Gorkhi Terelj National Park — Attraction in Töv

Gorkhi-Terelj National Park (Mongolian: Горхи-Тэрэлж [ɡɔrxi tɛrɛɮʃ], creek-rhododendron) is one of the national parks of Mongolia. The Terelj tourist zone has a number of "tourist camps" (Mongolian: жуулчны бааз, juulchny baaz). It is connected with Ulaanbaatar by a paved road (main road to the East #A0501 Baganuur-Öndörkhaandirection, 37 km from Ulaanbaatar city center, left turn to the branch #A24, 5 km later road crosses Tuul River and the National park territory begins). The road comes to the Gorkhiin Davaa (Mongolian: Горхийн даваа) pass. Most of the tourist camps and tourist attractions are before this pass. The road then ends at the settlement of Terelj, which features small shops and restaurants. The Terelj settlement is located in the valley of the Terelj River (Terelj Gol), approximately 66 km from the Ulaanbaatar city center. The national park tourist zone is formally in Nalaikh düüreg(district) part of Ulaanbaatar municipality, the rest of the protected zone beginning to the north of the Terelj River, is located in Mongolia's Töv Province (Töv aimag).

A small southern portion of the park is developed for tourists, with restaurants, souvenir shops, horses and camels for rent, and tourist ger camps, many of them run by the Juulchin corporation, the former state tourism company. However, most of the park is undeveloped and difficult to access. Attractions include Khagiin Khar Lake, a 20m deep glacial lake 80 km upstream from the tourist camps, and Yestii Hot Water Springs, natural hot springs 18 km further upstream. The park also has a Buddhist monastery that is open to visitors. Park wildlife includes brown bears and over 250 species of birds. The Tuul River flows through the park.

The park has many rock formations for rock climbers, and includes two famous formations named for things they resemble: Turtle Rock (Mongolian: Melkhii Khad) and the Old Man Reading a Book (Praying Lama Rock).

Many Westerners were introduced to Gorkhi-Terelj National Park when the CBS reality television program The Amazing Race visited the park in the second episode of its...

After our exhilarating yet rustic adventure in western Mongolia, we found ourselves craving a touch of luxury. Our wishes were granted as we arrived at the Terelj National Park, a mere 55km northeast of Ulaanbaatar, and checked into the Terelj Luxury Hotel. The contrast couldn't have been more stark - from gers and basic cabins to a five-star resort nestled in the heart of Mongolia's wilderness. The Terelj Luxury Hotel, with its elegant architecture blending seamlessly into the surrounding landscape, offered a welcome respite. As we settled into our plush rooms, the panoramic views of the park's famous rock formations and lush valleys served as a reminder that we were still very much in the heart of Mongolia's natural beauty.

Despite the temptation to simply relax in the hotel's lavish surroundings, we were eager to explore the wonders of Terelj National Park. The next morning, we set out to discover two of the park's most famous attractions.

Our first stop was the iconic Turtle Rock, known as Melkhii Khad in Mongolian. This massive granite formation, weathered by millennia of wind and rain, does indeed resemble a giant turtle. Standing at its base, we marveled at nature's artistic prowess. Some of us even attempted the climb to the 'turtle's' head, rewarded with breathtaking views of the surrounding park.

From Turtle Rock, we journeyed 3km north to reach the Aryapala Initiation & Meditation Center, a site that would prove to be both visually stunning and spiritually enriching. We embarked on the center's circular walking path, a journey that took us past 143 boards displaying Buddhist proverbs. The 45-minute walk was a meditative experience in itself, with the path winding through a landscape dotted with stupas and rocks adorned with painted...

Gorkhi-Terelj National Park is a captivating destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Located just a short drive from Ulaanbaatar, the park offers stunning landscapes, including dramatic rock formations, lush meadows, and dense forests. The park's diverse ecosystem supports a wide range of wildlife, making it a paradise for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts.

One of the highlights is the iconic Turtle Rock, a massive granite formation resembling a turtle, which is perfect for photography and short hikes. The Aryabal Meditation Temple, perched on a hill, provides a serene spot with panoramic views, ideal for those seeking tranquility and a spiritual experience.

Accommodations range from traditional gers (yurts) to more modern lodges, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in Mongolian culture while enjoying comfortable amenities. Horseback riding, hiking, and river rafting are popular activities that offer a deeper connection with the park's natural beauty.

The hospitality of the local people adds to the charm of Gorkhi-Terelj, making it not just a visit to a national park, but an enriching cultural experience. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or a glimpse into Mongolia's heritage, Gorkhi-Terelj National Park is a must-visit...