In the rest of the world, August and September might be the peak of summer, but not in Mongolia where this is actually the culmination of fall and the season for trees to flaunt their color. Despite evergreen conifers that are predominant in the Siberian taiga in the north of the country, birches, poplars, and larches also occur quite frequently, and these make the fall in Mongolia a beautiful golden yellow. Birch forests grow on the slopes right beside the conifer zones. Larches are common around Ulaanbaatar, especially in Bogdkhan, renowned as the oldest protected area in the world, founded back in 1778. Poplars brighten river banks all around the country, though in particular the Tuul River.
Practical info
When is the best time to see autumn colors in Mongolia?
Mongolia has its peak fall season from late August to September. During this time, deciduous trees like birches, poplars, and larches display their vibrant yellow hues, making it an excellent season to witness the autumn colors. What's exceptional about Mongolia's fall season is that it falls at the peak of the summer season. This weather shift contrasts with the rest of the world experiencing fall at this time. Show more
What are the most common types of trees that display fall colors in Mongolia?
Tree species like birches, poplars, and larches are the commonly found deciduous trees that flaunt their colorful hues in the fall season in Mongolia. Although conifers grow in abundance in the northern part of the country's Siberian taiga, these types of trees are prevalent in Mongolia. Poplars find their residence mostly in river banks; you can spot birches on mountain slopes next to conifer areas. Larches, on the other hand, can be seen around Ulaanbaatar and in Bogd Khan mountain. Show more
Where can we witness the most colorful birch forests in Mongolia?
The hills surrounding Hustai National Park, known for reintroducing the near-extinct Przewalski's horse to their natural habitat in the wild, is one of the best places to observe the colorful birch forests of Mongolia, commonly seen during the fall. The vegetation, which is lush in this area, adds to the aesthetic value of the beautiful scenery, attracting various tourists worldwide for a splendid experience. Show more
Can we find larch trees anywhere else in Mongolia other than around Ulaanbaatar?
Larch trees, which are one of the commonly found deciduous trees during the fall season in Mongolia, can also be seen in the northwest part of the country's Altai Mountains. Specifically, the Saylyugem Range, a UNESCO biosphere reserve, boasts of one of the massive forests of larch trees globally. Although the area is remote, adventurous travelers consider the journey worth the investment since the beautiful scenery and activities available there are breathtaking. Show more
What other areas in Mongolia are known for displaying beautiful fall colors besides the Bogdkhan area and the Tuul River?
Kharkhorin is famous for its ancient capital and a natural beauty recognized as one of the areas that display beautiful fall colors in Mongolia. Visiting the historical sites while enjoying the surrounding autumn scenery is a perfect way to experience the captivating appearance of Kharkhorin. Also, Gorkhi-Terelj National Park offers a spectacular view of fall colors with a variety of outdoor activities available to tourists all around. Show more
