Western Mongolia
Western Mongolia is a region in Mongolia covering the provinces (or Aimags) of Bayan-Ulgii, Khovd, Uvs and Zavkhan. It is the most remote region of the country with paved roads from the capital, Ulaanbaatar, ending 320 km (200 miles) before reaching the eastern most point of Zavkhan. It is also the most ethnically diverse, mountainous and scenic region of Mongolia, with thousands of years of history. The region is home to the Kazakhs, a Muslim tribe from near the Caspian Sea, and Oirats or western Mongols which can be divided into 10 different tribes as well as Khalkhs or eastern Mongols. In addition to the ethnic diversity, the region is home to the Altai Mountain Range with the highest peaks in Mongolia, Lake Uvs, a large saltwater lake, and many smaller lakes, mountains, rivers, forests and steppe. Spread throughout the region are countless archeological sites with petroglyphs, cave paintings, standing stone monuments, monasteries and ancient forts that date back as far as 10,000 years.
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Geology
Western Mongolia’s geology is characterized by its complex tectonic history, mountainous terrain, and evidence of past glaciation. The region features the Altai Mountains, a major mountain range with high peaks and evidence of past glaciation, as well as active faults that have been responsible for significant earthquakes.
Climate
Western Mongolia, particularly the Altai Mountains, has a very cold climate with long, harsh winters and short, relatively mild summers. Temperatures can be extreme with average lows well below freezing throughout the winter and occasional drops to -30°C (-22°F) or lower. Summers, while warmer still see average temperatures below 20°C (68°F) in the mountain regions. The region experiences low precipitation with the mountains receiving slightly more than the desert areas in the south.
People and Economy
Western Mongolia is home to diverse ethnic groups with the Kazakhs being the most prominent minority group particularly concentrated in Bayan-Ulgii province. Other groups include various Oirat tribes (such as Dorvods and Myangads) and some ethnic Mongols. The region is known for its nomadic culture especially among the Kazakhs who maintain traditional practices and live in gers (yurts).
Western Mongolia’s economy is primarily agricultural with a focus on livestock herding and wool production. While the region has poor infrastructure and limited access to major markets, there are signs of development and growth thanks to projects like international transit corridors and a growing wool processing industry.
Animal Life
Western Mongolia is known for its diverse wildlife including the snow leopard, wild Bactrian camel, argali sheep and Przewalski’s horse. Other notable animals include the Gobi bear, Mongolian gazelle and various birds of prey like golden eagles and saker falcons. The region’s mountainous and steppe landscapes support a range of species adapted to its unique conditions.
Plant Life
Western Mongolia is characterized by a diverse range of plant life influenced by its mountainous terrain and varied ecosystems. The region features coniferous forests dominated by larch, shrublands with juniper and alpine vegetation with rhododendrons and other flowering plants. Steppe and desert regions also support unique plant communities adapted to arid conditions.
