Central Mongolia is a region where most visitors begin their adventures. The region has many historical sights and natural wonders including Orkhon Valley, known as the cultural landscape of the Orkhon Valley, has vast meadows on both sides of the Orkhon River with numerous archaeological sites dating back several centuries. Few traces remain of Kharakhorum, the 13th-century capital of the Mongol Empire, but the nearby temple of Erdene Zuu was reputedly built from its ruins. It represents the evolution of nomadic pastoral traditions over 2,000 years and is therefore on the UNESCO World Heritage List. Another important part is Arkhangai Province. Wide rivers teeming with fish, several volcanoes and volcanic lakes, vast forests and meadows where yaks thrive. It also features the stunning Terhiin Tsagaan Nur Lake, the site of several ancient kingdoms.