Gorkhi-Terelj National Park 
Khan Khentii Strictly Protected Area
In 1993, the Gorkhi-Terelj area was gazetted as a National Park, specialy because of its natural scenic beauty it has been used as a tourism destination by both Mongolians and foreigners since 1964. The park is situated only 50 km Northeast of the capital city Ulaanbaatar, in the Southern foothills of the Khentii Mountains. The park's most spectacular features are its huge granite blocks and cliffs as well as meadows rich in wild flowers. The two major rivers, the Tuul and the Terelj, are important as a water resource for Ulaanbaatar.
Khan Khentii was established as a Strictly Protected Area in 1992. The rugged mountainous area is one of the last large wildness areas in Mongolia. Bordering on the Gorkhi-Terelj National Park in the South, it extends up to the Russian border. The central part is uninhabited and can be entered only on foot or horseback. Hot springs along the Onon River are famous for their  therapeutic qualities. Then Khentii Mountains have great historical significance as the birthplace of Chinggis Khan. Researchers are still searching for his tomb.
The biggest rivers of Mongolia have their source in the Khentii Mountains. They provide drinking water to Mongolia's largest cities.
The mountain steppe is particularly rich in species and colors. Here, plants can be found from all parts of the continent: species from the Arctic tundra and northern coniferous forests grow next to Mongolian steppe grass; species of Euro-Siberian forest steppe shrubs reach into the Khentii from the west; species of Manchurian-Daurian steppe herbs extend into the area from the east. Meadows that are grazed on less have a more diverse flora. Edelweis (Lentopodium lentopodiodes) meadows are widespread.
[More...]