Mongolia’s Darkhad Depression

Last updated 7 months ago by Jessica Brooks | Published: October 9, 2021

Mongolia’s Darkhad Depression

Mongolia’s Darkhad Depression is one of three parallel rift valleys created by the Baikal Rift System, alongside Lake Baikal in Siberia and Khovsgol Nuur in northern Mongolia. This region was once home to a large glacial-fed lake and now features a vast expanse of open steppe and low forested hills, predominantly composed of Siberian larch. It remains a dynamic wetland area, containing over 300 wetlands, including ponds, bogs, and rivers. Rivers such as the Tengis and Shishged flow into the depression, sustaining these wetlands and contributing to the region’s ecological diversity.

Located in north-central Mongolia’s Khovsgol province, most of the Darkhad Depression falls under the jurisdiction of the Ulaan Taiga Protected Areas Administration. This body oversees the Ulaan Taiga Strictly Protected Area, which is situated on the southwest side of the Darkhad Depression. Enlarged to 1,074,661 acres and granted Strictly Protected Area status in 2011, the Ulaan Taiga joins the Khoridol Saridag Strictly Protected Area and the Tengis-Shishged National Park in protecting this unique environment. Established in 2011, Tengis-Shishged National Park, named after the two rivers originating from its mountains, covers 2,149,817 acres, further ensuring the conservation of this vital and vibrant ecosystem.

Map Of Protected Areas Of Khovsgol Province highlighting the location of the East and West Taiga. Image: Changing Taiga

Image: EL guest Enya Dunn-Trethowan

Mongolia’s Darkhad Depression is a vast ecosystem, spanning several thousand square kilometers, classified as taiga (also known as boreal forest) in the Tsagaannuur region at the northernmost tip of Mongolia. This area is the home range for the world’s southernmost indigenous reindeer population and the Tsaatan herders who care for them. Additionally, it is home to members of the Darkhad ethnic group, who are predominantly nomadic herders with livestock that includes sheep, yaks, and horses. This unique environment supports both the cultural heritage and the traditional lifestyles of these indigenous communities.

Image: EL guest Kairi Aun

Mongolia’s Tsaatan consider their home landscape spiritual and sacred with most if not all the hills, rivers, stones, and trees of the Darkhad Depression home of a spirit. The Tsaatan follow a unique shamanistic tradition combined with tengerism and animism. The earth, sky and the spirits of the reindeer, the landscape and their own human ancestors are honoured and respected. As a result, some areas are off-limits to visitors such as areas considered to be inhabited by dangerous spirits. Other areas may have certain rules associated with them, such as prohibited activities. 

If you would like to experience the landscapes of Mongolia’s immense Darkhad Depression and the way of life of the people who live their lives within it with us, Eternal Landscapes, then get in touch with Jess.