Ski holidays in Mongolia

Mongolia 

Intrepid skiers have a new destination: Mongolia. A place called Sky Resort. Sky Resort has nine ski runs served by two chairlifts (one of which is just for beginners) and four surface lifts. The lifts and runs are located between 1379 and 1570m, giving a 191m vertical. Visitors can rent skiwear as well as skis, boards and boots.

The runs are 100% covered by snowmaking, installed by Techno Alpin, which is needed because the area is extremely dry and only receives an average of20cm of snow between November and February each winter. However with an average winter temperatures of -20 degrees, it won’t be a problem creating the conditions needed to make snow. The area is located very close to the capitol Ulanbaatar and will operate a golf course in the summer.

The nearest existing resort is believed to be Alsham in the Chinese province of Inner Mongolia (not to be confused with the actual country of Mongolia!) just over the border.

Alsham is regarded as in the top league of ski areas in China, with an FIS racing slope. It is reported to be located in a snow pocket with skiing from the start of November making it one of the country’s most snow sure destinations.

Because of its location on the border of with Mongolia it is marketed for the ’Mongolian experience’ and offers alternative snow fun sports such as football on snow.

The ski resort contains two parts: the West Hill Ski Terrain for ski racing and training and East Hill Terrain for fun. The West Hill Terrain is built in accordance with the standard of international ski racing, suitable for competition and training. This part covers around 5.5 square kilometres with a great many alpine and cross country trails.

But rates are low, at least for foreigners: full-day lift passes for adults start at 16,000 tugrik (about $11, at 1,416 tugrik to the dollar). Equipment rentals are also available.

http://www.mongoliatourism.gov.mn/