What is kharkhiraa?

Kharkhiraa is a mountain located in western Mongolia, in the Khovd Province. It is part of the Mongol Altai Mountains and stands at an elevation of 4,037 meters (13,245 ft) above sea level. The mountain is known for its rugged terrain and is popular among rock climbers and hikers. The area around Kharkhiraa is remote and largely uninhabited, with few settlements and nomadic herders of the Altai Kazakh ethnic group. The mountain is also the source of several rivers and streams that provide water for the local communities. The Kharkhiraa Strictly Protected Area was established in 2000 to conserve the unique flora and fauna of the region, including endangered species such as the snow leopard and Siberian ibex.