Mongolia is best described as the world's largest campground. It's low population density, nomadic culture, and lack of infrastructure mean it offers a unique culture centered around outdoor living that is a thrill to explore. It's a surprisingly diverse country with landscapes that range from the desert to the steppe and the lake regions in the north. Mongolia has an untouched, pristine feel that gives you the impression that you've stepped into a country untouched by modern technology. The people are incredibly welcoming, proud, and impressive in their adaptability. One night you can experience sleeping in a Ger (or Yurt) with a local family while you sip some camel milk tea. The next night you'll sleep under the open sky with more stars than you ever imagined possible. Winter months are incredibly cold and harsh, so it's best to visit during the short summer months. You could also time your visit to overlap the annual Nadam Festival, with games, sports, and activities throughout the country. If you do plan to visit during the Nadam Festival, it's important to make reservations in advance. This is easily the most popular time to visit Mongolia, and the crowds will be at a peak. While very few tourists actually visit Mongolia, those that do almost always come during the warmer summer months. You'll likely find a concentration of travelers in Ulaan Batar either planning their trip or recently returning from their trip.

The people of Mongolia are some of the most lovely and welcoming people you are likely to encounter. Despite living a subsistence life, they are incredibly proud and accomplished people. Get to Mongolia now, because it won't be long before it's no longer an undiscovered destination.

Mongolia is generally a very cheap destination. You essentially have to do a tour as there is almost no internal transportation infrastructure. This means independent travel is virtually impossible. Tours vary in price depending on the length of the trip, the number of people, the comfort level, and the tour company you book through. It's easy to join a tour once you arrive in the country. This is the best way to ensure your costs are reasonable. It does require some flexibility as you need to find a group going to the places you hope to see in the same time frame you're hoping to take.

Erdene Zuu Khiid: This the first Buddhist monastery in Mongolia. It is located in Kharkhorin and has between 60 and 100 temples on its complex. It also has about 300 gers inside its walls where monks reside. At its peak it housed about 1000 monks.
Khovsgol Nuur: This beautiful lake is surrounded by mountains in the north of Mongolia. It is the largest lake in Mongolia and the third largest in the area. It's an absolutely beautiful, although difficult, place to visit.
Mandshir Khiid: Just an hour outside of Ulaan Batar, this famous monastery is in a beautiful setting. It provides the home to 350 monks and is a pleasant place to visit.

Buuz: These are the Mongolian version of steamed dumplings. They are filled with meat, most often lamb and flavored with seasoning. They're often prepared for celebrations or during the Nadam Festival.
Guriltai Shol: This is a noodle, meat, and vegetable stew that is common throughout the country. It makes for a hearty and filling meal.
Airag: A fermented mare's milk drink that should be sipped with caution. It's often offered to visitors after arrival in a Ger. Although alcoholic in nature, do not attempt to get drunk off of this drink.