This paper discusses the hydrochemistry and nutrient concentrations of the Orhon River. The observed concentrations of nutrients are compared with the maximum acceptable concentration (MAC) standard for river water quality in Mongolia. The chemical composition is characterized by the dominance of bicarbonate and calcium which constitute more than 60% of the total salt content. Ammonium concentrations (N-NH4) contribute significantly to the nitrogen total. In the most downstream part of the Orhon River a slight increase in nitrate (N-NO3) and phosphate (P-PO43-) concentrations since 1980 has been observed. Based on these trends an annual increase is expected of 0.27 mg l(-1) for N-NO3 and 0.0 15 mg l(-1) for P-PO4-3.