Tsagaan suvarga

Tsagaan Suvarga, situated in the Gobi Desert, is a distinctive location with a history rooted in its past life as an ocean bed. Visitors exploring this site encounter marine fossils and clamshells amid the vibrant landscape of a 30m-60m high and 6000m long limestone formation. Accessible through a 420 km paved road and an additional 30 km on an unpaved road from Ulaanbaatar, travelers often take a break at the center of Dundgovi province before embarking on a 156 km journey to reach the Tsagaan Suvarga scenic spot.

Referred to as the 'White Stupa,' this geological wonder earned its name due to the reverence and worship it receives, reminiscent of a Stupa or majestic mountain (khairkhan). Spanning 400 meters horizontally and rising steeply to the east, the White Stupa reaches a height of 60 meters, resembling a magnificent castle. Visitors are literally taken to the top of the Stupa, where they can walk to the cliff's edge and witness the beautiful sandstone formation.

Once atop the White Stupa, observers can appreciate the colorful low hills below, gradually flattening into a wide valley. Composed of diverse ores and chemical compositions like iron and calcium, the sandstone formations display vibrant colors  when exposed to oxygen. Legend has it that this area was once an ancient sea, leaving behind a colorful seabed with various sedimentary deposits after the waters receded thousands of years ago.

 

 

Caution is advised when descending from the Stupa or navigating the low hills, as the terrain can be slippery. Visitors are encouraged to carry water, considering the strong winds in the area. The location is particularly enchanting during sunset.

Several tourist camps operate in the region, such as the Tsagaan Suvarga tourist camp to the east of the White Stupa and the Govi Suvarga tourist camp to the west. Hiking enthusiasts can embark on an hour-long walk from the Stupa to either camp across the seabed. Nomadic families in the vicinity welcome and host tourists, offering additional gers and meals. This provides an opportunity for visitors to learn about desert nomads, their camel herding practices, and even partake in camel riding.

Late August or early September in autumn is considered the ideal time to visit Tsagaan Suvarga. During this period, the weather is mild, avoiding extremes of heat or cold, and the number of tourists tends to decrease. The region, located in a warm climate and semi-arid steppe zone, offers a captivating experience for those exploring its unique geological and historical features.

 

Activities to do

 

 

Whether you opt for accommodation in a camp or a family guest house, you have the opportunity to partake in camel riding experiences. The duration can be chosen between 30 minutes or an hour.

• Del Uul, adorned with rock paintings, is situated to the south of Tsagaan Suvarga's White Stupa. Spanning 17 km in length and 8 km in width, this mountain features low peaks and harbors approximately 3000 ancient petroglyphs, around 20 square graves, and other inscriptions scattered across its expanse. From the late Iron Age to the Mongol Empire of the 13th century, the mountain has become a significant focal point for archaeologists. While it may be challenging to explore all the archaeological sites, you can appreciate the petroglyphs during a leisurely hour-long walk around the mountain.

• If your travels coincide with late September, you can partake in the local festival known as 'Ikh Goviin Temee' (Camels of Great Gobi). This annual event aims to boost tourism, increase the camel population, and enhance the efficiency of camel herding practices. The festival offers a range of activities, including camel polo, a parade of camel riders, camel races, and exhibitions featuring camel dairy and non-dairy products.