Mongolia Seeks to Revive Tourism with Unique Offerings

Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia (AP) — In a bid to rejuvenate its tourism sector, which suffered significantly during the COVID-19 pandemic, Mongolia has launched the “Welcome to MonGOlia” campaign. The initiative aims to attract visitors seeking unique experiences, such as reindeer sleigh rides and camel racing, amidst the country's breathtaking landscapes. In the first seven months of this year, foreign tourist arrivals reached 437,000, marking a 25% increase compared to the same period last year, with notable growth from Europe, the U.S., Japan, and a near doubling of visitors from South Korea. With a population of 3.3 million, half of whom reside in the capital, Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia offers vast open spaces for adventure tourism. Tour companies are promoting customized itineraries that include horseback riding and camping in traditional gers, the felt-covered homes of local herders. The country has gained recognition as a top travel destination, as highlighted by Lonely Planet's Best in Travel 2024 report, and the recent visit from the Pope has further spotlighted Mongolia on the global stage. Cultural events, such as the rise of local breakdancers at the Asian Games and the international success of the folk-metal band The Hu, have also contributed to increasing interest in Mongolia. Despite this, many potential tourists remain unaware of what the country has to offer. Local tourism officials emphasize the need to showcase Mongolia's diverse nature and rich cultural heritage to attract more visitors.