Travellers will flock to China and Mongolia to witness a rare solar eclipse this August, it has been predicted.

Astrological tourists will be able to view the cosmic occurrence from areas in China and western Mongolia when the moon passes between the sun and the earth for several minutes on August 1st.

A boom in the tourism industry of the two countries is expected with many holidaymakers keen not to miss out on such an infrequent event.

E.Battulga, director of the Mongolia's tourism department, said: "We are expecting the number of tourists coming to Mongolia will increase this summer to see solar eclipse 2008.

"Many Mongolian tour companies are providing tourists with tour packages including this rare event."

Holidaymakers will be able to learn about and take part in traditional customs associated with the solar eclipse

Dr Dulam, a lecturer at the Mongolian National University, said: "If you pray with Lama Mani during a sun eclipse, the blessings will be multiplied by a billion."

Tourists will be able to see the next solar eclipse on July 22nd 2009 from parts of northern India and central China, it has been reported.

Back to News