Mongolia country info

The population of Mongolia is currently about 2.7 million people. Over 1 million of these people live in the modern capital city of Ulan Baatar, leaving less than 2 million people scattered across an area the size of Western Europe. Enjoying one of the lowest population densities in the world, Mongolia is known for its wide open and unspoiled scenery, largely thanks to its low population.

The oldest traditional religion in Mongolian is Shaminism, or the "Worship of the great blue sky." Mongolians have felt a deeply profound connection to the nature of the country for centuries and the religion's roots go back milennia. Many Mongolians today will still consult a shamin in traditonal ceremonies to name a child, get advice, or hear about their future.

The other major religion in Mongolia is Buddhism. Close historically and culturally to Tibetan Buddhism, this is the largest religion in Mongolia today. Examples of Buddhist temples in Mongolia are the Princess Temple or Gandan Monestary in Ulan Baatar which also houses one of the largest Buddhist Universities in the world.

There are also a small minority of Christians and Muslims in Mongolia today as well.

Nomadic culture has been a part of Mongolian history for centuries. Today this lifestyle is diminishing around the world at an alarming rate, yet Mongolia is one of the few countries in the world where the pracitce is living on in the rural areas of the country. Mongolian families typically move 2-3 times a year in search of good pasture for their animals and protection from the harsh climate in winter. The Mongolian ger is the tradtional felt tent used for housing an entire family that can be easily broken down and carried to the next spot. Taking only a few hours to break down and re assemble, its one of the most practical things about the Mongolian nomadic lifestyle.

Mongolian culture is extremely different from its neighbors in Asia. Having always been at the crossroads of history along the silk road as well as once containing the largest empire in world history. Mongolia has influenced world history with its unique culture while at the same time staying distinct in the age of globalization, maintaining its unique cultural heritage. Much of this heritage you can see in the Mongolian countryside as you explore what being a nomad is truely like. History comes alive at the Nadaam festival in July each year and can easily be seen thoroughout the year in this exciting country!