Khar Zurkhnii Khokh Nuur, also known as the Black Heart Blue Lake, is a historically and culturally significant freshwater lake situated in the Khentii province of Mongolia. This lake holds a special place in Mongolian history as it is believed to be the place where Temujin was declared Genghis Khan in 1189. The lake is surrounded by scenic landscapes, including the Khar Zurkh Mountain, and offers a serene and picturesque environment. The area is not only a natural beauty but also a pilgrimage place for those interested in Mongolian heritage and the legacy of Genghis Khan.

Understand

Khar Zurkhnii Khokh Nuur means "The Blue Lake of the Black Heart." The name is derived from the dark, heart-shaped mountain (Khar Zurkh) that sits near the lake, coupled with the striking blue color of the water. The lake's crystal-clear blue waters are a major draw. The dark, heart-shaped mountain adds to the unique beauty of the area and surrounding region is rich in biodiversity, with various plant and animal species.

Get in

Khar Zurkhnii Khokh Nuur

Khar Zurkhnii Khokh Nuur

Khar Zurkhnii Khokh Nuur

By car: From Ulaanbaatar, the journey to Khar Zurkhnii Khokh Nuur covers approximately 330 kilometers (205 miles). The drive typically takes around 6-8 hours, depending on road conditions and stops along the way.

By plane: The nearest airport is in the town of Khentii. Flights from Ulaanbaatar to Khentii take about 1 hour. From Khentii, Khar Zurkhnii Khokh Nuur is approximately 100 kilometers (62 miles) away, and the drive takes about 2-3 hours.

See

The pointed mountain near the lake is a significant feature. Lake itself offers picturesque views and a serene environment and a plaque marks the spot where Temujin was crowned Genghis Khan.

Do

There are many casual sports games are organized by camps. Also horse riding available in nearby areas, typically costing around 20,000-30,000 tögrög per hour. Several trails around the lake and mountains offer opportunities for hiking. The area is rich in birdlife, making it a great spot for bird watchers.

Buy

Local markets and souvenir shops in nearby towns offer traditional Mongolian crafts, such as:

• Handicrafts: Felt products, leather goods, and traditional clothing.
• Local Art: Paintings and sculptures depicting nomadic life and the Mongolian landscape.
• Souvenirs: Keychains, magnets, and other memorabilia.

Eat

Tour camps offer various local and European dishes. Additionally, some locals provide fresh horse mare milk airag other dairy products such ascheese, yogurt, and other products made from horse, and camel milk. Traditional Dishes buuz (steamed dumplings), khuushuur (fried meat pastries), and tsuivan (stir-fried noodles with meat and vegetables).

Sleep

• Mungun agt tourist camp, ☏ +976 99114777, enkhbayarc@hotmail.com. 

Bringing your own tent and sleeping almost anywhere in the area is possible.

Go next

Go to Elsen tasarkhai Gobi Gurvan Saikhan National Park Altai Tavan Bogd National Park