About Khuvsgul Lake
The distance from Ulaanbaatar to Khuvsgul Lake is approximately 800 kilometers (500 miles) by road. Actual distance may vary depending on the specific route you choose and detours you may take along the way. The journey takes approximately 12-14 hours by car, depending on road conditions and traffic. Khuvsgul lake is located at an altitude of approximately 1,645 meters (5,397 ft) above sea level in the Khangai Range region. Khuvsgul Lake covers an area of approximately 2,760 square kilometers (1,065 sq mi) and reaches a maximum depth of 262 meters (860 ft). The lake is elongated, 136 km (85 mi) long and 36 km (22 mi) wide.
The clear waters of the lake are fed by more than 90 small rivers and streams, and account for approximately 1% of the world’s fresh water. Khuvsgul Lake is home to a variety of flora and fauna, including rare animals such as Siberian ibex and argali sheep.
Khuvsgul Lake is surrounded by majestic high mountains of which the southwest end is surrounded by Khoridol Saridag Mountain range and Bayan Mountain range reaching 3000-3200 meters high. The side shore of the lake is steep. The eastern shore is slightly steep. Darkhadiin Khotgor Basin, one of the coldest places in Mongolia, is located to the west of the lake.
How deep is Khuvsgul Lake? How big is Lake Khuvsgul?
Khuvsgul Lake covers an area of approximately 2,760 square kilometers (1,065 sq mi) and reaches a maximum depth of 262 meters (860 ft).
Local People and culture
Within Khuvsgul taiga, the Tuva people, known as Tsaatan, live a unique nomadic lifestyle as reindeer herders. Their way of life involves herding reindeer, hunting, and navigating the challenges of living in the four seasons of the taiga.They speak Tuva with each other and practice shamanism.
What is there to do in Khuvsgul Lake?
The following activities are available in and around Khuvsgul Lake.
- Scubadiving
- Horse riding and horse riding along the lake shore
- Stargazing (star watching)
- Kayaking
- Hiking
- Visit the nomads or stay with the nomads and experience the Mongolian way of life
- travel on the sukhbaatar ship
- Take a picture
- Chill out with your favourite drink
Is there winter in Khuvsgul Lake?
The lake itself freezes over, creating a stunning icy landscape. The frozen lake becomes a popular destination for winter activities such as ice fishing, ice skating, and dog sledding. The surrounding mountains and forests are covered in snow, offering opportunities for winter hiking, snowshoeing, and enjoying the peaceful winter scenery.
It’s important to note that due to the extreme cold and harsh conditions, visiting Khuvsgul Lake in winter requires proper winter clothing, equipment, and planning. It’s advisable to consult with local guides or tour operators who are experienced in organizing winter trips to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
One popular ice festival in Mongolia is the “Blue Pearl Ice Festival” held annually on Khuvsgul Lake. This festival celebrates the winter season and the frozen beauty of the lake. While the exact dates can vary each year, it typically takes place in early March.
During the Khuvsgul Ice Festival, the frozen lake becomes a vibrant venue for various activities and competitions. Here are some highlights of the festival:
- Ice Sculptures: Artists from around Mongolia showcase their talent by creating intricate ice sculptures. These sculptures range from traditional Mongolian designs to modern creations, and visitors can marvel at the detailed craftsmanship.
- Ice Skating and Hockey: Khuvsgul Lake’s frozen surface provides a natural ice rink for ice skating enthusiasts. Visitors can bring their skates and glide across the smooth ice. There are also friendly hockey matches played on the frozen lake, adding to the festive atmosphere.
- Horse-drawn Sledding: Traditional horse-drawn sleds, known as “morbay,” are a popular means of transportation in the winter.
- Cultural Performances: The Khuvsgul Ice Festival also showcases Mongolian cultural performances, including traditional music, dance, and singing.
Khuvsgul Lake National Park
A total of 838,100 hectares of land covering Khuvsgul Lake, its basin, the Eg and Uur rivers, and the East Soyon watershed were classified as “National Park” by the Government of Mongolia in 1992. Khuvsgul Lake Natural Park is located 101 kilometers north of Murun city, across the provinces of Alag-Erdene, Renchinlkhumbe, Khankh, and Chandman-Undur.
What animals are in Khovsgol lake?
Khuvsgul Lake and its surrounding region are home to a diverse range of wildlife. Here are some notable animals that can be found in and around Khuvsgul Lake:
Siberian Ibex (Capra sibirica): The Siberian ibex is a species of wild goat that inhabits the mountains near Khuvsgul Lake.
Argali Sheep (Ovis ammon): The argali is the largest species of wild sheep, and it can be found in the Khuvsgul region. These majestic creatures are known for their large, curved horns and can be spotted grazing in the grasslands and mountainous areas.
Moose (Alces alces): Khuvsgul Lake is one of the few places in Mongolia where moose can be found. These large, solitary animals are attracted to the lake’s wetlands and forests.
Brown Bear (Ursus arctos): The brown bear is the largest land predator in Eurasia, and it inhabits the forests around Khuvsgul Lake.
Lynx: The Eurasian lynx is a medium-sized wildcat that can be found in the forests of Khuvsgul Lake. These elusive felines are skilled hunters and are known for their tufted ears and distinctive spotted coat.
Birds: Khuvsgul Lake is a haven for birdwatchers, as it attracts a variety of bird species. Commonly seen bird species include the osprey, black stork, common merganser, whooper swan, and various species of gulls, ducks, and passerines.
Fish: Khuvsgul Lake is home to several fish species, including lenok, grayling, and taimen. These fish provide an important food source for the local ecosystem and are also sought after by fishing enthusiasts.
How to travel to Khuvsgul Lake
You can get to Khuvsgul Lake by road or by plane. It will take approximately 12-14 hours to drive on paved roads. If you fly from Ulaanbaatar to Murun, the center of Khuvsgul province, you can reach it faster by spending 1 hour. It is possible to negotiate a taxi from Murun Sum to Khuvsgul Lake. If you are interested in an all-inclusive package tour, click her
Khuvsgul Lake Accommodations and service
Around Khuvsgul Lake, there are various accommodation options available to cater to the needs of visitors. Ger Camps, Lakeside Resorts, hotels and Lodges around Khuvsgul Lake can be booked directly from ihotel.mn.