Things to Do in Karakorum

Karakorum once ruled half the world. Today it is a quiet town in Mongolia's Övörkhangai Province that feels almost impossibly modest given its extraordinary past—this was the beating heart of an empire stretching from Eastern Europe to the Pacific. What remains blends easily with the surrounding steppe, where you'll find yourself moved by the vastness and the sense that you're standing where Genghis Khan and his successors once ruled much of the known world. The town revolves around Erdene Zuu Monastery, Mongolia's oldest surviving Buddhist monastery, built using stones from the original Karakorum ruins. The contrast is striking. Ancient Mongol imperial history layers with Tibetan Buddhist heritage, all set against the endless grasslands that define this part of central Mongolia. That is the kind of place where you might sit quietly for longer than planned, just absorbing the profound sense of history and space.

Dining options are basic but authentic. Local restaurants focus on traditional Mongolian cuisine like mutton soup, buuz (steamed dumplings), and dairy products, serving hearty meals for around $5-8. Many visitors eat at their accommodation, and ger camps typically include meals featuring both Mongolian specialties and adapted international dishes. Don't miss trying airag (fermented mare's milk) and aaruul (dried cheese curds) if you're staying with nomadic families.

Late May through September offers the most comfortable weather. July and August bring peak season with the warmest weather and greenest landscapes, though you'll encounter more tourists and higher prices—spring and early fall provide excellent weather with fewer crowds. Winter visits are challenging. Temperatures drop well below freezing and some tourist facilities close.