Ulaanbaatar,Mongolia — Mongolia's stepping up as a travel hotspot,with 2023 looking like breakthrough year for tourism. Government's loosened entry rules,allowing citizens from 34 more countries to visit visa-free till end of 2025 . Total visa-exempt nations now 61, including European countries,Australia.
Infrastructure's getting a boost too. The new Chinggis Khaan International Airport,opened summer 2021,handles up to 3 million passengers yearly,doubling old airport's capacity. More facilities,500 new aircraft parking spaces mean better domestic,international travel. Budget flights to Hong Kong are back,talks on for direct flights to U.S.
Visitors can dive into Mongolia's history at the new Chinggis Khaan Museum. Over 10,000 artifacts span 2,000 years of history. Six permanent,two temporary exhibition halls. English tours on weekends,free.
For cultural buffs, annual Naadam festival is must-see . Marks 100th anniversary in 2023,features traditional sports like horse racing,wrestling,archery,echoing Genghis Khan's legacy. Held at National Sports Stadium in Ulaanbaatar,tickets for opening ceremony are hot.
Music scene's buzzing too. Festivals like Spirit of Gobi,INTRO Electronic Music Festival bring in international,local acts. Turning country into festival goers' dream .
Thrill seekers can try traditional Mongolian archery at Namnaa Academy. Learn basics,then practice on horseback . Weekly demos in summer,day-long sessions for those keen to learn this ancient skill.
Another cultural highlight: revival of Mongol bichig,traditional script. Visitors can learn from master calligraphist Tamir Samandbadraa Purev at Erdenesiin Khuree Mongolian Calligraphy Center in Karakorum. His works also on display.
For adventurous souls,Eagle Hunter Tour offers wild motorcycle ride. 1,700 kilometers from Ulaanbaatar to Bayan-Ulgii to meet Mongolia's famed eagle hunters. Fast-paced,jaw-dropping landscapes .
Winter's got its own charm here. Pro musher Joel Rauzy leads dogsled tours across frozen Lake Khuvsgul. Ice fishing,staying in winterized yurts,gives taste of nomadic life.
Yeruu Lodge in Selenge province blends Scandinavian design with Mongolian warmth. Founded by Norwegian Eirik Gulsrud Johnsen,offers eco-friendly stays,activities like kayaking,yoga. Focus on sustainability with recycling,composting.
Rich culture,stunning landscapes,easier access… Mongolia's set to draw new wave of travelers eager to see what it offers. Will they come?
