Bayangobi Sand Dunes (also known as Elsen Tasarkhai or Ikh Mongol Sand dunes) is located in the Khugnu Tarna Nature Reserve, which covers an area of over 42,000 hectares and is known for its diverse flora and fauna. The sand dunes of Bayangobi are constantly shifting and changing, creating a mesmerizing landscape that never looks quite the same from one day to the next. The dunes are 80 km long, and can reach heights of up to 80 meters, making them some of the largest in Mongolia, and are surrounded by a unique ecosystem of grasslands, forests, and wetlands.
The area is home to a wide variety of animal species, including gazelles, wild boars, wolves, and foxes, as well as many rare and endangered species such as the Asiatic ibex and the snow leopard. Visitors to the area can explore the sand dunes on foot or by camel, taking in the stunning vistas and enjoying the peaceful atmosphere of the surrounding nature.
In addition to its natural beauty, Bayangobi is also steeped in history and culture. The nearby Khugnu Khan mountain, which stands at over 2,200 meters tall, is home to several ancient sites and temples that are steeped in Mongolian history and culture. Visitors can explore the ruins of the Erdene Khambiin Khiid Monastery, which was destroyed during the Stalinist purges of the 1930s, or visit the impressive Ovgon Monastery, which dates back to the 17th century.
Overall, Elsen Tasarkhai is a truly mesmerizing location that offers visitors a unique and unforgettable experience of Mongolia’s natural beauty, history, and culture.