The Vast Embrace of Nature: Gorkhi-Terelj National Park in Mongolia

Located about an hour and a half drive from Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia, Gorkhi-Terelj National Park offers a serene escape into nature. As you move away from the city, buildings gradually disappear, and the sight of sheep, horses, and yaks wandering close to the roads becomes a natural part of the scenery. Upon entering the park, the combination of grasslands and rocky mountains immediately immerses you in Mongolia's unique arid continental landscape. The weather in the Terelj area is quite unpredictable. Despite strong winds and intense sunlight, the temperature remains relatively low. As you walk through the park, the mixed scent of dry soil and grass fills the air, and you can easily spot nomadic gers and herds of grazing horses and sheep scattered across the landscape. One of the unique experiences here is staying in a ger. The faint smell of the heating stove lingers inside, and while the interior is simple, it is designed for efficient living. At night, the surroundings become incredibly quiet, and with only a single light source, the atmosphere feels entirely different from the city. There were moments when the electricity weakened temporarily, making it challenging to charge phones smoothly. Due to the park's vast size, most transportation within it is done by vehicle. Along the way, you can visit landmarks like the Genghis Khan Statue or enjoy horseback riding. While the horses are generally docile, they can become tense in strong winds, so some caution is advised. Overall, Gorkhi-Terelj feels less like a place of 'overwhelming scenery' and more like a space where expansive grasslands and rocky mountains unfold with a quiet, everyday charm. Its lack of artificial tourist attractions makes it a place where you can directly experience Mongolia's natural environment and traditional way of life, leaving a lasting impression.