Assessment of Recreational Resources for the Development of Parasailing in Large Lakes of Mongolia

Abstract

One of the basic concepts of tourism is the issue of natural conditions and resources. In the case of developing tourism based on any natural resource, it is important to evaluate the possibilities and potential of that resource. On the other hand, Mongolia’s tourism products are built on the same model, and have no differences from each other, and are not competitive. Therefore, there is a necessity to develop new types of adventure travel and special interest travel based on natural resources. In accordance with this need, this research work was carried out in order to determine whether there are natural conditions and resources for the development of parasailing based on the large lakes of Mongolia. Methodologically, a new recreational resource evaluation system was developed based on 7 criterias: the basic natural factors required for the development of parasailing, such as the area of lake, attractiveness, natural rapids, lake water temperature, air temperature, number of clear days, and the level of lake water pollution. By selecting and evaluating the 5 largest lakes in Mongolia with this system, it was found that Buir, Uvs, Khyargas, and Khar-Us lakes have the potential to develop parasailing. It is hoped that the research results will be valuable information for future studies related to the development of parasailing in Mongolia. Those include developing parasailing itinerary and programs, conducting research on competitor, attracting markets, and ensuring safety, etc.