A land of dreams and adventure, Mongolia is a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts. Still largely unexplored, it offers visitors an unparalleled experience amid grandiose and picturesque landscapes. Often celebrated for its vast steppes and mountains, or its famous Gobi Desert, Mongolia also enchants with its great lakes of crystalline waters.

We've curated a selection of Mongolia's 10 most beautiful lakes, a non-exhaustive list that will convince you, perhaps once again, that a journey through Mongolia will take your breath away.

Lake Khövsgöl

Nestled in the heart of the Khövsgöl natural park, Lake Khuvsgul reveals itself like a true alpine sea. As Mongolia's most important freshwater reserve, the lake alone contains 2% of the world's freshwater reserves. It stretches 136 km long, 36 km wide, and reaches depths of up to 267 meters. Its clear blue waters earned it the nickname "Mongolia's Blue Pearl". Home to countless birds and wild animals, Lake Khövsgöl is a true paradise.

Lake Terkhiin Tsagaan

Lake Terkhiin Tsagaan is a high-altitude lake situated at 2,060 meters in the heart of the Khorgo – Terkhiin Tsagaan Nur natural park. A hidden gem of Arkhangai, Terkhiin Tsagaan emerged following the volcanic eruption of the Khorgo volcano located east of the lake. The lake stretches 16 km long and 4 to 10 km wide with an average depth of 20 meters. Wildlife here is abundant due to the still very natural character of the region. You may encounter deer, wild boar, or great cormorants along your way.

Lake Khar

Lake Khar is a magnificent high-altitude lake that should not be missed during your Mongolia journey. It sits in the Khangai mountain range at 1,980 meters elevation. Surrounded by the Bor Khyar sand dunes that extend into its waters, this turquoise-hued lake reveals itself like an oasis in the heart of the desert.

Lake Khar is renowned as an excellent fishing spot, which will delight amateur fishermen. It's also a true paradise for bird enthusiasts who can observe more than a dozen endemic species here.

Lake Shireet

The largest lake in the Naiman Nuur region, which means "Eight Lakes", Lake Shireet covers an area of approximately 10 km² with 3.4 km in length and 1.2 km in width. Located in the Eight Lakes park 35 km from the Orkhon Falls, we invite you to camp on its shores as part of our Trekking with the nomads of the Orkhon itinerary.

Lake Uureg

Situated between the Turgen and Tsagaan Shuvuut mountains, 100 km from Ulaangom, capital of Uvs Province, Lake Uureg also ranks among Mongolia's most beautiful lakes. Indeed, it sits in a semi-desert region with arid vegetation similar to the Gobi Desert. During the winter season (October to May), the lake's waters freeze, forming ice that can reach a thickness of 1.2 to 1.5 meters. This lake has also become a refuge for numerous endangered species such as the Pallas's Eagle, the Swan Goose, Pallas's Cat, and the Red Fox.

Lake Bayan Nuur

Bayan Nuur is a spectacular mountain lake situated at 1,570 meters elevation, north of the Bor Khyariin Els dune. Although smaller than most other lakes in the country, Bayan Nuur stands out for its depth, reaching up to 50 meters. In winter, its surface freezes, creating an ice sheet 1.1 to 1.3 meters thick. Near the lake you'll find exceptional sites such as the Temeen Khuzuu, Ulaan Shanaa, and Serven cliffs, which conceal magnificent canyons within their walls.

Lake Tolbo

Among the essential lakes to visit during your stay in Mongolia is Lake Tolbo. This lake is situated at altitude, specifically 2,000 meters above sea level. It lies 50 km south of Ölgii, in the center of Bayan-Ölgii Province. What makes this lake unique is that it witnessed the Battle of Lake Tolbo (1921) during the Russian Civil War, where the Bolsheviks allied with the Mongols defeated the White Russian Army. A commemorative plaque has been installed to mark this historic battle.

Lake Khurgan

Located in the north of the Altai mountain range, Lake Khurgan offers a magnificent expanse of water stretching 23 km long and 6 km wide. Situated at altitude, it also freezes during the winter period. Set within a picturesque landscape, this exceptional location offers breathtaking views of glaciers and snow-capped peaks, along with twenty small emergent islands. The forests along the shores and surrounding hills are home to various rare and endemic bird species that will delight ornithology enthusiasts.

Lake Khoton

Closely linked with Lake Khurgan, Khoton is also a spectacular mountain lake nestled at 2,080 meters elevation, north of the Altai mountain range. The towering snow-capped peaks and surrounding moraines represent a surface area of 1,341 km² in themselves. The lake's waters freeze as early as autumn, forming an ice sheet that can reach up to 1.7 meters thick. In winter, the green and gray tones of the lake contrast beautifully with this sublime winter setting. It's only in spring that glacial meltwater feeds the lake. A dense forest lines the lake's shores, providing habitat for various bird species. The lake is particularly ideal for fishing due to the abundance of fish in its crystalline waters.

Lake Ögii

Located east of Arkhangai, Lake Ögii is a spectacular mountain lake situated at 1,337 meters elevation. It's a highly productive fishery and an important stopover for migratory birds, particularly those from the waterfowl family. Local communities consider it a sacred place. The lake shores are home to several ger camps offering the opportunity to rent canoes. Fishermen can enjoy a fishing session in complete tranquility, within some of the most spectacular scenery.

Lake Khagiin Khar

Formed during the Quaternary glaciation, Khagiin Khar is a mountain lake situated at 1,800 meters elevation between the Khiidiin saridag, Khünkher, Asgat saridag, and Khölöriin davaa mountains. This lake lies in a very remote and difficult-to-access area; however, fishing here is fruitful, with numerous carp to be caught. The Khöl River originates here and flows through a canyon whose walls reach 20 meters in height, before emptying into the Khongor River.

Lake Khyargas

Lake Khyargas is one of Mongolia's largest salt lakes. Indeed, it extends 75 km long and 31 km wide. It draws its source from the smaller Lake Airag located on its southern flank. This lake is part of a terrestrial ecoregion defined by the World Wildlife Fund (WWF). The region has also been designated as a nature reserve since 2000. Observing migratory birds that come here to seek refuge is one of the main activities around the lake. Other activities can also be enjoyed here, such as horseback riding or camel trekking, or playing traditional local games like Shagai, the typical knucklebone game of Mongolian nomads.

Lake Khukh Nuur or the Blue Lake with a Dark Heart

Located 35 km north of the main road in the sum of Tsenkhermandal, in Khentii Province, Khukh Nuur, better known as the Blue Lake with a Dark Heart, is a splendid freshwater lake. At 1,675 meters elevation, the surrounding region is home to beautiful forests where flora and fauna abound. Khukh Nuur holds significant importance in Mongolian history, as this is where Temuujin (the childhood name of Chinggis Khan) received the title of «Chinggis Khan» and was designated as «The Great Khan of all Mongolia» in 1189.