FROZEN MONGOLIA: BEAUTY AT -30°C!

   I never imagined stepping on a land of the eternal blue sky, Mongolia.

   At first, I was curious about how Mongolia was often described as the Land of Eternal Blue Sky but then after visiting, I fully understood why.

   Who would have thought I could witness and experience the beauty of Mongolia during the winter season; a season when most of us cannot seem to imagine being in a place just to experience a -25 to -30 degrees Celsius.

   I have visited Korea during their winter season, but Mongolia during winter? That’s a whole different kind of magic.

  And this blog is a glimpse into that icy adventure, a story of snow, solitude, and the unexpected warmth of Mongolian hospitality.

   You know you have just landed in Mongolia once the chilling temperature and freezing air welcomes you once you arrive, therefore, I advise you to bring your own winter essentials and change at the airport to prevent freezing. The endless plains wrapped with snow and ice will be visible as you drive to the restaurant site for lunch.

Chingisiin Khuree Camp

   One of the most memorable stops on my journey was Chinggis Khuree Tourist Camp, just outside Ulaanbaatar.

   Despite the cold, the camp’s warm hospitality, hearty traditional meals, and cozy ger accommodations made it an unforgettable and enriching cultural experience. Take a chance to take your lunch and explore the camp made with sophistication, a perfect place to take your photo with your friends and families.

Horseback Riding Experience

    Riding a horse is a must on any vacation to Mongolia, and it's a different experience in the winter.

   Wearing layers, rode with a local guide over snow-covered steppes, enjoying the crunch of snow underfoot and the chill of the wind on my face. Small but powerful, Mongolian horses were ideal for the climate and terrain.

  Riding across such vast, quiet landscapes and the boundless white horizon made it feel unreal. I now have a profound respect for the nomadic way of life, where riding a horse is not only tradition but also essential to survival.

Dog Sledding Experience

   With a team of eager huskies and a local musher leading the way, raced through icy trails surrounded by breathtaking winter scenery.

   I will never forget the buzz I got from the dogs' energy, the clean air, and the silence of the icy surroundings. It was an uncommon event that offered a fresh perspective on Mongolia's icy splendor, extending beyond horseback riding. It was both serene and thrilling.

Snow Sledding and Ski Resort

   Mongolia isn’t just about traditional culture and wilderness; it also knows how to deliver winter fun! 

   Spending a day at a local ski resort near Ulaanbaatar, where you can try skiing down gentle slopes, perfect for beginners. But the real thrill came from snow tubing, sliding down snowy hills on an inflatable tube with nothing but laughter and adrenaline.

   Surrounded by families and kids all enjoying the cold, it was heartwarming to see how Mongolians embrace winter joyfully. It added a playful contrast to the serene and cultural parts of the trip.

Chinggis Khaan Statue Complex & Gandantegchinlen Monastery

   Of course, there’s more to its winter activities when you travel to Mongolia during winter season. Witness the beauty of the landscapes, visit the Chinggis Khaan Statue Complex, a modern monument representing the spirit of Mongolian independence and heritage, where they believe a location where Chinggis Khan fought for their land and sovereignty. Discover Mongolian way of life once you have visited their monasteries and national museum.

   Mongolia is more than just a place to visit; it's an experience. Especially during winter! Cold on the outside, but incredibly warm at heart. From snow-covered adventures to the kindness of nomads, every moment felt like a step into a story I’ll never forget.

   This journey grounded me and inspired a new sense of wonder.

   If you’re craving raw beauty, deep culture, and a winter you’ll talk about forever, Mongolia is calling, a frozen beauty at -30°C!

Blog & Photos contributed by: Rexie Ocumen