A Winter Expedition Through Mongolia’s Hidden North

From Ulaanbaatar to Murun — Gateway to Mongolia’s Northern Frontier

Traveling to the far north of Mongolia begins with a 1.5–2 hour domestic flight to Murun—the official entrance to the Khuvsgul region.
On this expedition, we traveled by road and settled at Tultiin Tokhoi Lodge, just minutes from Murun Airport.

Tultiin Tokhoi Lodge — Comfort on the Banks of the Delgermurun River

This riverside camp is a strategic base for exploring northern Mongolia. It offers:

• Easy access to photogenic camel caravans
• River bends ideal for Mongolia fishing photography
• A panoramic 360° viewpoint overlooking the Darkhad landscape

Though winter plumbing freezes (common throughout Khuvsgul), the staff provided steamed towels and excellent service.

Nearby lie two of Mongolia’s most important archaeological sites:

• Uushigiin Uvur Deer Stones — Bronze Age standing stones
• Tsakhiurtin Rock Art — ancient carvings preserved in open air

These cultural treasures make the perfect warm-up for a northern Mongolia tour.

Entering the Red Taiga — Ulaan-Uul, Heart of the Wilderness

A five-hour drive brought us to Ulaan-Uul, a settlement tucked deep inside the Khuvsgul Red Taiga Strictly Protected Area.

About the Red Taiga:

This remote wilderness is known for:

• Endless larch and pine forests
• Pristine rivers and mountain basins
• Rare wildlife: elk, moose, wolverine, sable, and snow leopard
• One of the lowest population densities in Mongolia

It is the perfect region for adventure photography, wildlife lovers, and travelers seeking untouched landscapes.

Duut Bulag — A Hidden Paradise for Photographers

On our way to Tsagaan Nuur, we arrived at Duut Bulag, now a favorite destination among northern Mongolia photographers.

The Singing Spring & Scenic Ridge

The ridge above Duut Bulag offers flawless sunrise/sunset angles, while the spring below never freezes, even in extreme winter.
Crystal frost, wooden frames, and flowing water create surreal compositions — a dream for landscape photographers.

(Duut Bulag Mongolia, winter photography Mongolia, Khuvsgul photo tour)

Tsagaan Nuur — The White Lake of the North

The settlement of Tsagaan Nuur lies beside a culturally significant freshwater lake, home to the endangered whitefish species, protected by Mongolian law.
This area marks the gateway to the East Taiga, homeland of the Tsaatan reindeer herders.

Among the Tsaatan Reindeer Herders — Life in the Taiga

The Tsaatan (Dukha) people are one of Mongolia’s most unique ethnic groups. Their lifestyle revolves entirely around their reindeer.

What Makes the Tsaatan Unique?

• Mobility: they move camps with the seasons
• Spirituality: shamanic traditions remain alive
• Survival: reindeer provide transport, warmth, and identity
• Hospitality: visitors are welcomed into smoke-filled “orts” (teepees)

Visiting the Tsaatan is a rare chance to experience authentic nomadic culture untouched by time.
(Tsaatan Mongolia tour, Dukha reindeer herders, Taiga Mongolia photography)

Jarganat Lodge — The Most Luxurious Stay in the Darkhad Valley

After leaving the taiga, we drove 60 km south to Jarganat Lodge, a boutique lodge offering unmatched comfort in the region.

Why Jarganat Lodge Is Ideal for Travelers

• Modern bathrooms & hot showers
• Heated, comfortable bedding
• Full-service restaurant
• Panoramic 360° views of the Darkhad Depression
• Central access to all major photography locations

For those who want comfort without sacrificing adventure, this lodge is the perfect base.

Jarganat River — The Frozen Wonderland That Never Freezes

Just outside Renchinlkhumbe lies the magical Jarganat River, Mongolia’s newest winter trend.

Why Photographers Love This River

• The water never freezes, not even at –50°C
• Underwater green plants sway beneath the ice-cold flow
• Frost-covered trees create silver forests
• Mist rises in the morning light

It is one of the most surreal winter landscapes in Mongolia.

( Jarganat River, winter Mongolia photography, Renchinlkhumbe tour )

Ar Bosgyn Khavtsal /Ar Bosgo Canyon/— The Sacred Winter Gorge

Our final destination was Ar Bosgyn Khavtsal, near the towering peak of Delger Khaan Mountain, the king of the Khoridol Saridag range.

This gorge has recently become a trending winter destination.
Untouched snowfields, dramatic cliffs, and mystical light make it a must-visit location for winter explorers.

Farewell to the Darkhad Depression

Heading back to Ulaanbaatar, I found myself deeply moved by the raw beauty of the Darhad Depression, a region defined by:

• Towering mountains
• Endless forests
• Harsh winters
• Warm-hearted people
• Pristine, untouched nature

It is one of Mongolia’s last great wild frontiers.

Experience the Magic With Us

If you dream of exploring Mongolia’s northern wonders — from Tsaatan reindeer herders to luxury winter lodges, from magical frozen rivers to ancient deer stones — we are here to make it happen.

Nomadic of the Blue Sky
Your gateway to authentic, premium Mongolian adventures.

Ready for your own winter journey?
Just contact us — we’ll craft the perfect itinerary.