Arvaikheer - Discovering Mongolia

Travelling to Arvaikheer

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Arvaikheer, a pretty good destination in Mongolia (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Arvaikheer and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Arvaikheer, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Mongolia, here's everything to know about Arvaikheer for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Arvaikheer

Arvaikheer is the capital city of the Övörkhangai Province in Mongolia. It is located in the central part of the country and has a population of around 31,000. The city is surrounded by the Khangai Mountains and is known for its beautiful natural scenery. Arvaikheer also serves as an important economic center for the region, with industries such as agriculture, mining, and manufacturing. Visitors can enjoy hiking or horseback riding in the nearby mountains, as well as exploring local cultural attractions such as the Museum of Övörkhangai Aimag and the Erdene Zuu Monastery.

What to visit in Arvaikheer

Arvaikheer is a small city located in the center of Mongolia. Despite being small, the city offers several tourist attractions that are worth visiting. Here are some of the top tourist attractions in Arvaikheer: 1. Kharkhorin Rock Art - This is a collection of over 10,000 petroglyphs (rock carvings) located about 20 km from Arvaikheer. These carvings date back to between 3000-1500 BC and include depictions of animals, people, and abstract symbols.
2. Tsenkher Hot Springs - Located about 50 km from Arvaikheer, these hot springs are a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. The water is mineral-rich and said to have healing properties.
3. Zayain Khüree Monastery - This is a Buddhist monastery located in the city of Arvaikheer. It was built in the 17th century and has been restored in recent years. Visitors can see the beautiful architecture and learn about the history of the monastery.
4. Khujirt National Park - Located about 80 km from Arvaikheer, this national park is home to stunning natural scenery and wildlife such as ibex, argali sheep, and marmots. Visitors can hike, camp, and go horseback riding in the park.
5. Bayan Khaan Mountain - This is a beautiful mountain located about 40 km from Arvaikheer. Visitors can hike to the top for stunning views of the surrounding area.
6. Gobi-Altai Mountains - These mountains are located to the south of Arvaikheer and are part of the Gobi Desert. They are known for their rugged beauty and are a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Overall, Arvaikheer and its surroundings offer some of the most enchanting natural beauty and historic landmarks Mongolia has to offer.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Mongolia, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Arvaikheer.

When to go on holiday to Arvaikheer

The best time to visit Arvaikheer, Mongolia is during the summer months of June to August. During this time, the weather is warm and dry, making it perfect for outdoor activities like hiking, bird watching and horse riding. However, it can get cold at night, so it's important to bring warm clothes. If you're interested in the Naadam Festival, which takes place in July, this is a great time to visit as well. In the winter months, the weather can be extremely cold with temperatures dropping well below freezing, making it more of a destination for winter sports enthusiasts.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Arvaikheer

There are different ways to get to Arvaikheer, Mongolia depending on your starting point. Here are some possible options: 1. By plane: The nearest airport to Arvaikheer is Altai Airport (LTI), which is located about 220km away. However, there are not many flights to this airport and they are subject to frequent cancellations due to weather conditions. Alternatively, you can take a flight to Chinggis Khaan International Airport in Ulaanbaatar, which is about 380km away from Arvaikheer, and then take a bus or a taxi to Arvaikheer.
2. By bus: There are regular buses that connect Ulaanbaatar to Arvaikheer. The journey takes around 8-10 hours and the buses leave from the Dragon Center bus station in Ulaanbaatar. The road conditions can be challenging, so be prepared for a bumpy ride.
3. By car: You can hire a private car or a taxi from Ulaanbaatar to Arvaikheer. This is a more expensive option but it gives you more flexibility and allows you to stop at different points of interest along the way.
4. By train: There is no direct train connection to Arvaikheer. The nearest train station is in Choir, which is about 150km away. From there, you can take a bus or a taxi to Arvaikheer.
Whichever option you choose, make sure to plan your journey well in advance and check the weather conditions as they can affect transportation in Mongolia.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Arvaikheer, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Arvaikheer

Arvaikheer is a city located in Mongolia, and the local cuisine is rich in flavor with a variety of meat dishes, dairy products, and vegetables. Here are some typical foods of Arvaikheer with a short description for each of them: 1. Buuz: Buuz is a traditional Mongolian dumpling made with minced beef or mutton, onions, and various spices. They are often steamed and served hot with a spicy dipping sauce.
2. Khuushuur: Khuushuur is another traditional Mongolian dish consisting of deep-fried meat turnovers. They are made with minced lamb or beef and various spices and are often served with a side of pickles.
3. Airag: Airag is a fermented mare's milk beverage that is popular in Mongolia. It is slightly alcoholic and has a sour, tangy taste. 4. Aaruul: Aaruul is a type of dried curd made from cow's or yak's milk. It is often eaten as a snack and used as a topping for various dishes.
5. Boortsog: Boortsog is a type of deep-fried pastry that is commonly eaten as a sweet snack in Mongolia. They are made with flour, butter, and sugar and have a crunchy texture.
6. Tsuivan: Tsuivan is a noodle dish made with stir-fried meat and vegetables. The noodles are often made from wheat flour and are served with a side of pickled vegetables.
7. Tarag: Tarag is another type of fermented dairy product that is similar to yogurt. It is made from cow's or goat's milk and has a slightly sour taste.
These are some of the typical foods of Arvaikheer that you can try on your trip to Mongolia.
You can find general info about typical foods in Mongolia here.

Is Arvaikheer an expensive destination for tourists?

Arvaikheer is not generally considered an expensive destination for tourists, as the cost of living in Mongolia is generally lower than in many other countries. However, the cost of travel and tourism in Arvaikheer may depend on the type of accommodation, transportation, tours, and activities you choose.
Accommodation options in Arvaikheer can range from budget guesthouses to luxury hotels, so you can choose according to your budget. Local transportation options like buses and shared taxis are relatively cheap, but private tours and transportation can be more expensive.
Activities, such as horseback riding, hiking, and camel trekking, can also vary in cost depending on the length and level of service.
Overall, Arvaikheer can be a relatively affordable destination for budget travelers, but the cost can increase if you choose higher-end options.

Where to find accomodation in Arvaikheer

Arvaikheer is a small town in Mongolia that serves as a gateway to the nearby attractions like the Khangai Mountains, Khamar Monastery, and Tsenkher Hot Springs. The town itself is not very large and does not have many accommodation options. However, there are a few areas in and around Arvaikheer where you can find accommodation: 1. City Center: The city center of Arvaikheer has a few hotels and guesthouses that are conveniently located close to shops, restaurants, and the local market.
2. Tsenkher Hot Springs: If you plan to visit the Tsenkher Hot Springs, you can find accommodation options nearby. There are a few guesthouses and resorts in this area that offer natural hot spring pools.
3. Khamar Monastery: The Khamar Monastery is about 20 kilometers outside of Arvaikheer. If you want to stay closer to this attraction, there are a few guesthouses and homestays located nearby.
4. Khangai Mountains: The Khangai Mountains are a bit further away from Arvaikheer, but you can find accommodation options in the nearby town of Tsetserleg. This town is about 2-3 hours away from Arvaikheer and offers a few hotels and guesthouses.
You can check hotel prices at Arvaikheer here:
Booking.com

Is Arvaikheer a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Arvaikheer is generally considered a safe place for tourists to visit. However, like any place in the world, it's important to take precautions and be aware of your surroundings. Keep your valuables secure, lock your accommodations and vehicles, and avoid walking alone at night in isolated areas. It's also a good idea to familiarize yourself with local customs and laws before you arrive. Overall, by taking these simple steps, you can have a safe and enjoyable trip to Arvaikheer.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Mongolia here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Arvaikheer.

What type of travelers will enjoy Arvaikheer the most?

Arvaikheer in Mongolia is a place that would appeal to travelers who are interested in experiencing the Mongolian culture while enjoying outdoor activities. It is a great destination for those who are looking for an immersive cultural experience, as well as for adventure lovers.
Families can enjoy the vast stretches of open space, the unique and fascinating nomadic culture of the region, and the opportunities to learn about the animals that are central to the livelihood of those living in the region.
Young people looking for fun can enjoy adventurous activities like horseback riding or trekking, as well as indulging in delicious Mongolian food and drink.
Couples can enjoy the serene beauty of the landscapes, go on romantic hikes, or enjoy relaxing in the Mongolian way of life.
In general, Arvaikheer is an ideal place for those looking for an authentic experience of Mongolia, and for those who enjoy nature, adventure, culture, and relaxation.

How to get around Arvaikheer

The most common form of transportation in Arvaikheer is by using taxis, which operate as shared minibuses known as "marshrutkas" and run throughout the city. Additionally, you also have the option to rent a car or a motorcycle if you prefer to have your own mode of transportation. However, keep in mind that the roads in Arvaikheer can be difficult to navigate, so it's recommended to have some driving experience in Mongolia before renting a vehicle.

What to see around Arvaikheer

Sure, here are some nice places you can visit in a day trip from Arvaikheer: 1. Khorgo Terkh National Park: This park is home to stunning landscapes including volcanic peaks, hot springs, and beautiful lakes.
2. Tsenkher Hot Springs: Located in the Tsenkher Valley, these hot springs offer a relaxing escape surrounded by scenic beauty.
3. Khar Zurkhnii Khiid Monastery: This monastery is a great place to learn about the local culture and history, as well as to enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
4. Erdene Zuu Monastery: This is one of the oldest and most important monasteries in Mongolia, located near the city of Kharkhorin. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must-see destination.
5. Orkhon Waterfall: This stunning waterfall is located in the Orkhon Valley and is a popular destination for hiking and picnicking.
6. Amarbayasgalant Monastery: This impressive monastery is one of the largest in Mongolia and is located in a beautiful valley surrounded by mountains.
7. Tuvkhun Monastery: This is a unique monastery located in the hills, which can only be reached by foot. The hike is well worth it for the stunning views and peaceful atmosphere.
8. Khuisiin Naiman Nuur National Park: This is an area of incredible natural beauty with pristine lakes, waterfalls and rugged mountains.
For every travel information about Mongolia you can click here.

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