Explore Mongolia’s Hidden Gem: White Lake in Arkhangai Province

Welcome to Terkhiin Tsagaan Lake, also known as White Lake, a sparkling freshwater body nestled in the heart of Arkhangai Province in central Mongolia. Surrounded by extinct volcanoes, open grasslands, and ancient lava fields, this stunning lake is a favorite destination for those seeking natural beauty, cultural richness, and true Mongolian wilderness.
 

Whether you’re traveling by jeep on a classic central Mongolia loop or trekking from ger to ger, White Lake offers a peaceful retreat with plenty of activities—from hiking and kayaking to horseback riding and star gazing.

📍 Where is White Lake (Terkhiin Tsagaan Nuur)?

Location: Tariat soum, Arkhangai Province, Central Mongolia

Distance from Ulaanbaatar: ~600 km (12–14 hours by car)

Altitude: ~2,060 meters (6,758 feet) above sea level

White Lake lies within the Khorgo-Terkhiin Tsagaan Nuur National Park, which encompasses a protected area of volcanic mountains, grasslands, and pristine water ecosystems.

🌟 Why Visit Terkhiin Tsagaan Lake?

✅ Scenic Beauty

A high-altitude freshwater lake with crystal-clear water

Framed by extinct volcanoes and rolling hills

✅ Khorgo Volcano

A dormant volcano you can hike for panoramic views

Ancient lava flows stretch around the lake

✅ Nomadic Culture

Stay in traditional gers and learn from local herding families

Participate in milking yaks, cooking dairy products, or horseback trekking

✅ Wildlife & Birdwatching

Home to fish species like perch and pike

Migratory birds: geese, cranes, cormorants, and ducks

✅ Ideal for Outdoor Activities

Kayaking, boating, swimming (in summer), and horse riding

🏕️ Things to Do at White Lake

1. Hike to Khorgo Volcano

A 200-meter high volcanic cone just east of the lake

Short but steep hike to the crater’s edge

Stunning 360° views over the lake and lava fields

2. Explore Ancient Lava Fields

Dramatic basalt formations and lava tubes from past eruptions

Called “Basalt Ger” due to their dome-like shape

3. Swim and Relax by the Lake

Summer temperatures are pleasant (15–25°C)

Clear water, sandy shores, and grassy picnic spots

4. Kayaking and Canoeing

Rent a kayak or bring your own

Calm waters in early morning and late evening

5. Horseback Riding with Nomads

Ride around the lake or into the surrounding valleys

Local herders can serve as guides

6. Stay in a Mongolian Ger Camp

Sleep in a felt tent with stove heating

Enjoy traditional food: buuz, khuushuur, and homemade yogurt

7. Watch the Sunrise or Sunset

The light reflects off the lake’s surface in stunning hues

Excellent time for photography and meditation

8. Stargazing

With no nearby cities, this is one of Mongolia’s best spots for stargazing

Clear night skies reveal the Milky Way in spectacular detail

🛖 Where to Stay

🏕️ Ger Camps (Tourist Camps)

Located along the lake’s northern and eastern shores

Offer traditional gers with beds, meals, and hot showers

Recommended camps:

Ikh Khorum Camp

Terkhiin Tsagaan Nuur Eco Camp

Khorgo Tourist Camp

🏕️ Wild Camping

Allowed in designated zones

Make sure to bring your own gear, firewood, and trash bags

Camp near the lake but respect grazing zones and herder families

🍽️ What to Eat

Boiled lamb (khorkhog) cooked in hot stones

Fresh dairy: yogurt, fermented mare’s milk (airag), and cheese

Tsuivan (fried noodles with meat and vegetables)

Most ger camps serve a mix of Mongolian and tourist-friendly meals

🚗 How to Get to Terkhiin Tsagaan Lake

🚙 By Private Vehicle or Tour

Most travelers come via organized jeep tours or self-drive trips

Route: Ulaanbaatar → Kharkhorin → Tsetserleg → Tariat → White Lake

🚌 By Public Transport

Buses go from Ulaanbaatar to Tsetserleg (capital of Arkhangai)

From there, you can take a local van or hire a vehicle to Tariat

🐴 By Horseback (For Adventurers)

Multi-day treks to White Lake are possible from nearby valleys

Guided horse tours are available from Tariat or nearby nomadic families

📆 Best Time to Visit White Lake

🧳 What to Pack

🌱 Responsible Travel Tips

Don’t litter: Take all trash with you or dispose in proper bins

Respect nomads: Always ask before entering gers or taking photos

Stay on trails: Prevent erosion and protect wildlife

Avoid loud music: Enjoy the natural silence and serenity

Buy local: Support herder-run camps and guides

🗺 Sample 3-Day Itinerary Featuring White Lake

📍 Day 1: Kharkhorin → Tsetserleg → Tariat

Drive west through lush valleys

Stop for lunch in Tsetserleg, visit the local museum

Reach Tariat in the evening, overnight in ger camp

📍 Day 2: Khorgo Volcano & White Lake

Morning hike up Khorgo Volcano

Afternoon: relax by the lake, go kayaking or swimming

Evening: traditional Mongolian dinner and star gazing

📍 Day 3: Horseback Ride & Departure

Half-day horse trek with local guide

Begin drive back toward Kharkhorin or continue westward to Zavkhan or Khuvsgul

🎒 For Adventure Travelers

White Lake is a great base for multi-day horseback trekking, cycling expeditions, or connecting with Khangai Mountains hiking trails. You can even arrange to travel from here toward Khuvsgul Lake, with stops at hidden lakes and high pastures along the way.

🧠 Fun Facts About White Lake

Created by a lava dam blocking a river after the Khorgo eruption thousands of years ago

“Terkh” in Mongolian means “reed” or “rush,” referring to vegetation around the lake

In summer, locals believe the lake has healing properties and come to bathe or soak feet

🧭 Final Thoughts

If you’re looking to experience Mongolia’s wild landscapes, warm hospitality, and untouched nature in one place, Terkhiin Tsagaan Lake—White Lake—is the perfect destination. It combines raw natural beauty with the heart of Mongolian culture and delivers moments of peace, reflection, and adventure in equal measure.

Whether you come for a night or stay a week, the memories of this tranquil blue lake under wide skies will stay with you forever.