Khustai National Park

Khustai National Park

Khustai National Park, located in the Khustai Mountains of Töv Province, is a remarkable natural area in Mongolia. Spanning an area of 506 km2, the park is a haven for diverse flora and fauna. The Tuul River gracefully flows through the park, adding to its scenic beauty. In 1993, the Mongolian government designated Khustai National Park as a specially protected area, recognizing its ecological significance. This decision came a year after the initiation of the Takhi reintroduction project in the Khustai Nuruu, which aimed to reintroduce the endangered Takhi, also known as Przewalski's Horse, back into their native habitat. The park spreads beyond the Khustai Mountains, encompassing the Khentii Mountains and the western edge of the Mongolian steppe. The park boasts an impressive array of biodiversity. It is home to 459 species of vascular plants, 85 species of lichens, 90 species of mosses, and 33 species of mushrooms. The animal kingdom thrives here as well, with 44 recorded species of mammals. Visitors may encounter majestic creatures such as Altai Wapiti, Mongolian Gazelle, Roe Deer, Wild Boar, Wild Sheep, ibex, Mongolian Marmots, Gray Wolves, Eurasian Lynx, Pallas' Cats, Red Foxes, Corsac Foxes and Eurasian Badgers. With 217 species of birds, including the magnificent Golden Eagle, lammergeyer, Great Bustard, Whooper Swan, Black Stork, Daurian Partridge and Little Owl, Khustai National Park offers a paradise for birdwatching. The park's aquatic ecosystems are also noteworthy. It is home to 16 species of fish, adding to the park's ecological diversity. Additionally, there are two species of amphibians and an impressive 385 species of insects.