Highest point in Mongolia - Discover Altai

Khüiten Peak, also known as Mount Khüiten, is the highest point in Mongolia. It is situated in the far west of the country, on the border with Russia, at the foot of Mount Tavan Bogd.

Khüiten Peak is 4,374 metres (14,350 ft) high and is the highest mountain in the Mongolian Altai mountain range. The chain of 5 mountains in the country represent 5 saints, and each mountain is named for a different saint:

Khuiten meaning “cold”,
Burged meaning “the eagle”,
Olgii meaning “cradle”,
Malchin meaning “the herder”
Nairamdal meaning “friendship”.

WHAT CAN YOU SEE THERE?

The magnificent peak of Khuiten is protected by Altai Tavan Bogd National Park, a haven of breathtaking beauty. Glaciated peaks, turquoise lakes, and enormous grass-covered vallies inhabited by Kazakh herders and eagle hunters make for a panorama that is spellbinding.

Lower down the hill, you may spot animals including lynxes, foxes, and eagles. Some green pastures are also available lower down the hill. This peak is unique in every respect because it experiences sub-zero temperatures all year.

The region is also rich in archeological sites; in fact, many examples of prehistoric man have been discovered nearby. The area boasts a high number of yeti sightings too; one trip report even claims that climbers spotted tracks while en route to climb Mt. Snow Church, which is just one valley over from Khüiten.

CLIMBING THE HIGHEST POINT IN MONGOLIA

Mongolian mountaineers climbed Khuiten Peak in 1956. In 2013, the National Geographic Society ranked it as one of the world’s top ten dangerous climbs.

Situated in a remote location with treacherous terrain, Khüiten Peak is one of the most difficult mountains to climb in Mongolia. Despite this, it remains a popular destination for mountaineers and hikers alike. The first successful ascent was made by a Japanese expedition in 1938.

Mongolia’s biggest glacier, Potanine, is highly visible from the peak, as are other summits located in Russia and China. The climb to the top isn’t challenging by mountaineering standards, but rather it’s the journey through this remote and remarkable place that attracts most visitors. The ideal time to climb is between June and August.

The Altai mountain region is a pristine example of what the world looked like during the last glacial period, which ended around 11,000 years ago. Khüiten Peak is a window into that world, and climbing it is an opportunity to feel like you’ve stepped back in time. So don’t miss out on this chance.