Khongoryn Els
Хонгорын Элс
One of Mongolia's largest dune fields, about 100 km long and up to about 300 m high. The sand roars when it shifts in the wind, which is why it is called the “Singing Sand.”
Khongoryn Els lies in the western part of Gobi Gurvansaikhan National Park. It stretches about 100 km along the northern foot of the Gobi-Altai Mountains and is several kilometers wide. The tallest dune rises about 300 m above the ground. On the north side of the dunes, the Khongor River creates a green meadow belt that contrasts sharply with the golden sand. When the sand slides down the slopes, it makes a low rumbling sound, which is why the dunes are also called the “Singing Sand.” Classic activities include riding Bactrian camels at the foot of the dunes with herder families (about 1–2 hours), and climbing the tallest dune on foot in the evening. The slope is steep and the sand is soft, so the climb to the top takes about an hour. From the crest you can watch the sunset and then slide down. There are many ger camps nearby, and the night sky is spectacular. Note: climbing dunes is physically demanding, so bring plenty of water and a headscarf. Protect your camera from sand, and hold tightly to the front hump of the saddle when riding a camel.
Opening hours
All day
Nearby sights
- Khavtsgait Petroglyphs
- Bayanzag Saxaul Forest
- Flaming Cliffs (Bayanzag)
- Dungenee Am
- Moltsog Els
- Yolyn Am
- South Gobi Aimag Museum
- Dalanzadgad