The White Stupa, or Tsagaan Suvarga as it’s known in Mongolian, is a stunning natural formation located in the Ulziit district of Dundgovi Province, south Mongolia. This unique landscape is characterized by its towering white cliffs, which have been sculpted by wind and water erosion over millions of years. The White Stupa stretches for over 400 meters (1,312 feet) and reaches heights of up to 60 meters (197 feet), creating a breathtaking sight that seems to defy the surrounding Gobi Desert landscape.
Geographically, the White Stupa is situated approximately 430 kilometers (267 miles) southeast of Ulaanbaatar, making it a popular destination for those seeking to explore the natural wonders of Mongolia’s vast desert regions.
The White Stupa is home to a unique ecosystem, with rare plant species such as the Gobi onion and the Mongolian almond growing in the area. Additionally, the site has been used as a location for several international films, including the 2005 South Korean movie “The Warrior,” which showcases the stunning beauty of the White Stupa and its surrounding landscape.
The White Stupa, located in the heart of the Gobi Desert, experiences a harsh continental climate with extreme temperature variations. Summers are hot and dry, with temperatures often reaching 40°C (104°F), while winters are bitterly cold, with temperatures dropping as low as -30°C (-22°F). Despite the challenging climate, the area surrounding the White Stupa supports a surprising array of desert-adapted fauna. Visitors may spot rare bird species like the Mongolian ground jay or the Saxaul sparrow, as well as reptiles such as the toad-headed agama and the central Asian viper.
The hardy plants that thrive here, such as the saxaul tree and the Mongolian onion, provide sustenance for the wildlife and add to the unique beauty of this remarkable landscape.
