Northern Mongolia is cooler and greener than the Gobi, with taiga forest on the Russian border and the country's largest lake at its heart. Travellers come for Khövsgöl's clear water, for multi-day rides in Arkhangai, and for quieter roads through Bulgan and Selenge. Erdenet and Darkhan are industrial towns that break up long drives rather than adventure bases.
Mosquitoes can be lively near Khövsgöl in July, so pack repellent and a head net. On the lake, wind picks up in the afternoon and can cancel kayak plans, which is another reason to stay three or four nights if paddling matters to you. Hot springs at Tsenkher in Arkhangai are a common reward after a long riding day.
Larch forest climbs the hills behind Hatgal, and reindeer herder visits head west into the taiga when tracks are dry. Monastery day trips to Amarbayasgalant add a cultural pause on the long drive north from Ulaanbaatar.
Lake, valley and monastery country
Kayaking and shore walks on Khövsgöl, horse treks in Arkhangai, and the Amarbayasgalant monastery route through Selenge and Bulgan. Stops in Darkhan-Uul and Orkhon help split the drive when you travel overland.
Murun and lake camps
Murun airport links with Hatgal by a two-hour road that can be corrugated after rain. Hatgal camps range from simple gers with outdoor toilets to slightly more comfortable lodges with en-suite options in peak season. Book early for the first two weeks of August.
Getting north
The drive from Ulaanbaatar to Khövsgöl takes about a day and a half with an overnight stop, or you can fly to Murun and transfer to the lake. Allow at least four nights at Khövsgöl if you want paddling and a reindeer-herder visit without rushing.
Booking on adventuro
Use the Book here tab to see trips that start from Murun, the lake shore or UB.