Karakorum - Discovering Mongolia

Travelling to Karakorum

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Karakorum, 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 Karakorum 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 Karakorum, 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 Karakorum for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Karakorum

Karakorum is an ancient city located in central Mongolia, about 360 kilometers west of the capital city Ulaanbaatar. It was the capital city of the Mongol Empire in the 13th century and one of the most important cities in the history of Central Asia. Today, it is a popular tourist destination in Mongolia, known for its historical significance, ancient ruins, temples and monasteries. The city is also a gateway to the nearby Erdene Zuu Monastery, one of the oldest monasteries in Mongolia, and the Kharkhorin Rock, a unique and scenic landscape formation.

What to visit in Karakorum

Sure, here are some of the top tourist attractions in Karakorum, Mongolia: 1. Erdene Zuu Monastery: This is the most famous and oldest Buddhist monastery in Mongolia built in the 16th century. It's located in the center of Karakorum, and it has impressive architecture featuring Buddhist stupas, temples, and ornate gateways. 2. Tumen Amgalant: This is a historical site located in the Orkhon Valley, around 20km from Karakorum. It is a complex of ruins featuring several monuments, including the remains of a palace, temple, and walls. These ruins date back to the 8th-century and are said to be the remains of the capital of the ancient Uighur Empire. 3. Shankh monastery: This monastery is located about 200 km from Karakorum and is one of the oldest and largest monasteries in Mongolia. It was founded in the 17th century and was an important center for learning and teaching Buddhism. The monastery contains many treasures such as Tibetan Buddhist paintings, sculptures, and ancient manuscripts.
4. Kharkhorin Museum: This museum is located in the center of Karakorum and displays artifacts from the ancient capital city of the Mongol Empire. Visitors can find various items ranging from weapons, coins, and jewelry to everyday objects. 5. Orkhon Waterfall: This waterfall is located approximately 25 km from Karakorum and is one of the most visited natural attractions in the area. The waterfall stands about 20 meters tall and is surrounded by lush green forests making it a scenic location.
These are some of the most popular tourist attractions in Karakorum, Mongolia. Visitors can learn more about the rich history and culture of Mongolia while exploring these places.
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 Karakorum.

When to go on holiday to Karakorum

The best time to visit Karakorum in Mongolia is during the summer months between June and September. During this time, the temperatures are mild, the skies are clear, and the countryside is in full bloom, making it an excellent time for outdoor activities and sightseeing. However, it is essential to note that as summer is the peak season, the area can be quite crowded during this time. If you are looking to avoid the crowds and experience a more tranquil atmosphere, you could also consider traveling during the shoulder season between April and May or October and November. During these months, the weather may be slightly cooler, but there are still many opportunities for adventure and exploration.

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

How to get to Karakorum

Karakorum is a small town in central Mongolia that was once the capital of the Mongolian Empire. Here are some ways to get there: 1. By road: You can take a bus or hire a car from Ulaanbaatar, which is about 360 km away. The journey takes around 7-8 hours, depending on road and weather conditions. 2. By train: The nearest train station is in Erdenet, which is about 115 km from Karakorum. From there, you can take a bus or taxi to reach Karakorum. 3. By air: The nearest airport is in Ulaanbaatar, and from there, you can take a domestic flight to Kharkhorin, which is about 40 km from Karakorum. Once you reach Karakorum, you can explore the town and visit the nearby historical sites such as the Erdene Zuu Monastery and the Orkhon Valley.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Karakorum, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Karakorum

Here are some typical foods of Karakorum, Mongolia along with a short description for each: 1. Buuz - steamed dumplings filled with mutton or beef and onions. 2. Khuushuur - deep-fried dumplings filled with ground beef or mutton and onions. 3. Tsuivan - stir-fried noodles with meat and vegetables. 4. Mongolian barbecue - grilled meat (usually beef or mutton) cooked on a hot plate. 5. Aaruul - dried curds made from fermented milk. It is often eaten as a snack or dessert.
6. Bantan - soup with vegetables, meat, and flour balls. 7. Airag - fermented mare's milk. It is often consumed during summer.
8. Khorkhog - meat (usually lamb or mutton) cooked with hot stones and vegetables in a metal pot. 9. Boortsog - deep-fried bread dough often served as a snack or dessert. 10. Suutei tsai - salty milk tea made from black tea, salt, and milk.
You can find general info about typical foods in Mongolia here.

Is Karakorum an expensive destination for tourists?

Karakorum, also known as Kharkhorin, is a popular destination for tourists as it is the ancient capital of the Mongol Empire and has numerous historical and cultural sites to visit. However, as it is a remote location and has limited tourist facilities, it can be relatively expensive for visitors.
Accommodation options in Karakorum are limited and prices can be high compared to other parts of Mongolia. Food and transportation can also be expensive due to the remote location.
That being said, the cost of visiting Karakorum can be managed by planning ahead, choosing budget-friendly accommodatons, and taking public transportation instead of private transfers. It is also possible to book tours and activities in advance to reduce costs.
Overall, while Karakorum may not be the cheapest destination in Mongolia, with careful planning and budgeting, it is still a worthwhile place to visit.

Where to find accomodation in Karakorum

In Karakorum (Mongolia), the best areas to find accommodation are the town of Karakorum itself, nearby Erdene Zuu Monastery, and nearby Terkh White Lake. These areas offer a variety of accommodations ranging from guesthouses to yurts. Keep in mind that Karakorum is a small town, so there aren't many options for accommodation, and it's advisable to book in advance, especially during peak season.
You can check hotel prices at Karakorum here:
Booking.com

Is Karakorum a safe destination for tourists?

Karakorum, also known as Kharkhorin, is generally safe for tourists. Mongolia is known for being a safe destination with low levels of crime, and Karakorum is no exception. However, as with any travel destination, it is important to take common safety precautions, such as being aware of your surroundings, avoiding walking alone at night, and keeping your valuables secure. It is also recommended to choose licensed and reputable tour operators to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience in Karakorum and throughout Mongolia.
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 Karakorum.

What type of travelers will enjoy Karakorum the most?

Karakorum is a destination that offers a unique experience to all types of travelers. However, it may be more appealing to couples and families who enjoy cultural exploration, outdoor activities, and adventure. Karakorum is the ancient capital of Mongolia and has a rich history and heritage, making it an ideal destination for cultural and historical enthusiasts. Families with children can enjoy the wide range of outdoor activities such as hiking, horseback riding, and visiting natural attractions. Young people seeking adventurous activities such as camping, trekking, and exploring off-the-beaten-path destinations will also find Karakorum a fascinating place to visit. Overall, Karakorum is a versatile destination that offers something unique and exciting for all types of travelers.

How to get around Karakorum

In Karakorum, most visitors use private cars, taxis or rent a jeep with a driver to move around. Public transportation such as buses or minibusses are available but they are less frequent and usually crowded. Alternatively, there is the option to hike or bike to some nearby attractions. It's always a good idea to book transportation in advance or through a local tour operator.

What to see around Karakorum

Sure, here are some amazing day trip destinations to explore from Karakorum in Mongolia: 1. Erdene Zuu Monastery - It is a 16th-century Buddhist monastery and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can see the beautiful architecture and explore the many temples and museums inside the monastery.
2. Tsenkher hot springs - It is located about 40 km from Karakorum and is famous for its hot water springs. You can relax in the hot water or enjoy hiking in the nearby mountains.
3. Orkhon Waterfall - It is one of the largest and most beautiful waterfalls in Mongolia, located on the Orkhon River about 130 km from Karakorum. You can enjoy stunning views of the waterfall and surrounding areas.
4. Tovkhon Monastery - It is a hidden monastery located on a mountain about 50 km from Karakorum. You can hike to the monastery and explore the ancient temple and meditation caves.
5. Elsen Tasarkhai sand dunes - It is a unique and breathtaking desert located about 80 km from Karakorum. You can ride camels and enjoy hiking on the massive sand dunes.
For every travel information about Mongolia you can click here.

Wild Trips is the Wikipedia of travel and this page was partly created with the help of AI: in the unfortunate case you find an error, please write to us to correct it... Thank you!
Follow us on Facebook if you like wild trips around the world and beautiful itineraries in Italy: https://www.facebook.com/wildtrips.