Bayan-Ulgii By plane

Bayan-Ulgii aimag (province) is located in the West region of our country.  It is bordered with Russia and China.  97% of the population is Kazakh whereas the rest 3% are Mongolian minority groups, such as Tuva, Uriankhai and Zakhchin.  The aimag is well known for its tall mountains, various rivers, and small and big lakes.  Many of the places are protected by the government and are counted as outstanding.  It is rich for its wild animals and birds, which are usually not seen outside the aimag.

Kazakh life style and habits are differed from Mongolian due to different reasons. Most of the population is Muslim.  By traveling to Bayan-Ulgii you will not only experience a wonderful sightseeing, but you will visit a Kazakh family as well. Kazakh people are very welcoming.  Typically, they live in small houses, which are built using black wood, mud.  However, during the summer they live in their Kazakh gers (nomadic refuge).  Since Kazakh ger is taller and bigger comparing to Mongolian gers, it is hard for them to heat it up during the harsh Mongolian weather.  Due to this reason they do not live in gers during the winter.  The Kazakh gers are decorated with their beautifully handmade wall carpet and felt carpets and mattresses.

Despite these, you will be able to visit a Kazakh host family and get a photograph with an eagle on your hand.  Bayan-Ulgii is famous for its rock pictures, ancient monument with a picture of deer, and ancient grave monuments with human head figure.  They are mostly 4000-6000 years old.  You will also have the chance to climb Tavan Bogd (4355m), which is one of the highest peaks of Mongolia.