To the north are the Altai and Hangayn Nuruu mountain ranges. The Tien Shan range is to the west. The greatest amounts of rainfall occur in the summer.
Underground water is widespread enough to allow the raising of cattle, sheep, goats, and camels.
Agriculture is developed only along the river valleys. Animal life, apart from livestock, includes wild camels and horses, gazelles, and antelopes. The Learning Company, Inc.