Embracing Responsible Tourism: Building Lasting Connections in Mongolia

Discovering Gorkhi Terelj National Park

Gorkhi Terelj National Park, situated just under 100 km from Ulaanbaatar, may be a well-known tourist destination, but it still retains its natural alpine beauty. The park is famous for its dramatic Mesozoic rock formations, offering breathtaking views for those who explore its rugged terrain.

Beyond its visual splendor, the park’s varied topography supports rich biodiversity, making it an ideal environment for herders and their livestock. Naraa, his wife Bujee, and their two young adult children, Tsindee and Bayasaa, are one such family who thrive in this environment, drawing sustenance from the land around them.

Meet Naraa and His Family: Modern Mongolian Nomads

Naraa and Bujee’s home is nestled in the Baruun Bayan Valley of Gorkhi Terelj National Park, near a small tributary of the Tuul River. Their remote location is accessible only by fording the Terelj River, and unlike their steppe counterparts, they move less frequently due to the abundance of resources close to their camps. Each year, Naraa and his family migrate a short distance of just 8 km between their summer and winter camps, a practice that reflects the balance between tradition and adaptation in their way of life.

Naraa’s winter camp, perched at a higher altitude, offers protection from the harsh winter winds and allows his family and livestock to escape the frigid air that settles in the valley below. The family’s lifestyle is a blend of modern education and traditional wisdom. Although Naraa holds a Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering, he chose to honor his grandfather’s wishes and maintain the nomadic herding tradition within their family. While Naraa continues the herding legacy, his siblings have taken different paths, with his brother becoming a brain surgeon in Tokyo and his sister a linguist in China.

In a short video interview, Naraa reflects on his life, sharing that “a herdsman’s life has a very big freedom.” Link to the video here.

Meet Bujee: Partner in Life and Enterprise

Together with Naraa, Bujee manages their homestay, offering ger accommodations for visitors. This venture provides guests with a unique insight into how modern Mongolian herders are adapting to the changing times by establishing micro-businesses to supplement their income. Naraa’s deep knowledge of the area allows him to guide guests on horseback and on foot, from the historic ruins of Princess Temple to the stunning views from the 2,656-meter-high Altan Ulgii Mountain.

Meet Tsindee: An Apprentice in the Making

Naraa and Bujee’s son, Tsindee, often joins his father on treks, lending a hand with everything from short two-hour rides to multi-day expeditions. Now a young adult, Tsindee has been part of these journeys since his early teenage years. While some may be surprised to see such a young guide, we’ve always seen him as an apprentice, gradually mastering the skills and knowledge passed down through generations.

One of the ways we support local families is by encouraging them to involve their children in these treks. This practice not only preserves traditional Mongolian knowledge but also ensures it is passed on in a meaningful, hands-on way. As a guest, you become part of this living tradition, witnessing firsthand how the younger generation learns the routes, water sources, place names, and stories of the land.

A Glimpse into the Future of Mongolian Nomadism

Bujee and Naraa are a prime example of how modern Mongolian nomads are adapting to the challenges of the 21st century. By setting up micro-businesses, they are finding ways to sustain their traditional way of life while also embracing new opportunities.

If you’re interested in experiencing life with Naraa and Bujee at Gorkhi Terelj National Park, whether through an extended trek or a homestay, explore our range of Mongolian tours and experiences. We look forward to welcoming you into this unique and beautiful way of life.