The Dark Blue Pearl of Mongolia, Khövsgöl Nuur (Lake Khövsgöl), is protected as a national park and is sacred to Mongolians who call it Dalai Ej, the Mother Sea. The area surrounding the lake is home to over 60 species of mammals, including argali, ibex, wolverine, Siberian moose, reindeer, musk deer, wolf, brown bear, and sable. The map at right outlines the route to be taken by the team from east to west- Starting at Chandmani-Öndör, north to Bulnai Hot Springs, over the ridge to the lake, and finally south along the eastern shore to the town of Khatgal to resupply and possibly take a shower with hot water. It may be possible to hire a boat on the eastern shore for the trip to Khatgal, providing an additional 2 days to explore the area.

Images of this area from the web