Kharkhiraa–Turgen Mountains

Kharkhiraa–Turgen Mountains – Alpine Giants of Western Mongolia

The Kharkhiraa–Turgen Mountains form one of the most spectacular and rugged mountain systems in western Mongolia. Located in Uvs Province, near the borders of Bayan-Ölgii and Khovd, this alpine range is renowned for its high peaks, permanent glaciers, powerful rivers, and untouched wilderness.

Far less visited than other Altai regions, Kharkhiraa–Turgen is a destination for travelers seeking true adventure, dramatic scenery, and remote trekking experiences away from crowds.

Geography & Location

The Kharkhiraa–Turgen mountain range lies within the greater Mongolian Altai system, east of Altai Tavan Bogd and south of Uvs Lake. The range stretches across a vast area of alpine terrain, dominated by snow-covered summits and deep valleys.

• 📍 Region: Uvs Province, Western Mongolia
• 🏔️ Highest Peak: Turgen Peak (≈ 3,965 m)
• 🧊 Features: Glaciers, alpine lakes, rivers, waterfalls

The mountains are the source of the Kharkhiraa River, one of the most important rivers flowing toward the Uvs Lake basin.

Kharkhiraa & Turgen Peaks

🏔️ Turgen Peak

Turgen Peak is one of the highest mountains in western Mongolia and a striking landmark of the region. Its upper slopes are covered by glaciers and snowfields year-round.

🏔️ Kharkhiraa Peak

Kharkhiraa Peak, slightly lower but equally dramatic, contributes to the rugged skyline and feeds multiple glacial streams.

Together, these peaks create a powerful alpine environment shaped by ice, wind, and time.

Glaciers, Rivers & Waterfalls

One of the defining features of the Kharkhiraa–Turgen Mountains is their active glacial system.

Wildlife of the Kharkhiraa–Turgen Region

The remoteness of the range supports diverse wildlife:

🐾 Mammals

• Snow leopard (rare but present)
• Siberian ibex
• Argali wild sheep
• Wolves and foxes

🦅 Birdlife

• Golden eagles
• Bearded vultures
• Himalayan griffons

The area is especially valuable for wildlife tracking and photography, particularly in winter when animal movements are visible in snow.

Nomadic Life & Culture

The valleys and lower slopes are home to nomadic herders, mainly Mongolian ethnic groups who raise yaks, horses, sheep, and goats.

Visitors may encounter:

• Traditional gers (yurts)
• Seasonal migration routes
• Horseback herding practices
• Simple, hospitable nomadic life

The relationship between people and landscape here remains largely unchanged for generations.

Trekking & Adventure Opportunities

Kharkhiraa–Turgen is ideal for adventurous travelers who value isolation and raw nature.

🥾 Popular Activities

• Multi-day trekking through alpine valleys
• Glacier viewpoints and high mountain passes
• Landscape and night photography
• Wildlife tracking expeditions

⚠️ Note:

Trekking here requires good preparation, experienced guides, and respect for changing weather conditions.

Best Time to Visit

🌼 Summer (June – September)

• Best for trekking and camping
• Mild temperatures at lower elevations
• Active glaciers and flowing rivers

🍁 Autumn (September – October)

• Clear skies and golden landscapes
• Cooler temperatures
• Excellent for photography

❄️ Winter (November – March)

• Extreme cold
• Ideal for wildlife tracking
• Stunning frozen landscapes

Why Visit Kharkhiraa–Turgen Mountains?

✔️ One of Mongolia’s most dramatic alpine ranges

✔️ Permanent glaciers and pristine rivers

✔️ Minimal tourism and true wilderness

✔️ Rich wildlife and nomadic culture

✔️ Ideal for trekking, photography, and exploration

---

A True Wilderness Experience

The Kharkhiraa–Turgen Mountains are not a casual travel destination—they are a place for those who seek untouched landscapes, silence, and challenge. For adventurers willing to go off the beaten path, this mountain range offers some of the most rewarding scenery and experiences in western Mongolia.