Mongolia is the least densely populated sovereign country in the world. (Image: Getty)
A stunning nation commonly referred to as an “empty country” has hardly anyone around. Mongolia, a beautiful country located in north-central is believed to be 99.7 percent empty, owing to its extremely low population density compared to its expansive landmass.
It is the least densely populated sovereign country in the world, with an average of just 2 people per square kilometre.
This low density is due to its large land area of 1.56 million square kilometres and a relatively small population of about 3.4 million people (as of 2024).
A large portion of Mongolia’s population resides in the capital, Ulaanbaatar, where over 45 percent of the country’s citizens are concentrated.
Traditional nomadic lifestyles mean people often live far apart, with isolated yurts (known as gers) dotting the countryside.
Much of the population is concentrated in the capital city, Ulaanbaatar (Image: Getty)
Its landscape is characterised by vast steppes, deserts such as the Gobi, and mountain ranges. These expansive and untouched natural areas give the impression of “emptiness.”
Many Mongolians still engage in nomadic herding, travelling across the steppes with their livestock, including horses, camels, sheep, goats, and cattle. This way of life further emphasises the sparsely populated nature of the countryside.
However, the sparsely populated country deals with a harsh climate, characterised by extremely cold winters (known as dzuds) and dry conditions, making it difficult in large parts of the country for settled agriculture or urban development.
While the term “empty” may apply to Mongolia’s geography, the country is far from being devoid of culture or life. It’s home to a rich history, including the legacy of Genghis Khan and the Mongol Empire, as well as vibrant traditions, festivals (like Naadam), and a growing modern economy.
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A significant portion of the population continues to practice nomadic herding (Image: Getty)
Mongolia’s open landscapes and pristine nature are a draw for eco-tourism and adventure travellers.
One of the users commented on TripAdvisor forum: “It was a wonderful tour experience in Mongolia! Mongolia is beautiful and I was amazed by the landscape and wildlife along the way.
“The accommodations at the ger camps were comfortable and clean, and the food provided everyday were delicious. The tour activities such as horse and camel riding were fun and enjoyable.”
Another user said: “I had the tour “Overland Explore Mongolia” with a couple of friends, 15 days from May 28 till June 12. It was an amazing experience, everything was organized to perfection, Boggie is such a wonderful person.
“The itinerary was including all the highliths, starting from Ulaanbaatar going down to Gobi and up to Kusgvul Lake and back. I enjoyed the landascapes, the immensity, the animals, the nature.
“The guide Ankhaa was very knowledgeable and humourous, the driver Tzengui was very good, drove safely, he was also a good mechanic and kept the van spotless clean.
“Gher camps were beautiful, very clean, the personnel very friendly, food was also very good, abundant and varied.”