Taiwan is an underrated destination. However, this post is about the underrated places in Taiwan. Taiwan has much to offer; from bubbling hot springs to golden waterfalls, this place is a treasure trove of scenic destinations.
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Where is Taiwan?
Officially known as the Republic of China, Taiwan is a country in East Asia. Taiwan has the Philippines as its southern neighbor, the People’s Republic of China on its northwest, and Japan on its northwest. The Portuguese named Taiwan “Ilha Formosa” which means “beautiful island”. The Portuguese gave this name when they sighted the island in 1542.
History of Taiwan
Taiwan’s earliest history of human inhabitation dates back to 3000 BC when an agricultural settlement was found here. These people are Taiwan’s indigenous people of Austronesia descent. The Dutch ruled Taiwan in the 17th century.
Around the same time, Hakka immigrants from China moved to Taiwan. Taiwan was briefly controlled by Spain who was driven out by 1642. In 1662, Koxinga established the House of Koxinga after defeating the Dutch.
After the Chinese Civil War, the Republic of China retreated to Taiwan. The “Taiwan Miracle” where it experienced rapid economic and industrial growth alongside Singapore and South Korea brought this country recognition.
Visa Requirements
Taiwan requires tourists to have at least 6 months validity on their passports. According to the Taiwanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs, citizens from select countries are visa-exempt for either 90, 30, or 14 days. This depends on the passport they are holding. For citizens which require a visa, the official portal to apply for an e-visa is at the Bureau of Consular Affairs at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Taiwan.
Taipei Metro
The Taipei Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) is aimed at reducing traffic congestion within the city limits. The first line began operations in 1996 and there are currently 6 lines with 131 stations in between.
How Much Does Taipei MRT Cost?
A single journey ticket costs around NT$30 ($1) and NT$160 ($5) based on distance traveled. A map complete with the estimated costs of the ride is on the Taipei MRT website.
How Much is the Taiwan MRT card?
Taiwan uses a contactless smartcard known as the EasyCard. This card is a must-have in Taiwan as it is used on all transport providers such as MRT, buses, Taiwan Railways, Taiwan Speed Rails, taxis, and ferries.
The Adult EasyCard costs NT$500 ($17) inclusive of top-up and deposit. The maximum amount allowed on this card is NT$10,000 ($358). Any unused fees and deposits are refundable.
Do People in Taiwan Speak English?
The national language of Taiwan is Taiwanese Mandarin, Taiwanese Hokkien, Taiwanese Hakka, Formosan, and Matsu. This being said, Taiwan is making an effort to turn into a Mandarin-English speaking nation by 2030.
English is used in the tourism sector. However, it is worth taking down the written name of the destination in Chinese to show the taxi drivers who may not have a grasp of the language. Spending on an offline language translator makes communicating while traveling easier.
The first underrated place in Taiwan is Hualien. Hualien is the largest and least populated county in Taiwan. The largest city in Hualien City. This city was originally Kiray by the Sakizaya Aborigines who live in this county.
This county faces the Pacific Ocean towards Japan’s Okinawa Prefecture. Check out the Best Things To Do in Hualien County, you will not be disappointed.
The second in our underrated places in Taiwan is Taichung. Taichung is the second-largest city in Taiwan. After the Sino-Japanese War in 1895, Japan had control over Taiwan and this city was renamed “Taichu”.
Taichung was formerly several hamlets scattered until Japan took over and began its “modern” development. The “modern” development led to the building of dams, levees, and a planned township. Taichung was nicknamed the “Kyoto of Formosa” during that period.
The third underrated place in Taiwan is Taipei. Taipei is the capital city of Taiwan. Taipei is an enclave within the New Taipei City and sits on an ancient lakebed, the Taipei Basin. During pre-historic times, Taipei Basin was home to the Ketagalan group of people whose language is now extinct.
Legend has it that the Ketagalan originally stayed on another island. However, a monster would appear and terrorize the villagers every night. The villagers were pushed to insanity and left without a choice, they chose to sail the seas.
In their voyage, they discovered what is now Taiwan. However, as the community grew, they drew straws to determine who would live where. Those with long straws continued living on fertile grounds whilst those with short straws moved to the mountains.
Famous Landmarks
One of its landmarks is the Taipei World Financial Center which is known as Taipei 101. This landmark was the world’s tallest structure from 2004 to 2009 until it was surpassed by Burj Khalifa in Dubai.
This 101-floor skyscraper was built to withstand typhoons and earthquakes which are common in Taiwan. The 101 floors symbolize the renewal of time. The main tower comprises 8 segments with 8 floors. In Chinese culture, the number 8 symbolizes abundance, good fortune, and prosperity.
The second famous landmark is the National Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hall. Sun Yat-sen is the “Father of the Nation” and the first president of the Republic of China.
The fourth in our underrated places in Taiwan is Tainan. Tainan is the oldest city in Taiwan and the fifth largest on the island. This is the oldest city as archaeological evidence points that this city has been inhabited for at least 31,000 years. The Siraya group of people dominated the landscape here.
This city is the “City of Snacks” due to the variety of food available at any time of the day. Read on to know the 19 Great Dishes in Tainan. Tainan is an underrated city worth visiting.
The fifth in our underrated places in Taiwan is Kaohsiung. Kaohsiung is the third-largest city in Taiwan and is known for its harbor rather than tourism. The Port of Kaohsiung was previously a lagoon and was developed into a harbor over several hundred years.
During the 16th and 17th centuries, Hoklo immigrants named this city Takau. Tainan was annexed and renamed Fongshan County in 1684. It began operations as a port in 1680. CNN Travel gives you 7 Reasons to Love Kaohsiung.
What are the Underrated Places in Taiwan?
Golden Waterfalls
Image Credit: Zairon (Wikipedia Commons)
The next in our underrated places in Taiwan is the Golden Waterfalls. This waterfall is known for its cascading golden rocks. For decades, the locals believed that the golden hue was a result of rampant mining activities nearby. This waterfall is located by the road.
Invest in a compact travel umbrella that is windproof, and portable with a convenient auto open and close function. The umbrella would protect you from the elements as there is no shade to view the golden waterfall.
The gold color is a result of heavy mineral deposits in the area. This waterfall is highly sulphuric and it is not advisable to swim in it. There is no entrance fee as this waterfall is a short drive 40-minute drive from Taipei along the North Coast Expressway.
Plan your day early and you can combine the Golden Waterfall, The Gold Museum, Yin Yang Sea, and the Elephant Trunk Rock as a day trip from Taipei.
This sea is a “half gold, half bluish-green” sea. The name of this sea came about due to the natural duality which is in line with the concept of Yin and Yang. The discoloration was from local mining activities nearby.
However, the color is from insoluble floating iron and a heavy concentration of pyrite. Pyrite is “Fool’s Gold”. This created the Yin Yang effect. There is no entrance fee to view the sea. For the adventurous, you can hike up Teapot Mountain for fantastic views of the sea and its surrounding.
The next in our underrated places in Taiwan is Jiufen. This town is famous for its Old Street and teahouses. The Old Street passes through the village. There are steep staircases and plenty of teahouses along the route. Jiufen was a filming location for the City of Sadness. It has a resemblance to the locations mentioned in Spirited Away.
Capture your memories in Jiufen with a 1,000-piece jigsaw puzzle that is perfect as a gift or simply to test your patience. The beautiful image would be worth framing, especially after your trip to Taiwan.
This artificial lake is a popular tourist destination as it is home to many temples. This lake is about 3 hours from Taipei with a distance of approximately 218 miles. The temples are Kaohsiung Confucius Temple, Spring and Autumn Pavilions, Dragon and Tiger Pagodas, and Chi-Ming Palace.
Ruins of the 13 Levels
Image Credit: Cuthbertwong (Wikipedia Commons)
This place is the “Potala Palace of Mountain Mines”. This abandoned place has the world’s longest pipe measuring 1.2 miles in length. Due to its abandoned derelict state, these ruins have been the backdrop for many music videos.
Do you know that the former name of this place was Shuinandong Smelter and it was the largest in Asia at one point in time?
This rock is located near Shen-Ao Port and is about 22 miles from Taipei. Erosions from monsoon rains and sea waves caused the formation of the rock.
Elephant Rock Structures Around the World
The first elephant rock structure around the world is in Neptune, Wisconsin in the United States. This Elephant Trunk Rock also goes by the name Devil’s Hitching Post and is on Highway 154. Interestingly, the rock structure here has been visible for over a century.
The second elephant rock structure is in Heimaey in Westman Island, Iceland. However, Westman Island sits at the split of two continental plates which make eruptions and earthquakes happen daily.
The third elephant rock structure is Elephant Trunk Hill in Guilin, China. The rock structure here resembles an elephant drinking water. This hill is at the confluence of Toahua and Li Rivers and has been a tourist destination since the Tang Dynasty.
This luxury hotel is located above Taipei City Hall MRT station and is next to the iconic Taipei 101. This hotel has 405 rooms decked in zodiac-inspired sculptures and map installations. Situated in the heart of the city, this hotel has a busy nightlife, endless retail therapy, and scrumptious cuisine.
This urban retreat prides itself on combining Eastern and Western influences in the design of this hotel. This hotel has 420 rooms and a rooftop swimming pool with a view of Taipei’s skyline. The hotel organizes daily activities throughout the week for guests.
This hotel prides itself on combining arts, culture, and living in one space. Humble House has 235 rooms with each room having displays of artistic work by international artists. Check out the Art Gallery within this hotel to know more.
Is Taiwan Worth Visiting?
Yes! Taiwan is one of the underrated destinations in the world. There is much to see and offer on that beautiful island. Scrumptious food, throbbing nightlife, and little-known places make Taiwan a must-visit at least once in a lifetime.
Mongolia is a land-locked nation steeped in history. The Mongol Empire was the largest empire the world had ever seen. Do you the famous landmarks in Mongolia?
If you are looking for answers to the questions below, you have landed on the right page.
Where is Mongolia?
Where are the seven major landmarks in Mongolia?
What are the official languages of Mongolia?
Which food is Mongolia famous for?
Is Mongolia Worth Visiting?
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on Mongolia
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. This means, that if you click on the link and purchase the item, I will earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Please read my Disclaimer Policy for more information.
Mongolia is between Russia and China. This country is one of the least populated countries with a population of 3.3 million people in 2021. About 30% of its population maintains their nomadic lifestyles. Here, horses play a major role in daily life.
Origin of Name
No one knows how Mongolia got its name. The Mongolian word for Mongolia either means “river” or “mountain”. The name may have come from Mugulu who was the founder of the Roran Khaganate tribe.
Temujin or Genghis Khan was the last leader of the Khamag Mongols tribe. By the 13th century, “Mongols” was an umbrella term for tribes under Genghis Khan. According to the Constitution of Mongolia, its official name is Mongol Uls or Mongolia.
Mongolian history is divided into prehistoric, ancient, medieval, Qing dynasty, and modern.
Prehistory
The extinct homo erectus lived in Mongolia about 800,000 years ago. This is based on stone tools found in the Gobi desert. The prehistoric sites are Khoid Tsenkheriin Agui and Tsagaan Agui in Bayankhongor Province.
The main feature of the Bronze Age and the early Iron Age in Mongolia is the discovery of slab graves in northern, eastern, and central Mongolia.
Ancient
The beginning of Mongolia began in the 3rd century BC with the formation of the Xiongnu Empire. This empire is the amalgamation of several tribal communities.
The written records of this tribe were in the 5th century when they repeatedly invaded the smaller kingdoms in North China. This led to the building of the Great Wall of China. The nomadic tribes of Xiongnu, Xianbei, Rouran Khaganate, Turkic Khaganate, Uyghur Khaganate, and Liao Dynasty once ruled the plains of Mongolia.
Medieval
This was the time of tribal rivalries. Khamag Mongol is a federation of Mongol tribes in the region. The chief of this confederation was Yesukhei, Temujin’s father. After a series of tribal conflicts, Temujin successfully consolidated the tribal communities of Mongolia.
Qing Dynasty
The Qing Dynasty ruled Inner and Outer Mongolia in the 16th and 17th centuries. The Altan Tobchi or Golden Chronicles was written in this period. This book is the second most revered book after The Secret History of the Mongols.
Modern
The Mongolian Revolution of 1990 was a turning point in the nation’s history. This peaceful hunger strike overthrew the Mongolian People’s Republic that paved the path towards a democratic nation.
Independence
Mongolia attained independence on 29th December 1911 from the Qing Dynasty. This was after the Xinhai Revolution where Bogd Khan was the Head of State. It was the fall of the Soviet Union and the establishment of the democratic Mongolian People’s Party that shaped the political landscape of this nation.
Visa Requirements
Mongolia’s immigration requires all visitors to have a valid visa upon entry. The official visa is from the Mongolia Immigration Agency. The list of visa-free countries is provided by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Additional information on Business and Tourists Visa is on the Business and Tourist Visa Permit page.
Alternatively, you can apply for a Mongolian visa through iVisa which guarantees a simple and speedy process, fantastic support, and 24 hours customer service.
Where are the seven major landmarks in Mongolia?
Genghis Khan Statue
Image Credit: Martin Vorel (Libreshot)
The first of our famous landmarks in Mongolia is the statue of Genghis Khan. This statue stands tall at a height of 40 meters and is 34 miles east of Ulaanbaatar. Genghis Khan sitting proudly on his horse is symbolically pointed to his face towards his birthplace.
This legendary horseman is wrapped in 250 tonnes of stainless steel. This statue is believed to be where Genghis Khan found a golden whip. The statue is historically significant as it was opened in 2008, exactly 800 years after his major conquests.
Temüjin who was later known as Chinggis Khan was born between 1155-1162 in Delüün Boldog which is located near the sacred mountain, Burkhan Khaldun. Since there were no written records, no one knows his actual birthdate or burial place.
Temüjin to Genghis Khan
The turning point in young Temüjin’s life was the rescue of Lady Börte, his first wife. Lady Börte was the Grand Empress of the Empire. She was kidnapped by a rival tribe leader on their wedding night. Temüjin’s life as a conqueror began with the rescue of his wife.
They had nine children together and it was their bloodline that significantly expanded the Mongol Empire. In 1206, he united the Merkits, Naimans, Mongols, Tatars, and Uyghurs tribes under his rule. After unifying the tribes, he became “Genghis Khan” which meant Universal Ruler.
Descendants of Genghis Khan
The descendants of Genghis Khan were instrumental in creating dynasties across Asia, Russia, and East Europe. In Asia, the Yuan Dynasty, the Hulaguids of Persia, the Golden Horde, the Shaybanids of Serbia, and the Astrakhanids of Central Asia are all from his lineage.
The Timurid Dynasty which founded the Mughal Empire in India is also related to Genghis Khan. The Wang Clan of Korea’s Goryeo Dynasty is through the marriage of King Chunyeol and the daughter of Kublai Khan.
In Russia, the Belosselsky-Belozersky family consolidated the power of Tatar-Mongols and Belozersky by marrying into the Mongol Empire. The first prince in this family, Gleb married the great-great-granddaughter of Genghis Khan.
Erdene Zuu Monastery
Image Credit: Marcin Konsek (Wikipedia Commons)
The second of our famous landmarks in Mongolia is Erdene Zuu Monastery. The earliest monastery is located in the ancient city of Karakorum. This monastery is part of the Orkhon Valley Cultural Landscape World Heritage Site. It was Abtai Sain Khan that ordered the construction of this monastery after he met the 3rd Dalai Lama.
The head of this monastery is Baansuren Handsuren. He is an English-speaking monk who entered monkhood at the age of 14 years. Stalin saved this monastery as he wanted to show foreign dignitaries what Mongolian monasteries looked like.
Image Credit: Marcin Konsek (Wikipedia Commons)
The unique feature is the 108 stupa wall that surrounds the complex and is visible from a mile away. The idea behind this stupa wall is to mimic the beads on a rosary.
Interestingly, on the grounds of this monastery lies Kharkhorin Rock. A local story goes that there was once a monk who swore celibacy, but he was a womanizer. The monks placed a large stone phallus as a constant and explicit reminder to stay celibate.
For the women, local legend states that women would be blessed with children. We may never know which one of these stories is true, but one thing is for sure, stopping by Erdene Zuu Monastery is a must-visit on your trip to Mongolia.
Lake Khövsgöl
Image Credit: Martin Vorel (Libreshot)
The third of our famous landmarks in Mongolia is Lake Khovsgol. This is the largest freshwater lake in Mongolia. And, it is at the foot of the Sayan Mountains. This lake is one of the ancient lakes in the world. It is so clean that you can drink from it without any treatment.
The Wooden Boy Island is at the center of the lake. This island is uninhabited and covered in dense forest. This lake is the meeting point for the Khövsgöl Ice Festival. A festival that connects Mongolians from different tribes and communities in an event to celebrate their shared connection.
The fourth of our famous landmarks in Mongolia is the Flaming Cliffs. Roy Chapman Andrews named this area in the 1920s after dinosaur eggs were discovered here. Flaming Cliffs were named orange or red color of the cliffs at sunset.
Fun Fact
The Mongolian name for the Flaming Cliffs is Bayanzag which means “rich in saxaul bushes”. These bushes are the only plant life that can survive the extremes of the Gobi. While these bushes are dangerous for humans, they do not affect camels.
Where are the flaming cliffs in Mongolia?
These cliffs are located about 62 miles from Dalanzadgad, near the small village of Bulgan. Only 60% of the journey is on the tarmac. There are no signposts or rest areas here to ask for directions, it’s best to take a guided tour from Ulaanbaatar to get here.
How were the flaming cliffs formed?
The flaming cliffs are the exposed rocks of the Djadochta Formation which are highly fossilized geological formations that date back to the Late Cretaceous Period which is about 71 million years ago.
What was the most important scientific fossil discovery at the Flaming Cliffs?
The most important scientific fossil discovery at the Flaming Cliffs was a fossilized dinosaur nest full of eggs. The eggs belonged to an oviraptor. During Andrews’s last trip, mastodon fossils were discovered.
The other fossils found at Flaming Cliffs are Pinacosaurus, Protoceratops, and Archaeornithoides.
The fifth of our famous landmarks in Mongolia is the Gorkhi Terelj National Park. This is the 14th largest national park in Mongolia with the largest being the Altai Tavn Bogd located within the Altai mountain ranges.
Gorkhi Terelji is the closest to Ulaanbaatar as it is just 44 miles northeast of the capital city. A small portion of the park has tourist facilities such as souvenir shops, restaurants, horse and camel rentals, and yurt camps.
How do I get to Terelj National Park?
The cheapest option is a public bus that leaves Ulaanbaatar city center at 4 pm daily. The journey takes about 2 hours and the trip is comfortable. The bus usually passes through the main park entrance without stopping.
The most convenient option is either self-drive or joining a tour group, or taking a taxi to the entrance to the park. The taxi ride should not cost more than US$35 per person.
How much is the entrance fee to Terelj National Park?
The entrance fee to Terelj National Park is ₮3,000 ($1) per person.
What is the turtle rock in Mongolia made of?
Melkhii Khad or Turtle Rock is a granite formation carved by wind and rain throughout the centuries. The rock stands at 24 meters tall and was once known as Mungud Khad or Money Rock.
Legends mention that Oirad Khan Galdanboshigt hid his treasures behind this rock after suffering heavy losses in a battle against Manchu soldiers. Since then, locals began paying respects to the rock in good faith that it would bring them a fortune.
Government Palace
Photo by Altai Baatarkhuu on Unsplash
The sixth of our famous landmarks in Mongolia is the Government Palace or the State Palace at Sukhbaatar Square. This building houses the offices of the President, Prime Minister, and the Parliament of Mongolia.
On the western side of the building, you can find the seated statue of Ugedei Khan, Genghis Khan’s third son. And, on the eastern end, the seated statue of Kublai Khan, the founder of the Yuan Dynasty.
The main staircase at the front of the structure leads to the seated statue of Genghis Khan, with two general warriors, Muqali and Borchu on horseback guarding the founder of Mongolia.
Although the interior of the palace is not open to the public, you can walk around the building and take a few photos as the area makes for a good photo stop.
Why is Ulaanbaatar called Red Hero?
Ulaanbaatar was named Red Hero to honor Mongolia’s national hero, Damdin Sukhbaatar who liberated Mongolia from the Ungern Von Sternberg’s troops and the Chinese Occupation with the help of the Soviet Red Army.
Where does the President of Mongolia live?
The President of Mongolia lives at Ikh Tenger Complex within the protected mountainous regions of Bogdo Uul.
Khongoryn Els
Photo by Sarah Lachise on Unsplash
The seventh and last of our famous landmarks in Mongolia is Khongoryn Els or the “singing sands of the Gobi”. These dunes are also known as Duut Mankhan. The dunes are about 111 miles from Dalanzadgad and the only way to reach here is by private vehicle or part of a tour.
The northern side of the dune borders green meadows with the Sevrei Mountains towering above the dunes on the southern side. While the western edges meet another 50 miles of dunes, the eastern side borders the Bayan Bor Nuruu mountains.
Travel Tip
These dunes are located in Mongolia’s remote and unforgiving regions, so make sure to stock up on fuel, food, water, and have an experienced driver available to drive you there.
What are the official languages of Mongolia?
The official language is Mongolian. Mongolian is from the Mongolic family of languages. About 85% of its population speaks the Khalka dialect. The other dialects are Oirat and Buryat. Russian is also spoken as Mongolia was once a communist nation.
How do you read a Mongolian script?
This script is from the Old Uygur alphabet system. This is the only script in the world that is written vertically from left to right. The government has approved a national program to promote the usage of this script in legal papers and official documents beginning 2025.
How do you greet in Mongolian?
The traditional Mongolian greeting is Zolgokh. In this greeting, two people hold their arms out and grasp each others elbows. This greeting is accompanied by the phrase, Amar mend üü which means “Are you well and peaceful?”
Hello is Sain baina üü. Good morning is Öglöönii mend and good afternoon is Ödriin mend and good evening is Oroin mend. Thank you is Bayarlalaa. Check out how you can learn the 30 most important words in Mongolia before planning your trip there.
This barbeque dish is made by cutting pieces of lamb and cooking the meat together with hot stones. The hot stones and steam would cook the meat in the pot. The dish is ready once the stones have turned black and absorbed the fat of the pieces of lamb.
For an ultimate experience, eat it with your fingers. Only use a fork and knife when you want to cut the pieces of meat into smaller chunks.
This dish is prepared on special occasions and consists of barbequed meat inserted into the carcass together with heated stones. The unique feature of this dish is that the carcass is used as a cooking vessel.
This dish combines noodles, meat, and vegetables in a single dish. Handmade noodles are steamed with vegetables which makes this a healthy meal. This is the perfect one-pot dish. Traditionally, horse meat was used in the past. However, mutton or any other meat can be used.
Kumis is similar to kefir. This drink is popular in Central Asia. The drink is made by fermenting raw unpasteurized milk over a few days. Herodotus described the process in his book, Histories. The traditional method is on UNESCO’s Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage.
What does Airag taste like?
This slightly sour dish contains 2% alcohol. Interestingly, lactose-intolerant people can take Airag as the fermentation process converts lactose into lactic acid, ethanol, and carbon dioxide.
Gambir is a Mongolian pancake that can be eaten with or without toppings. This dish is also known as Qatlama and is a staple food in Central Asia. Unlike cake, butter and sugar are added to dough when making this dish. This results in a doughy texture. The recipe for gambir is on All Mongolian Recipes. Gambir is on 17 Easy Pancakes From Around The World.
What is Mongolia famous for?
The five landmarks that Mongolia is famous for are the Altai Mountains, the Gobi desert, Mongolian yurts, the eagle hunters, and Bactrian Camels.
The next in our famous landmarks in Mongolia is the Altai Mountains. This mountain range is between Central and East Asia. The mountainous regions are ethnically diverse with Russians, Mongols, Kazakhs, and the Altais.
These mountain ranges bring Russia, China, Kazakhstan, and Mongolia together before meeting the Sayan Mountains in the northeast.
It is in this region that the people of Kazakh nurture a special bond with the Golden Eagles. Eagle hunting is a source of pride for the community.
Gobi Desert
Image Credit: Martin Vorel (Libreshot)
The next of our famous landmarks in Mongolia is the Gobi desert. This desert is the largest desert in East Asia. It has China on its north and northeast, and Mongolia on its south. This desert is a rain shadow desert. This means that the Tibetan Plateau blocks precipitation from the Indian Ocean from reaching the Gobi desert.
The desert consists of 5% dunes while the rest is rocky outcrops. The wildlife crossing at the Trans-Mongolian Railroads for the first time after 65 years is another historical development.
Yurt
Image Credit: Susynoid (Wikipedia Commons)
This portable round tent made is a place of residence for the nomadic tribes of Mongolia. The name “yurt” is from the Turkic word which means “dwelling, abode”.
These yurts take 2-hours to assemble. The felt is from sheep. And, timber is from the valleys. The yurts are easily dismantled which makes them essential for nomadic tribes.
Do you know that the first written record of yurts was by Herodotus?
He described yurts as the homes of the Scythians, a nomadic nation that lived in the Black Sea and the Central Asian region from 600 BC to 300 AD.
Although this isn’t a landmark, other famous landmarks in Mongolia are its eagle hunters. Eagle hunters are from Kazakhstan, Mongolia, and China. These hunters transfer their knowledge orally from one generation to the next.
The story of a teenage eagle hunter, Aisholpan Nurgaiv went viral in 2014. Although female eagle hunters have been around since the 10th century, Aisholpan was the first female to participate in the Golden Eagle Festival.
What Do Eagle Hunters Do?
Eagle hunters harness the eagle’s vision and razor-sharp beaks to hunt and catch prey. Golden eagles are aggressive birds of prey. This tradition dates back to Kublai Khan. He hunted with “thousands of birds and falconers“.
Fast horses and fierce eagles are the wings of the Kazakh people.
Kazakh Proverb
The specialized skill is berkutchi. It is a rite of passage for Kazakh men. The connection between the eagle and man is strong. These men receive guidance from their fathers to harness the power of the eagle at a young age.
With increased modernization, this skill faces extinction. These eagles have been trained since they were young chicks. Hence, they would never hurt their masters.
Bactrian Camels
Image Credit: Alexandr Frolov (Wikipedia Commons)
The other famous landmark in Mongolia is the Bactrian camels. These camels are native to Central Asia. These migratory camels are adaptable to their habitats. They can survive arid deserts or rocky mountain cliffs.
These camels can withstand hot and cold temperatures and can go without water and food for months. However, they can drink up to 57 liters of water at once. It was these camels that traversed the Silk Road.
These are answers to some frequently asked questions about Mongolia. From tourist facilities to the sports created in Mongolia, read on to know more.
Is Mongolia tourist-friendly?
With private sector tourism in Mongolia relatively new, there are at least 403 travel agencies, 320 hotels, and 647 resorts and tourist camps throughout Mongolia. Mongolia is known for its trekking, hiking, horse riding, and overland motorcycle tours.
According to Travel Safe Abroad, Mongolia has the lowest crime rate in Asia. However, basic precaution is necessary as you explore remote regions with no signs of life. This is Mongolia’s charm, unexplored and undiscovered.
What is the best month to visit Mongolia?
The best time to visit Mongolia is during the summer months of June to August. The central and southern regions are dry while the mountains and northern regions can be cold in August.
The Mongolian Naadam Festival is in July and is a must-see if you visit in summer. The festival is known as “Eriin gurvan naadam” which translates to three games of men which are archery, horse racing, and wrestling.
The autumn months from September to October bring nature to its best with lush landscapes and temperate weather. It would be wise to pack your fleece, scarf, gloves, and waterproof shoes. Look out for the Golden Eagle Festival that falls between September and October.
The winter months are from November to February when the weather is extremely harsh and cold. If you are looking for a winter wonderland with clear blue skies and white-leave trees, these are the months to go.
If you are going during winter, pack plenty of woolen and warm clothes. The two major festivals in winter are Tsagaan Lar or the Lunar New Year and the Winter Horse Festival where unique and rare breeds of horses can be found.
Spring comes in March and lasts until May and you can expect dry, sunny weather with the occasional rainfall.
Spring is when life begins after the harsh winter and what better way than to explore the Ice Festival at Lake Khovsgol, the 1,000 Camel Festival at Gobi Desert, and visit Terelj National Park and witness the bloom of flowers, wildlife spotting, and grassland turning green with spring in the air.
Is Mongolia safe for solo female travelers?
Yes, Mongolia is safe for solo female travelers. However, as with any destination, precautions are necessary such as walking alone at night, petty theft, and pickpocketing. Also, avoid the riverbank area as that’s where the drunken local men hang out.
Does Mongolia have roads?
While Mongolia has about 50,000 kilometers of roads, only 20% or about 15,000 kilometers (9,300 miles) are paved tarmac roads. Once you are out of Ulaanbaatar, the paved road becomes gravel dirt roads.
Do US citizens need a visa for Mongolia?
Citizens of the United States who are visiting Mongolia for less than 90 days do not require a visa. However, the passport needs to have at least 6 months of validity from the date of arrival.
Do British citizens need a visa for Mongolia?
Yes, British citizens need a visa to enter Mongolia. A visa is required before arrival and is valid for stays up to 30 days. British citizens can extend their stay for another 30 days, once within 6 months.
What are the sports created in Mongolia?
There are three “manly” sports created by the Mongolians which are Mongolian wrestling, horse-riding, and archery. The Naadam Festival combines these three sports into a single event during the National Holiday in Ulaanbaatar City.
There is no other country that loves horses as much as Mongolia. Horses are not only a form of transportation, they were also used by Genghis Khan to expand his empire. Hence, it is not surprising that Mongolians name their horses once the horses reach 2 years old.
Is Mongolia Worth Visiting?
Yes! Mongolia’s beauty will give you an off-beat experience. After all, Mongolia is the only country in the world where a nomadic lifestyle is prevalent and wild horses roam free. I know I want to go there, wouldn’t you?
Silk Route Sikkim was part of an ancient trade route that connected Central Asia to Europe. The ancient road was from Lhasa in Tibet to Tamluk Port in West Bengal with crossings at Nathula Pass in Sikkim.
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The Silk Route or Silk Road is an ancient trade route that connected the East to the West. The route was significant in enhancing political, economical, religious, and cultural interactions between two regions.
This route began in the 2nd century and continued until the 18th century. It was named Silk Road as China exported silk to the West and to the Roman Empire. The items exchanged from the East to the West were silk, tea, porcelain, dyes, spices, medicine, and perfumes.
The exchange from the West to the East were horses, saddles and riding tack, honey, fruits, glassware, gold, and silver.
An intangible benefit from the constant trade movement was the transfer of knowledge, religious beliefs, cultures, and ideas. Hinduism, Buddhism, Zoroastrian, and Islam were some of the major religions that spread across the Silk Road.
In 2013, China proposed the “One Belt One Road” Initiative. The maritime routes follow the 21st Century Maritime Silk Route. However, the future of the Belt and Road Initiative is yet to be seen.
The Silk Route Sikkim or also known as the Old Silk Route Sikkim is an ancient trade route that connects Bhutan, East India, China & Tibet to Tamluk near the Bay of Bengal. Tamluk was the link to the ancient Maritime Silk Road.
What is the best time to visit Silk Route Sikkim?
There are several months to visit Silk Route Sikkim. However, the best time to visit Silk Route Sikkim is from May to October when the weather is pleasant and suitable for travelers.
If you want to experience snow, then the best time to visit Silk Route Sikkim would be Mid-December to April. However, be prepared as the upper portions of the route may be inaccessible due to heavy snowfall.
Where is Silk Route in India?
India has 12 Silk Route sites which are spread across seven states. The states are Bihar, Jammu and Kashmir, Maharashtra, Punjab, Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, and Uttar Pradesh.
Icche Gaon is a village in Kalimpong in West Bengal. This village is about 58 miles from Bagdogra Airport and is located 5,800 feet above sea level. Some of the sights near this village include a range of trekking trails, the Ramatey Dara, and the Sangchen Dorjee Monastery.
Do you that Sangchen Monastery contains the mummified body of the last Shabdrung Rinpoche?
The brass statue is believed to be 252-years old was a gift from the British Army when it re-captured Buxa Fort in West Bengal.
Sillery Gaon is a village about 10 miles from Incche Gaon. The name Sillery is from the word “Sillery Saag” which was grown, harvested, and sold by the villagers here. Farming is the main source of income.
However, with growing tourists, villages have converted their homes into homestays. Sightseeing along this village would include Ramitey and Tinchuley Viewpoints, Damsung Fort, Hanuman Top, and Silent Valley.
Do you know that Damsung Fort is the only fort in the Darjeeling district?
The fort was built in 1690 and was used as a defense against the Bhutanese attacks. The British took over the fort after the Anglo-Bhutan War of 1864. The fort is in ruins now and is worth a visit.
Mankhim is about 25 miles from Sillery Goan. The name of this town is Kirat Kambu or the Rai Temple. The Rai are an indigenous group from Nepal. There are several sights to visit in this town. The sights are Lampokhari Lake, Dak Bungalow, Parbateyswar Shivalaya Mandir, and Nirmal Dham.
Do you that Lampokhri Lake is the oldest natural lake in Sikkim and is known as the Boot-Leg Lake?
Lingtam is the gateway to Silk Route Sikkim. It is the first village one arrives at after completing the necessary paperwork at Rongli. Lingtam is 19 miles from Mankhim which is about an hour and a half drive.
For sightseeing, there are two monasteries which are Lingtam Monastery and Agomlok Monastery. Gambirey waterfalls is a short distance away.
Phadamchen is a hamlet about 5 miles from Lingtam. Phadamchen has pleasant weather all year round and is a must-stop destination on Silk Route Sikkim. The most visited sight is the Nimachen Karma Tashi Chokorling Monastery.
Zuluk is a small village at a height of 9,400 feet above sea level. This place is about 6 miles from Phadamchen. Zuluk was in use until the Chinese invasion of Tibet.
Zuluk is the best place to stay as it is connected to other towns on Silk Route Sikkim. Some of the homestays available are Zuluk Arjastik Homestay and Hill Homestay.
As for sightseeing, one can go to Thambi Viewpoint or Lungthung Viewpoint for some of the best views of Mount Kanchenjunga. You can opt for a day trip to Nathang Valley or visit Adi Baba Mandir. Kalpokhari Lake is not be missed as well.
Nathang Valley is 15 miles from Zuluk and is an hour’s drive. This valley is an offbeat destination. Its raw beauty is stunning and untouched by tourism. Perched at 14,000 feet above sea level, this valley is “Ladakh of the East”.
Some of the sights worth visiting are Elephant Lake, Eagle’s Nest Bunker, Lake Menmecho, Tukla Valley, and Baba Harbhajan Singh Mandir. There are two Baba Mandir which are the Old Mandir and the New Mandir.
Nathu La Pass is a border outpost that connects India’s Sikkim to China’s Tibet. This pass is historically significant as it is an offshoot of the Tea Horse Route. This route was named such because tea & Tibetan ponies were traded along the route.
Gangtok to Nathu La Pass is 33 miles and takes about 2 hours. International tourists are not allowed in this area according to this Entry Criteria. International tourists are not allowed beyond Tsomgo Lake.
On the Tea Horse Road, both people and horses carried heavy loads. These tea porters carried weights about 60-90 kilograms more than their body weight.
Do you know they carried metal staffs for balance and weight so that they did not have to lay the bales down while resting?
Gangtok is the largest town in Sikkim. The name means “Top of the Hill”. Two popular foods are the Momo and Thukpa. Gangtok is on Lonely Planet and Rough Guides.
Some of the popular sightseeing spots are Enchey Monastery, Ganesh Tok, Namgyal Institute of Tibetology, Do-drul Chorten, and Himalayan Zoological Park.
Fun Facts About Gangtok
Gangtok is a litter-free, spit-free & plastic-free zone since 1997.
This city was once the capital of the Chogyal Monarchy from 1642 to 1975. Gangtok remained the capital after it became the 22nd state in India. New York Times reported Sikkim’s merge with India.
The last sovereign King of Sikkim is Wangchuk Namgyal. He presently lives like a monk.
Gangtok is also home to the elusive Red Panda. These pandas are an endangered species.
What is Silk Route and Spice Route?
In simple terms, Silk Routes are the overland routes that connected the East to the West. Spice Routes are the maritime routes that link the East to the West.
Yes! Sikkim is one of the unexplored regions in India and is off the beaten trails, even for local tourists. Rest amidst beautiful mountain ranges or walk on the staircase to the Indo-Chinese border, the choice is yours.
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