Orkhon Valley, Mongolia

Locations include the Orkhon River Valley, Bat-Ulzii, and Khujirt. The Orkhon River leaves the valley lush and green, rich for grazing and leaving an ample supply of freshwater for local inhabitants. The valley's geography is notable for a young, extensive lava flow that completely reshaped the shape of the valley. As the Orkhon River cut through the lava field, it created Orkhon Falls, pictured here.