In 2022, a group of adventurous American travelers with our families made our way to Mongolia during its famously harsh and bitter winter for Khuvsgul Lake Ice Festival Mongolia tour. While many shy away from traveling in such cold conditions, the breathtaking landscapes of Khuvsgul Province proved impossible to resist. The northern region, blanketed in deep snow and surrounded by rugged mountains, offered an unforgettable winter adventure.
At the heart of their journey was Khuvsgul Lake, Mongolia’s crown jewel and a stunning freshwater lake frozen into crystal-clear ice. Here, the travelers joined the Ice Festival, experiencing a vibrant celebration unlike any other. With an array of fun and entertaining activities on the ice and throughout the festival area, it was easy to see why hundreds of locals flock to this magical spot every winter — and why we were completely captivated by the experience.
Gallery 1. Travelling to North Mongolia
Where We Went?
Our Khuvsgul Lake Ice Festival Mongolia journey began aboard the famous Trans-Siberian Railway, crossing into Mongolia overnight and stopping halfway at Erdenet, a bustling mining town. From there, they drove six hours north to Murun, the gateway to the northern wilderness. The final destination was the crown jewel of the region, Khuvsgul Lake, a frozen freshwater wonder that became the heart of their Ice Festival adventure.
Arriving Khatgal Town
After crossing into Mongolia overnight on the famous Trans-Siberian Railway departing Ulaanbaatar at 20:45 and arriving at Erdenet town at 7:00 the next morning. From Erdenet, they transferred to vehicles and drove six hours north to Murun town. The adventure continued with a 1.5-hour drive to Khatgal town, located on the southern shore of the frozen Khuvsgul Lake. From Khatgal, the travelers experienced the thrill of driving across the ice to reach their ger camp, Toilogt Camp, immersing themselves immediately in the festival atmosphere.
At the town, the travelers joined locals in a variety of exciting activities on the sparkling ice, from games and races to cultural performances. They marveled at the deep snow, the surrounding mountains, and the unique cultural atmosphere that makes this festival so special.
Immersed in the Ice Festival
The moment we arrived, the energy of the festival pulled us in. Locals from all over northern Mongolia were gathering — wrapped in colorful deels, riding sleds, chatting, laughing, trading, celebrating. It felt like stepping into a living winter carnival.
Everywhere we turned, something was happening:
- Skiing competitions cutting across the ice
- Fast-paced small sized Ice Hockey matches
- Ice Archery, where archers fired arrows across the frozen lake
- “Ice colliding” games, similar to curling
- A long, smooth ice slide where kids and adults zipped across
- A lively concert echoing across the open ice
- A small winter market selling smoked fish, local snacks, handmade crafts, and warm souvenirs
But the most exciting — the activity that brought everyone running — was the horse sledding and the horse sled races. The sound of runners scraping ice, horses snorting in the cold air, crowds cheering… it was impossible not to get caught up in the excitement.
We met locals everywhere — herders proud to show their traditions, families welcoming us with warmth, children eager to race us on the ice. It truly felt like joining a community celebration, not just watching an event.
Festival Details
- Where: Northern Mongolia, Khatgal town, Khuvsgul Lake
- When: 1–4 March 2023
- How to get there: Fly to Murun town, then drive 2 hours to Khatgal or take the overnight train from Ulaanbaatar city to Erdenet town and drive 6 hours to Murun town. then drive 2 hours to Khatgal town
- Where to sleep:
- Toilogt Camp
- MS Guest House
- Art 88 Camp
- Leona Resort Camp
- Plus guest gers & guest houses available during festival days.
- Food & Coffee: The New Root Café in Khatgal — great coffee and warm, quick meals.
- Weather:
- Daytime: –5°C to –10°C (23°F to 14°F)
- Nights: –15°C (5°F)
Cold enough for a festival on thick, crystal-clear ice!
Here is a small movie about Ice Festival 2022
After wrapping up our Khuvsgul Lake Ice Festival Mongolia journey in the countryside, we boarded a local flight back to Ulaanbaatar — a quick trip of just over an hour — returning to the city with great memories and an easy finish to the tour
Recommended Organizer
For those who want to experience this unforgettable winter celebration, Nomadic Trails has many years of experience running Mongolia winter tours.
Contact Mr.Tulga at:
tulga@nomadictrails.com or 
WhatsApp at +97699040894.
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