At the zenith of the Mongolian Empire, Kharakhorum was the centre of the world travel, the Silk Road was laid through the country bringing in travelers and traders from all parts of the world. Kharakhorum attracted travelers from Europe: Piano Cairpini in 1246, Wilhelin Rubruck in 1254, and Mareo Polo in 1274.

They all documented their travel and visits to the centre of the Mongolian Empire. During the socialist era the state owned tourist company "Juulchin" was founded. Only after the democratic movement of 1990 private companies got a chance to enter the business of tourism.

Now there are more than 300 registered private tourist companies in the country. Some of the companies are tour operators and some have tourist camps and hotels, and some combine tourism with transport and communication businesses.

Tour operators can offer a usual range of tours to cultural and historical places, fishing and trekking tours, rafting, birdwatching, jeep trips to interesting natural sights, mountain climbing, caving, horseback and camel riding trips.