Mongolia’s Terkhiin Tsagaan Nuur National Park
Best Time To Travel To Mongolia
October 5, 2023
Helping Mongolia’s Wilderness: Our Annual National Park Community Clean-Up
October 24, 2023
Last updated 9 months ago by Jessica Brooks | Published: October 24, 2023
Mongolia’s Terkhiin Tsagaan Nuur National Park
Mongolia’s Terkhiin Tsagaan Nuur National Park (also known as Khorgo-Terkhiin Tsagaan Nuur National Park) is a natural highlight, featuring a diverse landscape of volcanic craters, rugged mountains, river valleys, and rolling steppe.
Situated in central Mongolia’s Arkhangai Aimag (province), Terkhiin Tsagaan Nuur National Park is part of the Khangai Mountain range, one of Mongolia’s three major mountain chains. The Khangai Mountains stretch approximately 800 km in a northwest-southeast direction, reaching their highest point at the sacred Otgontenger, which stands at 4,021 meters in Zavkhan Province. This park offers breathtaking panoramic views and a rich natural environment, making it a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts.
Terkhiin Tsagaan Nuur, translating to “Great White Lake,” is the centerpiece of Mongolia’s Terkhiin Tsagaan Nuur National Park, the largest freshwater lake in the Khangai Mountains. This pristine lake is part of the Tariat volcanic field, along with the lava terraces of the Chuluut and Suman Rivers. The area features six cinder cones, the most notable being Khorg. A footpath leads to the 180-meter-wide crater of the Khorg volcano, allowing visitors to walk around its rim. Radiocarbon dating indicates that the lava flow from Khorg, which dammed the Chuluut River and formed Terkhiin Tsagaan Nuur, occurred about 4,930 years ago.
Despite its relatively modest size (approximately 16 km long and 4-6 km wide), Terkhiin Tsagaan Nuur National Park boasts 10 tributary rivers and over 6,000 hectares of wetlands of international importance, earning it a place on the Ramsar Convention list of Wetland Protection in 1997. The park includes several smaller lakes to the west and numerous bays and peninsulas on the northern shore, home to diverse bird species such as Bar-headed Geese, Ruddy Shelducks, and Northern Lapwings. Recognized as one of 70 Important Bird Areas (IBA) in Mongolia by BirdLife International, it is part of the East Asian-Australasian Flyway, protecting migratory water birds.
The park’s fauna includes Siberian Marmots on the open steppe and Grey Wolves primarily in the larch-dominated coniferous forests on the northern mountain slopes. The southern slopes feature a variety of steppe and alpine plants, including edelweiss.
Don’t be deterred by the presence of ger camps or claims by influencers or tour companies that White Lake is ‘touristy.’ The park’s hinterland offers a spectacular and serene environment perfect for extended treks, providing opportunities for self-discovery and personal reflection. The solitude and connection with nature can be transformative. We offer both foot and horse treks at Terkhiin Tsagaan Nuur through our long-term local community partnerships. These treks support the economic sustainability of our partnering herding families, offering a supplementary source of income while enhancing the experience of our guests.
Image: EL guest Justine Shanti
For geology enthusiasts, Terkhiin Tsagaan Nuur National Park offers a fascinating exploration of volcanic craters, lava formations, and unique geological features that narrate the region’s volcanic history. The park’s landscape, shaped by ancient volcanic activity, provides a rich tapestry of natural wonders to discover.
Additionally, the area is a haven for bird enthusiasts. The diverse habitats around the lake, including wetlands, bays, and peninsulas, attract a variety of bird species, making it an ideal spot for birdwatching. As mentioned, visitors can enjoy observing species such as Bar-headed Geese, Ruddy Shelducks, and Northern Lapwings in their natural environment.
Our Community Clean Up At Terkhiin Tsagaan Nuur
Mongolia’s Terkhiin Tsagaan Nuur National Park offers valuable pastures for herding families, with grass and water sources essential for their livestock’s well-being. For many herding families, this way of life is a source of cultural pride and identity, fostering an intrinsic connection to the land. Their vested interest in maintaining a healthy ecosystem is crucial, as it directly impacts their livelihoods.
Balancing conservation with human activities, including tourism and the traditional lifestyle of herding families, presents significant challenges. Sustainable management strategies are essential to accommodate the needs of tourism, support herding families, and achieve the conservation goals of the national park. These strategies help protect the area’s natural and cultural heritage.
The impact of tourism on the region prompted the establishment of our annual National Park community clean-up at White Lake. This initiative is part of our commitment to preserving the park’s environment and fostering a sustainable balance between conservation and human activity. You can learn more here – https://www.eternal-landscapes.co.uk/mongolia-national-park-community-clean-up/
A Reminder To Travel Responsibly
For those planning to visit Mongolia’s Terkhiin Tsagaan Nuur National Park, we encourage responsible travel. By doing so, you not only experience the raw beauty of the area but also contribute to the preservation of its unique ecosystem. With respect and environmental consciousness, your journey can leave a positive impact, ensuring this region remains pristine for future generations.
Terkhiin Tsagaan Nuur National Park’s landscapes provide essential pastures for herding families, with abundant grass and water sources crucial for their livestock’s well-being. Visiting a Mongolian herding family can be a rewarding cultural experience, but it’s important to do so respectfully. Respect their privacy and boundaries, seek permission before taking photos, and be mindful of local customs and norms.
- Practice Leave No Trace principles when exploring the area. Carry out all your trash and dispose of it responsibly. Minimize your physical impact by staying on designated trails and avoid disturbing wildlife. Mongolia, like many countries, is dealing with plastic pollution. Bring a reusable water bottle and refill it at local water sources, if safe. Reduce your use of disposable plastic items by bringing your own reusable options.
- Travel in smaller tour groups to reduce the environmental footprint and allow for a more intimate experience. Smaller groups have less impact on the area and facilitate deeper connections with the environment and local culture.
- Support organizations and initiatives dedicated to the conservation of Terkhiin Tsagaan Nuur and other protected areas in Mongolia. Advocate for policies that promote responsible tourism and environmental protection, ensuring that these natural and cultural treasures are preserved for the enjoyment and education of future visitors.
Jess @ Eternal Landscapes
