Some parts of Western Mongolia region resemble the breathtaking scenes from the Game of Thrones, highlighted by glacier peaked mountains, lush green valleys and endangered wildlife. Western Mongolia is accentuated by multicultural population, astonishing display of natural beauties, challenging mountain peaks that entice the mountain climbers. Western Region of Mongolia borders with Xinjiang Uygar Autonomous Region of China in the south and Tyva Republic of Russian in the North. Bayan-Ulgii, Khovd, Gobi-Altai and Uvs provinces make up the Western regionces and is a source for many pristine lakes and rivers. The Altai range contains the country's highest peak, the 4,374 m (14,350 ft) high Khuiten Peak. Notably, the Western region is home to multicultural epicenter of Mongolia where Khalkh (main ethic group of Mongolia), Kazakh (Muslim ethnic group which resides almost exclusively resides in Bayan-Ulgii province), Dorvods, Khotons and Myangads. One of the most striking features of Western Mongolia is the its Khazakh people and their unique of life. They're most famously known as the eagle hunters in the Altai region. As the region is quite remote from the capital city, all the capitals on the West are accessible by plane. Land travel is usually quite physically demanding and time consuming at best. Due to its far distance, there is one-hour difference between Western Mongolia provinces and rest of the country. Despite the hardships, western Mongolia's attractions, both natural and cultural, are well worth the effort. With time and flexibility, the region may well be the highlight of your trip.
Did you know
In 2016 Kazakh-language documentary The Eagle Huntress was inspired by the lives of Kazakh community of Mongolia. It follows the story of Aisholpan, a 13-year-old Kazakh girl from Mongolia, as she attempts to become the first female eagle hunter to compete in the eagle festival at Ulgii. The documentary was co-produced Otto Bell and narrated by executive producer Daisy Ridley.
Mongolia does not quite border with Republic of Kazakhstan but very close to it. There is about 37 km (23 miles) distance between Mongolia's westmost point and Kazak's east most point. There's a short stretch of Russia-China border between Mongolia and Kazakhstan.
Mongolia's highest point is Khüiten peak in Altai Mountain and is elevated at 4,374m above sea level. Formerly, the peak was named as the Friendship peak. Khüiten peak is one of the 5 peaks of Altai Mountain. Another peak near the Khüiten peak is marks the triborder between Russia, Mongolia and China.
