The Gobi Desert, the largest desert in Asia and the fifth-largest in the world, has been a popular setting for many famous films, TV shows, and books. Its unique landscapes and the air of mysticism that surrounds it have attracted filmmakers and authors alike, making it a must-visit destination for film and literature enthusiasts.
Famous Films Shot in Gobi Desert
The Gobi Desert’s vast expanse, with its stark beauty and otherworldly landscapes, provides a perfect backdrop for a variety of film genres, from action and adventure to science fiction and drama. Here are some of the most notable films shot in the Gobi Desert:
- “Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon” (2000): This internationally acclaimed martial arts film, directed by Ang Lee, features stunning scenes shot in the Gobi Desert. Its breath-taking cinematography showcases the desert’s stark beauty.
- “The Story of the Weeping Camel” (2003): This internationally acclaimed documentary-style film tells the story of a Mongolian nomadic family and their struggle to save a rare white camel calf. The Gobi Desert serves as the film’s backdrop, offering viewers a glimpse into the harsh yet beautiful desert environment.
- “Mongol: The Rise of Genghis Khan” (2007): This historical drama, directed by Sergei Bodrov, depicts the early life of Genghis Khan. Filmed in various locations in Mongolia, including the Gobi Desert, the movie beautifully captures the grandeur and harshness of the Mongolian landscape.
- “Flight of the Phoenix” (2004): This action-adventure film about a group of plane crash survivors in the Gobi Desert, directed by John Moore, utilises the desert’s vast expanses and desolate beauty to heighten the drama and tension.
- “Wolf Totem” (2015): Directed by Jean-Jacques Annaud, this film is set in the Mongolian grasslands bordering the Gobi Desert. It explores the relationship between humans, nature, and animals, with the desert’s wild beauty serving as a constant, looming presence.
TV Shows Set in Gobi Desert
The Gobi Desert has also been featured in numerous TV shows, providing a unique and captivating backdrop that adds an extra layer of intrigue to the narrative.
- “The Amazing Race” (2001-present): This reality game show has had contestants racing through various parts of the Gobi Desert in different seasons. The desert’s challenging environment adds to the thrill and excitement of the race.
- “Survivorman” (2004-2015): In this Canadian-produced television program, survival expert Les Stroud spends a week alone in various remote locations, including the Gobi Desert, demonstrating survival techniques.
- “An Idiot Abroad” (2010-2012): This British travel documentary comedy television series features Karl Pilkington, who travels to various countries, including Mongolia. One episode shows him experiencing the Gobi Desert’s harsh conditions.
Animated Films Set in Gobi Desert
Animation has the power to bring the unique landscapes and stories of the Gobi Desert to life in a way that’s captivating for viewers of all ages. Here are some animated films that feature the Gobi Desert:
- “Kung Fu Panda” (2008): Although not directly set in the Gobi Desert, the landscapes depicted in this popular animated film bear a striking resemblance to the desert’s terrain. The film’s protagonist, Po, embarks on a journey that takes him through landscapes reminiscent of the Gobi’s rocky outcrops and vast sand dunes.
- “Gobi Desert’s Secret” (2019): This Chinese animated feature film tells the story of a group of animals living in the Gobi Desert. The film uses vibrant animation to depict the desert’s unique landscapes and wildlife.
Famous Books Set in Gobi Desert
Literature has the power to transport us to different places and times, and the Gobi Desert, with its unique landscapes and rich history, has been the setting for numerous books. Here are some classic and contemporary works set in the Gobi Desert:
Classic Books:
- “The Desert of Gobi: A Diary of A Journey” by Hermann F. Coudenhove – This travelogue, published in 1921, provides a fascinating account of the author’s journey through the Gobi Desert, depicting its landscapes and the nomadic way of life.
- “Tschiffely’s Ride” by Aimé Félix Tschiffely – This book, published in 1933, recounts the author’s remarkable journey on horseback from Buenos Aires to Washington D.C., crossing the Gobi Desert along the way.
- “News from Tartary” by Peter Fleming – Published in 1936, this travel literature classic describes the author’s journey from Beijing, China to Kashmir, India, passing through the Gobi Desert.
Contemporary Books:
- “Gobi: A Little Dog with a Big Heart” by Dion Leonard – This heartwarming tale, published in 2017, tells the true story of a stray dog that befriends an ultramarathon runner in the Gobi Desert.
- “Walking the Gobi” by Helen Thayer – Published in 2007, this book recounts the author’s adventurous journey of walking across the Gobi Desert at the age of 63.
- “The Gobi Desert” by Mildred Cable and Francesca French – This book, published in 2011, provides a detailed account of the authors’ travel and missionary work in the Gobi Desert over a period of 13 years.
Exploring Gobi Desert Filming Locations – Where to Go
Exploring the Gobi Desert allows you to step into the scenes of your favorite films, TV shows, and books, offering a unique and immersive travel experience.
- Flaming Cliffs (Bayanzag) – Known for their red-orange color, these cliffs in the Gobi Desert were featured in “The Story of the Weeping Camel.” They’re also an important paleontological site, where many dinosaur fossils have been found.
- Khongoryn Els Sand Dunes – These impressive dunes, known as the “singing sands,” were featured in “Flight of the Phoenix.” Climbing to the top offers a breathtaking view of the desert.
- Yol Valley (Eagle Valley) – This valley, with its ice field and dramatic rocky cliffs, is a great place to experience the Gobi Desert’s diverse landscapes.
- Gurvansaikhan National Park – Featured in “Wolf Totem,” this national park is home to many of the Gobi Desert’s unique wildlife species.
- Bactrian Camel Herders – Visiting a local family of camel herders provides a glimpse into the nomadic lifestyle depicted in “The Story of the Weeping Camel.”
Where to Sleep in Gobi Desert
The Gobi Desert offers a range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly ger camps to luxury lodges.
Budget:
- Gobi Mirage Ger Camp – This affordable camp offers traditional Mongolian gers (tents) and a unique opportunity to experience the nomadic lifestyle.
- Gobi Erdene Ger Camp – Another budget-friendly option, this camp offers basic facilities in a serene desert setting.
- Gobi Tour Ger Camp – This camp offers comfortable gers and organized tours to explore the desert.
Luxury:
- Three Camel Lodge – This luxury lodge offers comfortable gers with private bathrooms and a range of amenities. It’s also committed to sustainable and responsible tourism practices.
- Gobi Discovery Ger Camp – This luxury camp offers well-appointed gers, excellent dining, and a range of organized activities.
- Gobi Wilderness Lodge – This high-end lodge offers comfortable accommodation, delicious cuisine, and guided tours to the desert’s attractions.
Where to Eat in Gobi Desert
Due to its remote location, dining options in the Gobi Desert are limited but unique.
Budget:
- Local Ger Camps – Most ger camps serve traditional Mongolian meals, which are included in the accommodation cost. These meals typically consist of hearty meat and dairy dishes.
- Packaged Meals – It’s a good idea to bring packaged meals and snacks for your desert exploration days as food outlets are scarce.
- Local Family Visit – If you get a chance to visit a local nomadic family, you will likely be offered traditional Mongolian food and tea.
Luxury:
- Three Camel Lodge – The lodge’s restaurant serves a variety of Mongolian and international dishes, prepared with organic, locally sourced ingredients.
- Gobi Discovery Ger Camp – Their restaurant offers a fine dining experience in the desert, serving a variety of dishes that cater to different dietary needs.
- Gobi Wilderness Lodge – The lodge’s restaurant serves a mix of Mongolian and Western dishes, prepared with fresh, local ingredients.
Detailed Itinerary Day by Day
Day 1: Arrival and Khongoryn Els Sand Dunes
Arrive at Dalanzadgad Airport and transfer to your chosen accommodation. After settling in, head to the Khongoryn Els Sand Dunes. Enjoy a camel ride and watch a mesmerizing sunset over the dunes.
Day 2: Flaming Cliffs (Bayanzag) and Gurvansaikhan National Park
Start your day with a visit to the Flaming Cliffs, a paleontological site and a filming location for “The Story of the Weeping Camel.” In the afternoon, visit Gurvansaikhan National Park to see the Gobi Desert’s unique wildlife.
Day 3: Yol Valley and Bactrian Camel Herders
Visit the Yol Valley in the morning to see its ice field and dramatic rocky cliffs. In the afternoon, visit a local family of Bactrian camel herders to experience the nomadic lifestyle.
Day 4: Departure
After breakfast, transfer to Dalanzadgad Airport for your departure.
Local Legends and Curiosities
The Gobi Desert is steeped in history and folklore. One well-known legend is the tale of the Mongolian Death Worm, a cryptid believed to inhabit the desert. This creature, said to be up to two meters long, is feared for its supposed ability to spew acid and emit electricity.
Hidden Gems in Gobi Desert
- Tsagaan Suvarga (White Stupa) – This stunning cliff formation, shaped and colored by centuries of wind and rain erosion, is a hidden gem worth visiting.
- Zorgol Khairkhan Mountain – This sacred mountain in the Gobi Desert is considered a spiritual place by locals.
- Tugrugiin Shiree – This site, where the famous ‘Fighting Dinosaurs’ fossil was found, is a must-visit for paleontology enthusiasts.
What to Pack for a Trip to Gobi Desert
For a trip to the Gobi Desert, pack essentials like a hat, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a reusable water bottle to protect against the sun. Lightweight, breathable clothing is recommended for the hot days, while a warm jacket is needed for the cold desert nights. Don’t forget comfortable walking shoes for exploring the desert.
How to Dress
The Gobi Desert experiences extreme temperature variations between day and night. Dressing in layers is recommended. During the day, wear light, breathable clothing to protect against the sun. In the evenings, when temperatures drop, add layers to stay warm.
Transportation Tips
The best way to explore the Gobi Desert’s filming locations is by joining a guided tour. This ensures safe and reliable transportation across the desert’s challenging terrain. Alternatively, you can hire a private driver with a 4×4 vehicle.
Travel Documents Needed
Ensure you have a valid passport. Visitors from most countries require a tourist visa to enter Mongolia. Check the visa requirements for your country before your trip.
Conclusion
A trip to the Gobi Desert offers an unforgettable journey through stunning landscapes that have inspired countless filmmakers, writers, and artists. Whether you’re a film buff, a literature enthusiast, or simply an adventurous traveler, exploring the famous films, TV shows, and books set in the Gobi Desert is a unique way to experience this extraordinary destination. So pack your bags, and let the Gobi Desert’s cinematic landscapes transport you into the heart of your favorite narratives.
