Uurtiin Tokhoi Cliff
zoom_in Click image to enlarge
Located in Bat-Ölzii Soum, Uvurkhangai Province, within the Orkhon Valley, Uurtiin Tokhoi is a striking natural rock formation and canyon shaped by the Orkhon River. It is considered one of the most scenic parts of the Orkhon Valley Cultural Landscape, a UNESCO World Heritage region.
The site lies about 18 km northeast of Bat-Olzii Soum center, along the route from Ulaan Tsutgalan Waterfall toward Khujirt, where steep cliffs and layered rock formations dominate the landscape. The elevation is approximately 1,630 meters above sea level.
Nearby, there is also a naturally occurring carbonated cold mineral spring, believed to have beneficial effects on internal health conditions.
In earlier times, the place was known as “Khuurtiin Tokhoi”, and several local legends explain its origin. One well-known story tells of soldiers fleeing during a conflict who crossed the rocky riverbed. A sudden flood then swept through the area, and the bodies of those who perished were said to have gathered in this bend—hence the original name “Khuurtiin Tokhoi” (meaning “bend of corpses”). Later, due to the disturbing connotation and frequent accidents in the area, the name was changed to “Uurtiin Tokhoi.”
Travel Tips
Photography
The best photo spot is from the edge of the cliff, capturing the dramatic curve of the Orkhon River below. At sunset, the canyon walls glow in deep golden tones, creating a powerful and cinematic landscape.
Safety Warning
The cliffs are very steep (20–30 meters) and have no protective fencing. Visitors should be extremely careful when walking near the edge, especially when taking photos.
Nearby Attractions
Uurtiin Tokhoi is often visited as part of a larger route including Ulaan Tsutgalan Waterfall, Tovkhon Monastery, and the Khujirt hot springs, making it a great stop on a scenic Orkhon Valley journey.
Explore More
Similar Destinations
Challenging
Jargalant Khairkhan Mountain
location_onХовд аймагJargalant Khairkhan Mountain is a sacred mountain rising 3,796 meters above sea level, located northeast of Manhan Soum in Khovd Province and southeast of Khar-Us Lake, within the Khar-Us Lake Protected Area.
Explore arrow_forward
Moderate
Khar Yamaat Nature Reserve
location_onХэнтий аймаг, Сүхбаатар аймагKhar Yamaat is located in eastern Mongolia, on the border between the southeastern part of Bayan-Ovoo Soum in Khentii Province and the northwestern part of Tumentsogt Soum in Sukhbaatar Province. The highest point in the area is Tumentsogt Mountain, which rises to 1,358 meters above sea level.
Explore arrow_forward
Moderate
Achit Lake
location_onБаян-Өлгий аймаг, Увс аймагAchit Lake is fed by several rivers and streams, including Tsagaan Nuur River, Khatuugiin Gol, Bukh Mörön, and Uliastai River, which originate from the snowfields and glaciers of the Tsengelkhairkhan and Turgen mountain ranges, major branches of the Mongolian Altai Mountains. The lake releases its excess water through a single outlet known as Usan Khooloi River, which flows into the Khovd River.
Explore arrow_forwardReady to Visit Uurtiin Tokhoi Cliff?
Our experts will craft the perfect itinerary tailored to you.