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| Photo by Erdenebulgan |
Shar Teeg /Шар Тээг/, located in Altai soum of Gobi-Altai province, is one of Mongolia’s key paleontological zones, lying within the Great Gobi Strictly Protected Area (Zone A). It is situated near Mongolia’s lowest elevation point and holds geological formations from the Precambrian era. Fossils were first discovered in the area in 1989, and since then, Shar Teeg has yielded important paleobiological evidence, including early life forms and marine invertebrates. COORDINATE: N44° 7'15.33" E95°49'22.06" Though it is less known than the Flaming Cliffs of Bayanzag, it adds to Mongolia's global reputation as a fossil-rich land. Mongolia is world-renowned for its dinosaur discoveries, particularly from the Late Cretaceous period. Iconic sites like Bayanzag, Nemegt, Tugrugiin Shiree, and Ukhaa Tolgod have revealed species such as Velociraptor, Protoceratops, Oviraptor, and Tarbosaurus bataar — a close relative of Tyrannosaurus rex. These discoveries have not only shaped the understanding of dinosaur evolution and behavior but have also attracted paleontologists from around the world. Shar Teeg, while more remote and lesser-known, continues to be a vital part of this scientific landscape, offering insight into even older geological and biological eras.
