From Hovd Travel in Mongolia
Jargalant Orgil Herders' Community Group
The Jargalant Orgil herder community was established in February 2005 and consists of 76 members from 28 families. The goal of the community is to be self-developed for the benefit of both the community members and the beautiful region the group calls home. The community voluntarily took responsibility for the conservation of Rashaantyn Am Valley of Jargalant Khairkhan Mountain, part of Khar Us Nuur National Park. The area supports critical habitats for such endangered species as Snow Leopards and Ibex.
In addition to its conservation activities, the community group runs an eco-tourism business and a traditional handicrafts production company. Within Khar Us Nuur National Park the community owns and operates ger camps at Bayan Khairkhan and the Rashaantyn Am Valley. Several years ago, trainings on wool processing technologies were provided to community members to increase their livelihood, and the community now has over 5 years of experience making felt products (their trademark felt matt with Snow Leopard tracks has become a famous brand product in western Mongolia). These products are chemical-free and produced with environmentally sound and healthy production technologies.
The services offered by the community are accomodation in their ger camps, horse and camel riding, a traditional meal of Khorkhog, boating on Khar Us Lake, displays of throat singing and national long folk songs, as well as local guide services. For pricing information and other details call +(976) 9943 8855, or +(976) 8843 0880, or +(976) 01432-24100. D. Baigalmaa (World Wildlife Fund, Hovd).
