About To'v

To'v Province, nestled in the heart of Mongolia's vast steppe, offers an authentic and rugged adventure for travelers seeking to experience the nomadic soul of Central Asia. This remote region is characterized by endless rolling grasslands, dramatic mountain ranges like the Khangai, and the life-giving waters of the Orkhon River. To'v is the cultural cradle of Mongolia, home to the ancient capital of Karakorum, where the ruins of Genghis Khan's empire whisper tales of a mighty past. Visitors can explore the Erdene Zuu Monastery, Mongolia's oldest Buddhist monastery, a serene complex that stands as a testament to spiritual resilience. The province is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with opportunities for horseback riding across the steppe, hiking in the Khangai Mountains, and witnessing the spectacular Orkhon Waterfall. The annual Naadam Festival in the provincial capital, Tsetserleg, showcases the 'Three Manly Games' of wrestling, horse racing, and archery, providing a vibrant immersion into Mongolian culture. Travelers to To'v will find a land where traditional ger (yurt) life continues, offering warm hospitality and a profound connection to nature and history.

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Travel Tips for To'v

Getting Around

Public transportation is very limited. The main hub is Tsetserleg. Minibuses and shared jeeps operate between towns and to Ulaanbaatar, but schedules are irregular. The most practical way to explore To'v's remote attractions is by hiring a 4x4 vehicle with a driver/guide from Ulaanbaatar or a local tour operator in Tsetserleg. This is essential for reaching sites like Karakorum and the Orkhon Valley. Domestic flights do not serve To'v directly. Horseback riding is a traditional and popular way to traverse the steppe, often arranged through ger camps or tour guides. Taxis are available in Tsetserleg for local trips; negotiate fares before departure. There are no ride-sharing apps.

Best Time To Visit

Mid-June to early September is the best time to visit. This period offers the most pleasant weather, with warm days (15-25°C/59-77°F), lush green landscapes, and the major Naadam Festival held in July. It is the peak tourist season. Late May and September can also be good, with fewer crowds, but nights are colder. Winter (October to April) is extremely harsh, with temperatures plunging well below freezing, and many services are closed. Spring (April-May) can be windy and dusty.

Local Customs

Respect is paramount. Always accept offered food and drink (like airag - fermented mare's milk) with your right hand, palm up. Never step on the threshold of a ger. When entering a ger, move clockwise. Pointing with your finger is impolite; use an open hand. Dress modestly, especially when visiting monasteries. Shorts are often frowned upon. When receiving an item, use your right hand or both hands. Tipping is not a traditional custom but is becoming more common in tourist areas; 5-10% in restaurants or for guides is appreciated. Always ask permission before taking photos of people, their homes, or livestock.

Safety Information

To'v is generally safe with low crime rates, but standard precautions apply. Petty theft can occur in crowded areas or markets. Be vigilant with personal belongings. The main risks are environmental. Weather can change rapidly; be prepared for extreme cold, wind, and snow outside summer months. Road conditions are poor, and many are unpaved. Only experienced drivers should attempt off-road travel, preferably with a local guide and a suitable 4x4 vehicle. Livestock on roads is a constant hazard. Avoid isolated areas after dark. There are no specific tourist-targeted scams, but always agree on prices for services (like taxis or horse rentals) beforehand. Respect local customs to avoid causing offense.

Health Information

Medical facilities in To'v are basic. The provincial hospital in Tsetserleg can handle minor issues, but serious conditions require evacuation to Ulaanbaatar. Travelers must have comprehensive travel health insurance covering medical evacuation. Common concerns include traveler's diarrhea, respiratory infections due to dust and cold, and altitude sickness in mountainous areas. Ensure routine vaccinations (MMR, diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis, chickenpox, polio, flu) are up-to-date. Hepatitis A, Typhoid, and Rabies vaccinations are recommended. Tick-borne encephalitis is a risk in wooded/grassy areas from spring to autumn. Carry a well-stocked personal first-aid kit and any prescription medications. Water should be boiled, filtered, or consumed from sealed bottles.

Languages Spoken

MongolianKazakh (minority)

Quick Facts

Currency

Mongolian Tugrik (MNT)
₮

Timezone

Asia/Ulaanbaatar +08:00 (GMT)

Calling Code

+976

Electricity

Type C, E; 230V, 50Hz
Socket types →

Driving Side

Right

Population

95,000

Area

74000 km²

Government

Provincial Government (Aimag)

ISO Code

TOV

About To'v

Things to do in To'v

Truffle Hunting and 3-course Truffle Brunch in Motovun

Portovenere Cinque Terre Amazing Private Boat Tour from La Spezia

Cinque Terre and Portovenere Private Boat Tour from La Spezia

Portovenere & Three Islands Small Group Boat Tour from La Spezia

Dolce Vita 5Terre&Portovenere: Full Day Tour with Lunch

Portovenere & the Islands: Your Sunset Experience - Private Tour

Portovenere & Three Islands Sunset Boat Tour from La Spezia

Portovenere private tour

Livorno Private Shore Excursion to Portovenere and the Cinque Terre

Durmitor – Bobotov kuk (2.523m) Hiking Tour

Portovenere and the Cinque Terre Private Shore Excursion from La Spezia

Private Grand Canyon Day Tour with Lunch at El Tovar Lodge

Lucca Private Day Trip To Portovenere & Cinque Terre

Portovenere&Lerici PrivateTour byvan from Lucca,Pisa or LaSpezia

Tour of Portovenere and the Islands at Sunset

Places to visit in To'v

Камбар

Общежитие

Grand Hotel Victory

Элем-Т

Aston Hotel

Три дельфина

Жер уйык

Жеруик

Chagala Hotel

B&B Aktau

Мерей

Keremet

Holiday Inn Aktau

Мандарин

Шанырак