Toilogt, many on forested headlands with views across the water. The east shore is wilder and harder to reach, best explored on a multi day horse trek.

Things to do

**Horse riding** is the classic activity, from day rides out of Khatgal to treks of a week or more around the lake. In summer you can **kayak** or take a boat trip, though the water is cold for swimming. Hikers climb the hills behind the camps for wide views. Birdwatchers come for the waterfowl and forest species.

The reindeer herders

In the remote taiga west of the lake live the **Dukha**, also called the Tsaatan, a small community of reindeer herding families. Visiting them involves a long drive to Tsagaannuur and then a horse ride of a day or more into the forest. Go only with an operator who works fairly with the community, and respect their wishes about photos and visits.

The Ice Festival

In early March, the frozen lake hosts the **Khuvsgul Ice Festival**, with horse sledding, ice skating, tug of war, ice sculptures and shamanic ceremonies. It is a magical experience if you are prepared for serious cold, with the right clothing and a warm place to stay.

On the way: Moron and the deer stones

The provincial capital **Moron** has the nearest airport, banks and markets. Just outside town, the **Uushigiin Uver** site holds Bronze Age deer stones carved with flying deer. Overland routes from Ulaanbaatar often pass the extinct volcano of **Uran Togoo** and the Amarbayasgalant monastery.

Where to stay

Lakeside ger camps range from simple to comfortable, with wood stoves in the gers and shared bathrooms in most. Khatgal guesthouses are the budget option and good for arranging treks. Book ahead for July and August, when Mongolian families also holiday here.

Getting there

Fly from Ulaanbaatar to Moron, then drive a couple of hours to Khatgal, or travel overland in around two days. Many travellers combine the lake with the Orkhon valley on a longer loop.

Practical tips

Nights are cold even in July, and summer brings rain and insects, so pack layers and repellent. A national park fee applies; confirm current rules locally. Plan your route with the free trip planner.

A sample trip

A relaxed plan is to fly to Moron, spend three nights at a camp on the west shore and use the days for a long ride, a hike and a boat trip, before flying back. With more time, travel overland from Ulaanbaatar through Amarbayasgalant and Uran Togoo, spend a week around the lake and continue to the reindeer herders, then head south to Tsetserleg and the Orkhon valley. Allow spare days, since rain can turn tracks to mud.