For seventy years the communist state of Mongolia was all but closed to the West. Then in 1990 it sprang to life, abandoning communism and opening its boundless steppes to the outside world. Jasper Becker, one of the first westerners to cross the border, here relates his travels in this fascinating region and pieces together Mongolia's strange and turbulent history. "Lamas, nuns, politicians and scientists have compelling stories of murder, genocide and cultural destruction to tell. Their accounts are interspersed with excellent travelers' tales, and Becker's own trips.... His account of Marshal Choibalsan's terror is an especially valuable piece of historical reconstruction." --Times Literary Supplement Top
 

A Hundred Routes Through Mongolia is a compilation of materials collected by Sharavyn Shagdar as he traveled over the past 60 years through the territories, soums, and aimags in Mongolia. Color maps of the routes indicating distances, scenic and historical areas, cultural sights, route options, weather indices, population and herd sizes, and the location of tourist camps are highly informative. Also included are chapters on the geography and history of Mongolia and its nature reserves, protected areas, and national parks. Top
 

Let the adventure begin! Ride a camel across the sun-scorched Gobi, feast by moonlight at the bottomless lake of Uureg Nuur, and experience traditional archery and wrestling at the Naadam Festival. Escape to the ends of the earth in the footsteps of the first Mongol nomads. All you need is a strong pair of boots and this bestselling guidebook. Included are detailed maps and GPS coordinates for hundreds of key sites; reviews of the country's best ger camps (Mongolia's famous felt-tent abodes); inspiring itineraries through the "Land of Blue Sky" with its magical monasteries and spectacular ice canyons; culture and history chapters packed with fascinating insights and little-known facts; and a language chapter to ease communication. Top
 

Outer Mongolia is one of the few places on earth where travelers can still explore with a true sense of adventure. Vast tracts of this "Land of Blue Sky" can be discovered on the back of horse or camel for an authentic cultural experience in the style of Genghis Khan's mounted army, or in the comfort of four-wheel drive. Comprehensive coverage of the opportunities for riding, climbing, fishing, biking, and rafting are provided for this top global destination for adventure tourism. Details of the best ways to enjoy Mongolia's festivals are also brought to the fore, especially the famed Naadam--the colorful annual celebration of wrestling, archery, and horse riding, and Tsaagan Sar--the Mongolian New Year. Mongolian hospitality is legendary, making responsible travel and Bradt's customary "giving something back" advice especially relevant for travelers. In-depth information on national parks, wildlife, conservation and flora; language, pronunciation and useful phrases; the Trans-Mongolian/Trans-Siberian railway; and 37 clear, detailed maps are also included.--Amazon.com Top