Mongolia

Mongolia is a landlocked country in East Asia. It is bordered by Russia to the north and China to the south, east and west. Mongolia's recorded history dates back to the 13th century, when it was ruled by the Mongol Empire.

Mongolia is a vast, empty and beautiful country. Much of its area is covered by steppes, with mountains to the north and west and the Gobi Desert to the south. It is sometimes called the "land of the blue sky" because of the clear weather and the big open skies. There are very few trees and not much pollution.

There are many things to see and do in Mongolia. You can visit the capital city Ulaanbaatar, go hiking and camping in the mountains, ride a horse or camel, visit a nomadic family, try traditional Mongolian food, see the famous "Flaming Cliffs" of the Gobi Desert, or go for a swim in a natural hot spring.

Approximately 30% of the population are nomadic or semi-nomadic. Horse culture and riding play a large part in the Mongolian national identity, and many people still live a traditional way of life, some in yurts (traditional tents), and move around the country with their animals. Mongolia is a great place to visit if you want to experience a different and unique culture.

Mongolian food is simple but delicious. The most famous dish is "buuz", a kind of meat dumpling. Other popular dishes include "khorkhog" (a meat and vegetable stew cooked in a pot), "tsampa" (roasted barley flour), and "airag" (fermented mare's milk).