Mongolia,s Eastern Steppes: A Journey from India to the Land of Endless Skies

If you’ve ever wanted to see what “vast” truly means, Mongolia’s Eastern Steppes will redefine it for you. Imagine standing in the middle of endless grasslands where the sky feels larger than life, the wind hums softly, and the only sounds are galloping horses and distant herds of sheep. It’s raw, peaceful, and beautifully untouched.
For an Indian traveler craving something beyond beaches and bustling cities, this is a once-in-a-lifetime escape.

How to Travel from India to Mongolia
There are no direct flights from India to Mongolia, but reaching there is fairly smooth with connecting routes. The most common way is to fly from Delhi or Mumbai to Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia’s capital, with a layover in cities like Seoul, Istanbul, or Almaty. The journey may take around 12 to 18 hours depending on the route, but the adventure truly begins once you land.
Indian passport holders need a visa to visit Mongolia, so apply in advance through the Mongolian embassy. The best time to visit the Eastern Steppes is between June and September when the weather is pleasant and the grasslands are lush green.

First Stop: Ulaanbaatar
Before heading east, spend a day in Ulaanbaatar. The city is a blend of Soviet-era buildings and modern cafes. Visit the central square, explore local markets, and try traditional Mongolian food like buuz (steamed dumplings) and milk tea. It’s simple, hearty, and perfect for the cold climate.
From Ulaanbaatar, you can take a domestic flight or drive towards the Eastern Steppes region, particularly Khentii Province, which is known for its rolling plains and connection to Genghis Khan’s birthplace.

Living the Nomadic Experience
The highlight of the Eastern Steppes is staying in a traditional ger (also called a yurt). These round, felt-covered tents are homes to Mongolia’s nomadic families. Staying in one is not just accommodation—it’s an experience.

You wake up to golden sunlight filtering through the tent roof. Horses graze nearby. There’s no traffic noise, no honking—just open land and silence that feels healing.
Hosts often welcome guests with warm milk tea and homemade dairy products. You can learn how to ride horses, help herd sheep, or simply sit outside and watch the sky change colors during sunset. It’s simple living, but deeply enriching.
For someone coming from busy Indian cities like Hyderabad or Mumbai, this kind of quiet feels almost unreal.

The Beauty of the Eastern Steppes
The Eastern Steppes are often called the world’s largest intact grassland ecosystem. The land stretches endlessly, sometimes without a single tree in sight. The beauty lies in its emptiness.
Wildlife lovers can spot gazelles, eagles, and migratory birds. Photographers will fall in love with the golden light that spreads across the plains during sunrise and sunset. Every frame looks cinematic.
If you visit during July, you might experience the Naadam Festival, Mongolia’s biggest celebration. Locals compete in traditional sports like wrestling, archery, and horse racing. It’s colorful, energetic, and deeply rooted in their nomadic culture.

What to Pack and Expect
Weather in the steppes can change quickly. Days are warm, but nights can get surprisingly cold, even in summer. Carry layered clothing, comfortable shoes, sunscreen, and basic medicines.
Internet connectivity may be limited in remote areas, so prepare for a digital detox. And honestly, that’s the best part.

Why This Trip Feels Special
Mongolia’s Eastern Steppes aren’t about luxury hotels or shopping streets. They’re about slowing down. About reconnecting with nature. About understanding a way of life that has remained unchanged for centuries.

As an Indian traveler, you may find surprising similarities—the warmth of families, respect for traditions, and deep connection to land and animals.
This journey is not just about visiting a new country. It’s about stepping into a different rhythm of life. One where the sky feels bigger, time feels slower, and you come back home carrying stories that few people around you have experienced.
And trust me, once you stand in those endless grasslands, a part of your heart will always belong to the steppes.

TAGS : mongolia,s eastern steppes: a journey from india to the land of endless skies