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7 Breathtaking Photography Locations in Mongolia for 2025 (From a Local’s Lens)

Discover the 7 most photogenic locations in Mongolia for 2025 with this insider's guide. From the vast steppes and Gobi Desert to the ancient monasteries and nomadic culture, learn where to capture Mongolia's best light.

My Photography Journey Through Mongolia’s Untamed Beauty

The first time I witnessed Mongolia’s endless horizon in 2018, I literally gasped and almost dropped my brand-new Sony α7 III. Seven years and countless visits later, I’m still captivated by the raw photographic potential of this land. Last summer, as I stood atop a hill watching eagle hunters practice at sunset near Ölgii, tears welled in my eyes at the sheer beauty and privilege of capturing such moments. Mongolia isn’t just photogenic—it’s soul-stirring.

Whether you’re planning your first photography expedition to Mongolia or returning for more of its visual treasures, this guide compiles my hard-earned knowledge about the best photography locations, ideal timing, cultural considerations, and practical tips that no generic travel site will tell you.

Top Photography Destinations in Mongolia

Mongolia offers an astonishing variety of landscapes and cultural moments to photograph. Here are my top seven recommendations based on years of exploration:

1. Khövsgöl Lake – The Blue Pearl of Mongolia

This massive alpine lake surrounded by forested mountains is a photographer’s paradise, especially during the golden and blue hours. I’ve spent countless dawns here waiting for the perfect moment when mist rises off the water as the sun breaches the eastern peaks.

  • Best time to visit: June-August for summer landscapes, February-March for the Khövsgöl Ice Festival when locals race horses across the frozen lake
  • Ideal gear: Wide-angle lens (16-35mm) for landscapes, telephoto (70-200mm) for wildlife and distant shore details
  • Local tip: The eastern shore offers the best sunrise shots, while sunset is spectacular from the western viewpoints

“Bayarlalaa” (thank you) is one of the first Mongolian phrases you should learn. Showing appreciation when photographing locals goes a long way. Another useful phrase is “Zurag tataj bolokh uu?” which means “May I take a photo?”

2. Gobi Desert – Dramatic Landscapes and Starry Skies

The contrast between the orange-red sand dunes of Khongoryn Els and the deep blue sky creates images that seem almost unreal. One of my biggest mistakes was rushing through the Gobi during my first visit. This landscape demands patience.

My favorite spot is the Khongoryn Els (the Singing Dunes) where massive sand formations create perfect leading lines for composition. The name comes from the sound the sand makes when wind passes over it—an eerie humming I’ve captured on video to accompany my still photography.

Gobi Desert Photography Highlights:

  • Flaming Cliffs of Bayanzag (dinosaur fossil area) at sunset
  • Desert nomads with their Bactrian camels
  • Night photography capturing the Milky Way (some of the darkest skies I’ve photographed)
  • Yolyn Am ice canyon (surprisingly frozen even in summer)

Photographer’s Tip: Bring twice as many lens cleaning supplies as you think you’ll need. The Gobi’s fine sand gets everywhere, and I’ve had to abort shooting sessions due to sand damage. Protective filters are absolutely essential here.

3. Orkhon Valley – UNESCO Heritage and Waterfall Wonder

The Orkhon Valley Cultural Landscape offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and nomadic culture. I vividly remember waking before sunrise to photograph a nomadic family moving their entire ger (yurt) to summer pastures—the entire operation took less than three hours, with the golden light creating a magical scene.

The 8-meter Orkhon waterfall is particularly photogenic in June when the water flow is strongest after the spring melt. The contrast between the black volcanic rock and the white water creates dramatic long-exposure opportunities.

Photography Opportunities:

  1. Orkhon Valley landscape panoramas
  2. Orkhon Waterfall (long exposure shots work beautifully)
  3. Traditional herders with their livestock
  4. Ancient Turkish stone inscriptions
  5. Buddhist temples against the valley backdrop

4. Gorkhi-Terelj National Park – Accessible Wilderness

Just 55km northeast of Ulaanbaatar, Terelj offers distinctive rock formations, alpine scenery, and a taste of nomadic life. I’ve spent countless weekends here over the years since it’s so accessible from the capital.

My favorite subject is the famous Turtle Rock (Melkhii Khad) at different times of day and in various seasons. In winter, the snow-covered formation against pure blue sky creates striking minimalist compositions.

The park also houses the magnificent Ariyabal Meditation Temple, reached by climbing 108 steps (a sacred Buddhist number). From the top, you can capture panoramic views of the entire valley, especially beautiful during autumn when the larch trees turn golden.

Time of Day Best Location in Terelj Photography Focus
Sunrise Eastern ridges Golden light on rock formations
Mid-morning Turtle Rock Fewer tourists, good light angle
Sunset Ariyabal Temple Valley views with golden light
Night Open fields Astrophotography with yurts in foreground

5. Karakorum & Erdene Zuu Monastery – Historical Photography

The ancient capital of the Mongol Empire is now marked by the stunning Erdene Zuu Monastery, Mongolia’s oldest surviving Buddhist monastery. I once spent an entire day just photographing the 108 stupas that surround the monastery complex, watching how the changing light transformed their appearance throughout the day.

The monastery complex looks completely different in various seasons:

  • Winter: Snow-covered stupas against brilliant blue skies (but bitter cold at -30°C)
  • Spring: Soft morning mist with monks in their morning rituals
  • Summer: Vibrant prayer flags against lush green surroundings
  • Autumn: Golden light and fewer tourists

Local insight: For a unique shot, visit during Tsagaan Sar (Lunar New Year, usually in February) when special ceremonies are held. Just be prepared for temperatures that can drop to -40°C! My camera batteries would only last about 15 minutes before needing to be warmed inside my jacket.

6. Altai Mountains – Eagle Hunters and Epic Landscapes

The remote western region of Mongolia, particularly around Bayan-Ölgii province, is home to ethnic Kazakhs who practice the ancient tradition of eagle hunting. My most treasured photographs are from this region, where I spent three weeks living with eagle hunter families.

The annual Golden Eagle Festival in October is a photographer’s dream, but I actually prefer arranging private sessions with hunters during the winter hunting season (November-February) when the landscapes are covered in snow and the hunting is authentic rather than performed for tourists.

The Altai Mountains also offer spectacular landscape photography opportunities with their jagged peaks, glacial valleys, and remote lakes. During summer, you can capture incredibly detailed reflections in the crystal-clear mountain lakes.

Advanced Photography Considerations for Altai:

  • Bring a super-telephoto lens (200-600mm) for eagle flight shots
  • Prepare for extreme temperature fluctuations that affect camera operation
  • Consider drone photography for the vast landscape (but check local regulations)
  • Budget for a local guide/translator who understands photography needs

One time I made the mistake of trying to direct an eagle hunter for a “better composition.” My guide quickly explained that this was culturally insensitive. Instead, I learned to observe and capture authentic moments, which ultimately yielded much more powerful images. Tayj (respect) is essential when photographing cultural traditions.

7. Ulaanbaatar’s Urban Contrasts

Don’t overlook the capital city! While most photographers rush to leave UB for the countryside, I’ve found fascinating urban photography opportunities in the contrast between Soviet-era architecture, modern glass skyscrapers, and traditional elements.

My favorite locations include:

  • Zaisan Memorial – Offering panoramic views of the entire city, especially spectacular at sunset
  • Gandan Monastery – The largest functioning monastery in Mongolia, best photographed early morning when monks perform rituals
  • Sukhbaatar Square – The civic heart of the city with impressive government buildings and the giant Genghis Khan statue
  • Ger Districts – The informal settlements surrounding the city offer a stark contrast to downtown

In winter, the city is often covered in a layer of steam from the central heating system, creating an ethereal atmosphere when backlit during golden hour. The temperature inversion also creates interesting fog effects.

Best Seasons for Photography in Mongolia

Mongolia’s extreme continental climate creates dramatically different photography conditions throughout the year:

Summer (June-August)

The most popular season with 16+ hours of daylight. The landscapes are vibrant green, nomadic families are active, and festivals abound. However, this is also tourist season with higher prices and more crowded locations.

I’ve found mid-June to be the sweet spot—before peak tourist season but after the landscapes have greened up following the spring rain. The Naadam Festival in mid-July provides incredible cultural photography opportunities but book accommodations far in advance.

Autumn (September-October)

My personal favorite season. The tourist crowds thin out, the landscapes turn golden, and the light becomes magical. The air clarity is exceptional for landscape photography. Late September to early October offers comfortable daytime temperatures but chilly nights.

Winter (November-February)

For the adventurous photographer, winter offers stunning minimalist landscapes, frozen lakes, and unique cultural photography like the Ice Festival. The extraordinarily clear air and low sun angle create beautiful light all day long.

I once spent three hours at -35°C (-31°F) photographing a herder bringing his horses to water through morning frost smoke. My eyelashes froze, but the ethereal images were worth it. Just be prepared for serious cold-weather photography challenges.

Spring (March-May)

The least favorable season photographically. Dust storms are common, the landscape is brown before turning green, and many tourist facilities remain closed. However, late May can offer uncrowded experiences just as the landscape begins to transform.

Essential Photography Gear for Mongolia

Camera Equipment

  • Weather-sealed camera bodies – Dust and occasional rain/snow are inevitable
  • Versatile zoom lenses – I typically carry a 16-35mm, 24-70mm, and 70-200mm
  • Sturdy tripod – Wind is constant in Mongolia; a flimsy tripod is useless
  • Polarizing filters – Essential for the intensely blue skies and to cut glare
  • ND filters – For long exposures of waterfalls and moving clouds
  • Extra batteries – Cold temperatures drain batteries quickly
  • Lens cleaning supplies – Dust is a constant challenge, especially in the Gobi

Personal Gear

Having the right personal equipment is as important as your camera gear:

  • Layers of clothing – Temperatures can swing 20°C (68°F) in a single day
  • Sturdy hiking boots – Many photography locations require hiking over rough terrain
  • Sun protection – The UV index is extreme at Mongolia’s high altitude
  • Fingerless gloves with mitten covers – Essential for winter photography
  • Portable power bank – For charging devices when off-grid

One of my worst mistakes: During my second trip, I brought only regular hiking boots to photograph winter eagle hunting. By the end of day one, I had frostbite on two toes because I wasn’t moving enough while waiting for the perfect shot. Now I always pack proper expedition-grade boots for winter photography.

Cultural Considerations for Photographers

Respectful photography is essential in Mongolia, where traditional customs remain strong:

Photographing People

  • Always ask permission before photographing people up close (“Zurag tataj bolokh uu?”)
  • Offering small gifts or showing your photos to subjects creates goodwill
  • Never photograph inside a ger (yurt) without explicit permission
  • Be especially respectful around religious ceremonies

Sacred Spaces

Mongolia has many sacred natural sites and religious locations:

  • Photography may be prohibited inside certain temples
  • Never climb on ovoos (sacred stone cairns) for a better shot
  • Walk clockwise around Buddhist religious structures
  • Remove hats when entering temples or sacred areas

Compensation Ethics

I’ve developed a personal approach to fair compensation:

  • For casual street photography, asking permission is usually sufficient
  • For posed portraits or extended sessions, offer fair payment (₮10,000-20,000 or $3-6 is appropriate)
  • When photographing with nomadic families who host you, bring meaningful gifts rather than money
  • Always follow through if you promise to send photos to subjects

Insider Money-Saving Photography Tips

1. Transportation Hacks

Transportation is one of the biggest expenses for photographers in Mongolia:

  • Share jeep costs – Use the Mongolia Travel Partners Facebook group to find other travelers to share vehicle costs
  • Mix transport modes – Take public buses to provincial centers, then arrange shorter local jeep trips
  • Negotiate multi-day discounts – Drivers offer significant discounts for multi-day bookings paid upfront in cash

Last year, I saved over $400 by finding three other photographers to share a 10-day journey through the Gobi. We paid ₮4,800,000 ($1,400) total instead of ₮1,600,000 ($470) each for solo travel.

2. Accommodation Alternatives

Skip expensive tourist ger camps when possible:

  • Home-stay networks – Use Couchsurfing in cities and towns
  • Community-based tourism – Organizations like Mongol Naadam connect travelers with nomadic families for authentic stays at half the price of tourist camps
  • Camping – Mongolia’s freedom to camp anywhere makes this a viable option in summer (just respect nomadic land use)

When staying with nomadic families, I bring practical gifts that are hard to obtain in remote areas: good quality knives, headlamps with extra batteries, or polarized sunglasses. These items typically cost me ₮30,000-50,000 ($9-15) but are deeply appreciated and create meaningful connections that lead to better photography opportunities.

3. Equipment Protection on a Budget

Mongolia’s harsh conditions can damage equipment:

  • Use silicone baking bags instead of expensive camera rain covers
  • Make DIY dust covers from shower caps collected from hotels
  • Keep silica gel packets from other products to use as free desiccants in your camera bag
  • Use thick wool socks as lens pouches in winter to prevent condensation when moving between temperature extremes

Sustainable Photography Practices

Mongolia’s pristine environments are increasingly under threat. As photographers, we have a responsibility to practice and promote sustainable tourism:

Environmental Considerations

  • Pack out all trash – No exceptions, even biodegradable items
  • Use rechargeable batteries – Bring a solar charger for remote locations
  • Stay on established tracks – Off-road driving causes lasting damage to fragile steppe ecosystems
  • Use local reusable water containers – Purchase a traditional Mongolian leather water vessel (khukhuur) instead of plastic bottles

Cultural Sustainability

  • Support local photographers – Consider workshops led by Mongolian photographers
  • Purchase photo prints from local artists – The Blue Mon Gallery in UB showcases excellent Mongolian photography
  • Share your knowledge – Offer to teach basic photography skills to interested locals

On my last trip, I brought a small portable printer and made prints for nomadic families who had never seen physical photographs of themselves. This small gesture cost me about ₮100,000 ($30) in paper and ink but created immense goodwill and more authentic photography opportunities.

Your 5-Step Action Plan for Mongolian Photography in 2025

Ready to capture Mongolia’s photographic treasures? Here’s my tried-and-tested action plan:

  1. Time your visit strategically – Decide whether you want summer colors, autumn gold, or winter minimalism, and book 6-9 months in advance for the best rates and availability
  2. Prepare your gear meticulously – Weatherproof everything, bring redundancies for critical equipment, and pack at least 50% more storage than you think you’ll need
  3. Build in buffer days – Mongolia’s unpredictable weather and road conditions demand flexibility; plan 2-3 extra days for every 10 days of travel
  4. Connect with local fixers early – Establish relationships with drivers and guides who understand photographers’ needs for early mornings, late evenings, and patience at locations
  5. Learn basic post-processing for Mongolia’s unique conditions – The extreme contrast between sky and land often requires HDR techniques or careful exposure blending

My biggest photography revelation in Mongolia came when I stopped chasing “trophy shots” and began immersing myself in one location for days at a time. The depth and variety of images that emerged from this slow photography approach tell much richer stories than my earlier work.

For 2025 specifically, I recommend focusing on the western regions (Altai Mountains and Kazakh eagle hunters) or eastern Mongolia (Dornod steppes) which will see significant infrastructure improvements making them more accessible while still remaining authentic. The central tourist route is becoming increasingly commercialized.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Mongolia safe for solo photographers?

Yes, Mongolia is generally very safe for travelers including solo photographers. Violent crime against foreigners is extremely rare. The biggest safety concerns are practical: vehicle breakdowns in remote areas, weather extremes, and lack of medical facilities. Always share your itinerary with someone, carry a satellite communication device in remote areas, and purchase comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical evacuation.

Do I need special permits for photography in Mongolia?

For most tourist photography, no permits are required. However, commercial photography, film production, and photography using drones may require permits from local authorities. Some national parks charge camera fees (typically ₮5,000-10,000 or $1.50-3). For photography inside active monasteries, always ask permission and expect to pay a small camera fee.

What’s the best way to back up photos while traveling in Mongolia?

Internet connections are too slow and unreliable for cloud backups outside Ulaanbaatar. I use a portable SSD (1TB) as my primary backup and keep it separate from my camera bag. For critical shoots, I also use a laptop with a second backup drive. Remember that extreme temperature fluctuations can affect hard drives, so keep electronic devices insulated in cold weather.

How do I charge camera batteries in remote areas?

Many ger camps run generators only during certain hours (typically 7-10pm). Bring multiple batteries and a power bank for emergency charging. For longer remote trips, a foldable solar panel (60W or higher) with appropriate battery charging accessories is invaluable. In winter, keep batteries in an inside pocket close to your body to maintain their charge in extreme cold.

Is English widely spoken? How do I communicate with subjects?

Outside Ulaanbaatar and major tourist areas, English is not commonly spoken. Learn basic Mongolian phrases, use a translation app that works offline (Google Translate supports Mongolian and can be downloaded for offline use), or hire a local guide/interpreter. Visual communication—showing examples of the photos you want to take—is often effective. For serious photography expeditions, the investment in a guide who understands photography is invaluable.

What are the current photography trends and competitions in Mongolia?

Mongolia has a growing photography community with several competitions open to international photographers. The annual Mongolia Through the Lens competition focuses on cultural documentation, while the World Nomad Games photo contest highlights traditional sports. Social media hashtags like #MongolianNomads and #steppelife showcase current work from both local and international photographers in the region.

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