Zavkhan
Zavkhan, in western Mongolia, is a vast and sparsely populated destination of open steppe, forested mountains and remote lakes, where nomadic traditions remain strong.
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About Zavkhan
Uliastai is the capital of Zavkhan Province and one of the oldest settled towns in western Mongolia. It sits in a valley where the Bogdiin and Chigestai rivers meet, surrounded by the Khangai Mountains at the edge of desert and forest.
Founded in 1733 as a Manchu military garrison during Qing rule, Uliastai once served as the de facto capital of Outer Mongolia and an important caravan trade centre. Reminders of that period remain, including the stone ruins of the governor's fortress near the Bogdiin River and a carved stone by the central roundabout.
The town's main sights include the nine white stupas built for nine Buddhist saints, a Buddhist temple, and the Zavkhan Province museums on Yavuukhulan Street. The Zavkhan History Museum, established in 1924, displays local natural history, ethnography and religious artefacts, while the Famous People Museum honours notable figures from the province.
As a compact provincial centre, Uliastai offers a central market, small hotels and local restaurants serving Mongolian staples such as buuz dumplings. Beyond town, travellers can reach Otgontenger Mountain, hot springs and the open steppe, lake and mountain landscapes of Zavkhan.
Uliastai is reached by road from Ulaanbaatar and by flights to Donoi Airport, making it a practical gateway to western Mongolia for both leisure travellers exploring the Khangai region and visitors on provincial or business trips.
Zavkhan Travel Guide
Best Time to Visit
Summer, especially June to August, is the warmest and most practical season for exploring Uliastai, Otgontenger Mountain and the surrounding Khangai Mountains. Winter is extremely cold and travel through the mountain passes can be difficult.
How to Get Around
Uliastai is a small city that can largely be explored on foot, with taxis available for short trips. Donoi Airport lies about 25 km west of town, and daily buses from Ulaanbaatar plus arranged private vehicles help travellers reach the wider Zavkhan countryside.
Where to Stay
Hotels cluster in the city centre, including the Uliastai Hotel and smaller local guesthouses. On the outskirts, ger camps offer a more traditional stay near the Khangai Mountains, while tents can be set up along the rivers that run through town.
Food & Drink
Local eateries serve Mongolian staples such as buuz dumplings, noodle soups and meat dishes. The central market and small restaurants are the main dining spots, and local shops offer supplies before journeys into the countryside.
Ground Transportation Services in Zavkhan
Airport Transfers
Travel between Donoi Airport (ULZ), about 25 km west of Uliastai, and hotels, business addresses and other locations in the city and Zavkhan Province.
Hourly Chauffeur
Book a private driver by the hour for meetings, provincial visits, sightseeing and flexible travel around Uliastai and western Mongolia.
Car Rental
Rent a vehicle in Uliastai for independent journeys to Otgontenger, nearby soums and the wider Zavkhan countryside.
Bus & Group Transfers
Arrange minibuses or charter buses for groups, airport pickups, provincial trips and tours around Uliastai and Zavkhan Province.
Frequently Asked Questions
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