Getting There
The dunes are situated around 180km from Dalanzadgad, the capital of Umnugovi region. To get to Dalanzadgad from Ulaanbaatar it’s around 550km by bus (a journey of approximately nine hours). Once in Dalanzadgad, the dunes can be reached by hiring a vehicle or joining a tour.
What to Expect
Covering an area of 965 square kilometres and stretching for 100km, Khongoryn Els are both Mongolia’s largest and tallest sand dunes. They’re spectacular from afar but there’s nothing like getting up close. Also known as the Singing Dunes (Duut Mankhan), the dunes emit a loud rumbling noise from when the sand is shifted by the wind. Here you can arrange camel treks with local herders, which offer a memorable way to experience the dunes, particularly at sunset.
History
Near the dunes are the Khavtsgait Petroglyphs, dating between 8000 BC and 3000 BC.
Facilities Available
There are no facilities here but local herders can assist with desert safaris which will include camping and meals.
