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11 Facts about Mongolia for Every Traveler to Know

Mongolia has its own brand of facts that are very different from any other countries in the world. First, you will fall in love with the landscape and mountains in Mongolia. Second, you will stay in love with them all your life. This is another fact that you will realize when you will miss this country after returning home. To make sure you are taking advantage of each and everything in the country and enjoy some of the incredible things that are only found in Mongolia, then these facts about Mongolia will keep you updated for the same.

Mongolia is extremely popular among travelers who like to visit underrated places. Mongolia doesn’t pop out like Switzerland or UAE, but it definitely has something that attracts selective travelers from across the globe. We tried to compile 11 amazing facts about Mongolia all under this list.

1. Mongolian Empire was the biggest empire on Earth

The Mongol Empire at its height occupied territory of 14.7 million square kilometers (about 5.7 million sq. mi.). It extended eastwards from the Sea of Japan to westward Kiev. It spread from Russia in the North as far south as the other country like Vietnam. The population at the time was more than 100 million, or more than a fifth of the world’s citizens.

2. Mystery of Ghenghis khan’s grave

The Mongols have gone through great lengths to keep the grave of Genghis Khan a secret. Those who attended the funeral were killed by troops, then by the slaves who built his grave. The mystery continued as the soldiers who killed them all eventually committed suicide. This means that anyone who knows the secret has taken it to the grave with him or her. The stories go at length as the Legends has it, they argue that the soldiers were even diverting a river over the tomb to hide it further.

Ghenghis Khan's Statue

Ulaanbaatar City View

3. Capital of Mongolia is Ulaanbaatar, means ‘Red Hero’

You will be surprised to know that the city was not always named what it now. The name of the city was Nomiad Khüree before 1911. Which means 'Big Settlement' in Mongolian. In 1911, it was called Nilel Khüree, meaning 'capital village.' The final renaming occurred in 1924 after Mongolia became a Communist republic. Then the name was finally changed to what it is now.

4. Mongolia has an excruciating continental climate

Were you aware that Mongolia experiences long, cold winters, with only short summers in between? And they certainly enjoy the season. Mongolia's high pressure also means they have 257 cloudless days a year, on average. In the north, rain and snow usually occur, while in the south, some areas have no rain. This might sound abnormal to a few people who live in tropical countries, but for the Mongols, it is as real as it gets.

5. The Gobi desert covers a large area in Mongolia

The Gobi Desert is Asia's second-largest desert. It occupies an area of 1.3 million square kilometers (0.5 million sq. mi.) including all of Southern Mongolia. The Gobi Desert also covers a portion of Northern China.

See also 7 Tips for Traveling to Mongolian Deserts

6. Mongolia is at one of the highest places in the world

Mongolian Gandan Monastery

Mongolia’s maximum elevation is 1.6 km (5,249 ft.) above sea level. That makes it higher in comparison with other countries. That is because of the position of the country on the Mongolian plateau. It certainly justifies the reputation of it being on the highest places in the world.

7. Mongolians mostly follow Buddhists

Buddhism is Mongolia's most prevalent religion, with 53 per cent of Mongolians being Buddhist. There is also shamanism, though 13 per cent of Mongolians claim they are non-religious. This is the reason why it is comparatively easier to travel in Mongolia. You just have to keep the necessary traditions in mind.

8. There are two mountain ranges in the country

The Altai Mountains (See also Altai Tavan Bogd National Park) is the first of two ranges. They cover the country's west and southwest. The Khangai Mountains are the second mountain range. These pass across the middle and north of the country shorter than the Altai Mountains. The tourists love visiting this site, and you will too, just make sure you are carrying enough supplied for the road.

9. Erdenet has the biggest copper mine in the world

Erdenet is Mongolia's third largest city. The name means a reference to the mining industry of the region, 'with gold.' In addition, the founding of the town in 1974 was to exploit the nearby rich copper deposits. Other than that, the Erdenet copper mines produce much of Mongolia’s income recently and maintains a stable economy in the country.

10. Horse racing is a popular and loved sport

This is one of the facts about Mongolia that shouldn't shock you, seeing horseback riding is Mongolia's most popular way of travelling. Horse racing in Mongolia is not achieved with circular tracks as in other nations. The broad and open countryside of the country means races navigate the open land.

Mongolian Horse Racing

See more about How to Experience a Mongolia Horse Riding

11. Deel is the traditional Mongolian Attire

The Deel has been worn by Mongolians for decades, and rural Mongolians tend to wear it every day. For towns, except for special occasions, it is usually just worn by the elderly. This traditional dress looks like an overcoat but doesn't feel like one. Then, you wear the Deel close against the body, alternating the left with the right flap. They then use clasps and a sash to keep it in place.

Knowing so many facts about Mongolia can be overwhelming. The country is filled with incredible surprises. If you love travelling to underrated places and have Mongolia on your bucket list, then refresh your plans and book those tickets right now.