Ulaagchin Khar Lake

Ulaagchnii Khar Nuur sits in western Zavkhan where the Mongol Els sand dunes run through the province, and the effect is startling: a freshwater lake of deep blue with dunes coming down to the water on one side and larch-dotted hills on the other. The lake is fed by springs and holds fish, and the water warms enough in late summer for swimming, which is rare at this altitude and latitude. Herders camp around it, and the dunes are used for grazing camels. It is far from the main routes and sees few visitors, which is much of the appeal; those who come usually camp for a night or two. The tracks in are sandy and rough and take hours from Uliastai, so a capable vehicle and a driver who knows the way matter more than any map.

What you actually see

• Lake and dunes - blue freshwater against sand on the western shore.
• Camel grazing - herds on the dune margins.
• Larch hills - wooded slopes on the opposite side.
• Swimming - unusually warm water for the region in late summer.

When to go

June to September; late summer for the warmest water. The tracks are impassable in snow and difficult after rain. Wind blows sand and camping needs a sheltered spot behind the dunes.

Honest expectations

There are no facilities whatsoever and no settlement nearby; everything must be carried. The tracks are sandy and vehicles get stuck without the right tyres and driver. Distances are long and fuel is only available in Uliastai. Mosquitoes are present in summer.

Nearby

Uliastai is southeast; Otgontenger mountain lies east.