Uushigiin Uvur Deer Stones – Mongolia’s Ancient Reindeer Carved Monuments

A sacred archaeological wonder dating back more than 3,000 years Located near Mörön in northern Mongolia, Uushigiin Uvur is home to one of the most impressive and well-preserved collections of Deer Stones (Buган хөшөө) in the world. These mysterious standing stones, carved during the Bronze Age (1000–700 BCE), offer a rare window into the spiritual life, rituals, and artistic traditions of Mongolia’s ancient nomadic cultures. For travelers fascinated by history, archaeology, and ancient symbolism, Uushigiin Uvur is a must-see destination.

🌟 Why Uushigiin Uvur Is Special

Among the many deer stone sites in Mongolia, Uushigiin Uvur is considered the best preserved and most visually stunning.

Highlights of the site:

• A full row of 14 stone monuments
• All stones facing east toward the rising sun
• Beautifully carved deer with curved antlers
• One of the most complete Bronze Age ritual complexes
• Surrounded by mountains and peaceful open fields

The alignment of the stones suggests that the site had religious or astronomical significance.

🦌 Symbolism of the Flying Deer

The beautifully carved deer—often shown flying upward—are believed to symbolize:

• The soul’s journey to the afterlife
• Transformation and rebirth
• Shamanic spiritual travel
• The sacred animal of ancient nomads

The flowing antlers resemble clouds or flames, suggesting a connection between earth and sky.

🧭 What to See at Uushigiin Uvur

✔ The 14 Deer Stones

Each stone contains different carvings, details, and symbols.

✔ Khirigsuur Burial Mounds

Large stone mounds believed to be ancient noble graves.

✔ Panoramic Views

Rolling hills and wide-open landscape ideal for photography.

✔ Interpretation Panels

Some areas include explanations of the carvings and archaeology.

📸 Why Photographers Love This Site

• Clean background with mountains and sky
• Early morning and sunset light is perfect
• Shadows enhance the carvings
• Very few tourists → peaceful atmosphere

Drone views (if allowed) show the perfect alignment of the stones.

🗺 How to Get There

Uushigiin Uvur is located:

• 20 km west of Mörön city
• About 700 km from Ulaanbaatar

Transport Options:

• Domestic flight Ulaanbaatar → Mörön
• Private car to the site (30–40 minutes from Mörön)
• Guided tours that combine Lake Khövsgöl + Deer Stones

Road conditions are good and the site is easily accessible.

🏕 Nearby Attractions

Travelers often visit Uushigiin Uvur together with:

• Lake Khövsgöl
• Darkhan Mountain area
• Mörön city cultural sites
• Tsaatan reindeer herders (farther north)

It is a perfect part of a northern Mongolia itinerary.

💡 Best Time to Visit

June – September

• Warm weather
• Clear skies for photography
• Easy access roads

Spring and autumn are colder but still beautiful.

🌟 Why Uushigiin Uvur Belongs on Your Mongolia Itinerary

✔ Mongolia’s most beautiful deer stone complex
✔ 3,000+ years of ancient art and spiritual history
✔ Peaceful, uncrowded, and atmospheric
✔ Perfect for archaeology lovers and photographers
✔ Easy to visit from Mörön or Lake Khövsgöl

Uushigiin Uvur is a place where ancient Mongolia comes alive—through elegant carvings, sacred symbols, and the enduring spirit of the nomads who lived thousands of years ago.