Terelj

Terelj is a national park located in the Tuv Province of Mongolia, approximately 70 kilometers northeast of the capital city Ulaanbaatar. It is one of Mongolia's most visited natural attractions, renowned for its striking granite rock formations, vast steppes, and pine-covered mountains. The park is part of the Gorkhi-Terelj National Park, which was established in 1994.

The landscape of Terelj is characterized by rolling hills, open meadows, and dramatic rock outcrops that have been sculpted by erosion over millennia. Prominent among these formations are Turtle Rock (Melkhi Khad), a large boulder resembling a turtle, and the Ariyabal Meditation Temple, perched on a hillside accessible by a long stairway. The park is also home to the Tuul River, which flows through the area, adding to its scenic beauty.

Terelj National Park is a popular destination for outdoor activities. Visitors can engage in hiking, horse riding, and rock climbing, or simply enjoy the natural surroundings. The park offers opportunities to experience traditional Mongolian nomadic life, with many ger camps (traditional felt dwellings) available for accommodation and cultural immersion. Wildlife within the park includes various species of birds, as well as mammals like red deer, wild boar, and argali sheep. The park's accessibility and diverse natural attractions make it a key site for ecotourism in Mongolia.

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