SUBURBS OF ULAANBAATAR
Khovsgol Nuur
Try to imagine a 2760 sq km alpine lake with water so pure you can drink it. Then add dozens of 2000m mountains, thick pine forests and lush meadows with grazing yaks and horses. So you have a vague impression of Khovsgol Nuur, the pearl of Mongolia. It's the deepest lake in Central Asia, and the 14th largest source of fresh water all over the world. The lake is sacred to local Mongolians who refer to it as 'mother'. It's full of fish and the area is home to sheep, ibex, bear and moose, as well as over 200 species of birds. There are numerous caves around the lake, though they're hard to find without a guide. Three separate nationalities live in the area: Darkhad Mongols, Buryats and Tsaatan.
An amazing 90 rivers flow into the lake, but only a single river flows out - the Egiin Gol, which ultimately reaches Lake Baikal in Siberia. Khovsgol Nuur freezes in winter. Visitors can kayak on the lake when it's unfrozen, and hike or ride horses (or yakback) around it.
The lake is situated along the border with Russia. The southern boundary of Khovsgol Nuur is about 775km (480mi) north-west of Ulaanbaatar and is reachable by occasional plane, bus or your own jeep. The best time to visit it is spring time (around April and May), though. It's still very cold at this time and the lake may be frozen. The summer (July and August) is warmer but more crowded. Permits are required to visit the lake. They're available on the main road into Khovsgol Nuur National Park, a few km before the southern entrance at the town of Khatgal.
You are welcome to stay at the Khovsgol Lake for some time for fishing or just
having a rest. We would be glad to offer you to stay at comfortable camping
there. |
