The ancient capital city of Genghis Khan, or Chinggis Khaan as we call him locally, is not to be missed.

When visiting, don't expect a major city and glorious former capital, this city has been targeted, burned, and destroyed many times over since the days of Chinggis Khaan. Small reminders of this former city remain, and Erdene Zuu Monastery is one extraordinary example of that. The monastery is constructed from the rubble of the former city. It's the only thing that remains of this historically important epicenter of the Great Mongol Empire and the Silk Road.

Devote at least one day to discovering what Kharkhorin has to offer. Besides Erdene Zuu Monastery, where lamas and monks still actively practice, don't miss the Kharkhorin Museum and the Mongolian Calligraphy & Art Center, all within walking distance of each other.