Khoton and Khurgan lake
🏞️ Khoton & Khurgan Lakes, Altai Tavan Bogd national park
Khoton Lake and Khurgan Lake are twin glacial lakes located in the heart of Altai Tavan Bogd National Park, Bayan-Ölgii Province, Western Mongolia. These interconnected lakes lie beneath the snow-covered peaks of the Altai Mountains, forming a spectacular alpine ecosystem revered by Kazakh nomads for centuries.
Surrounded by untouched wilderness, ancient relics, and eagle hunter families, these lakes offer visitors a true escape into Mongolia’s natural and cultural soul.
📌 Quick Facts
🔍 Category | Details |
---|---|
📍 Location | Bayan-Ölgii Province, Western Mongolia |
🏔️ Elevation | ~2,073 meters (6,800 feet) |
🌊 Type | Glacial freshwater lakes |
🔗 Connection | Linked by a narrow stream |
🏕️ Activities | Camping, trekking, cultural encounters, photography |
🗓️ Best Time to Visit | June to September |
🐎 Accessibility | By off-road vehicle or horseback |

🌟 Highlights
🌊 Twin Alpine Lakes – Turquoise waters reflecting dramatic Altai peaks.
🐫 Kazakh Nomadic Culture – Homestays with eagle hunter families.
🐾 Trekking & Horseback Expeditions – Explore stunning valleys and alpine passes.
🪨 Rock Art & Ancient Monuments – Sites with Bronze Age petroglyphs and stone men.
✨ Special Features
Mirror-like Lake Views – Ideal for photographers and nature lovers.
Wild Camping – Total solitude and star-studded skies.
Cultural Legacy – Rich in Kazakh heritage and shamanic lore.
Natural Purity – Unspoiled glacial waters, larch forests, and alpine flowers.

🗺️ Nearby Attractions
🏔️ Altai Tavan Bogd Peaks – Mongolia’s highest mountains, great for alpine trekking.
❄️ Potanin Glacier – The country’s largest glacier, accessible via multiday treks.
🌊 Baga Turgen Waterfall – A stunning waterfall cascading through alpine forest.
🪨 Ancient Petroglyphs – Bronze Age rock art depicting hunting and daily life.
👤 Human Stone Statues – Turkic-era stone warriors and memorials dotting the valleys.
🏕️ Eagle Hunter Villages – Experience the living traditions of Kazakh nomads.
🌲 Tsagaan Gol Valley – A scenic river valley rich in birdlife and wildlife.
❓ FAQ
Q: Can I swim in Khoton or Khurgan Lake?
🅐 Yes, but be prepared for icy temperatures.
Q: How long does it take to reach the lakes from Ulgii?
🅐 Approximately 6–8 hours by 4x4, depending on road conditions.
Q: Are there tourist facilities?
🅐 No formal camps or lodges. Camping and nomadic homestays are your best options.
Q: Are guides required?
🅐 Highly recommended, especially if you plan to explore remote trails or historical sites.
🧭 Visitor Tips
🧤 Dress for Cold Nights – Even in summer, temperatures drop sharply after dark.
🐴 Go by Horse – Hire local guides for authentic trekking experiences.
🏕️ Bring All Gear – This is a remote, self-sufficient camping destination.
📸 Photography Paradise – Pack a wide-angle lens and extra batteries.
💡 Why Visit Khoton and Khurgan lake?
🏞️ Unspoiled Scenery – A rare, pristine pocket of alpine wilderness.
🧭 Off-the-Beaten-Path – Far from tourist crowds, full of authentic nomadic life.
🐅 Cultural Richness – Meet Kazakh eagle hunters and explore ancient relics.
✨ Total Disconnect – A peaceful escape into Mongolia’s untouched frontier.
RELATED DESTINATIONS
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Witness the ancient art of Kazakh eagle hunting in Western Mongolia—where golden eagles and humans share a bond built on tradition and trust.
Discover the rich heritage of Mongolia’s Kazakh people—famed for eagle hunting, vibrant traditions, and life on the rugged Altai steppe.