The Highlights of Central Mongolia Tour

Duration: 7 days / 6 nights
Activity level: Easy
Tour months: Mid May- Late September (not available on 06-18 July because of the Naadam festival).

Tour highlights:
• World’s tallest equestrian Statue – Giant Genghis Statue
• Authentic cultural experience with real nomadic family
• Mongolian traditional ger stay under starry sky
• See the world`s last remaining wild horse species in their natural habitat

This 7-day tour includes highlights of Central Mongolia such as Karakorum - the ancient capital of Mongolian Empire and Erdene Zuu - the first and one of the most beautiful Buddhist monasteries in Mongolia, Elsen Tasarkhai sand dunes and Hustai national park which is known as the home to the wild Przewalski horse Takhi.

Day 1: Arrival in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia
Arrive in Ulaanbaatar, meet at the airport after custom formalities and transfer to the hotel (normal check in time applies, 2 pm. If early check in needed, there will be extra cost). The remainder of the day is for you to get over jet lag and take a good rest before your wonderful journey across Mongolia. Welcome dinner in a Mongolian restaurant.

Accommodation: Holiday Inn Ulaanbaatar hotel**** or similar D 1 hr drive

Day 2: Bayan Gobi Sand Dunes
In the early morning, we will drive to Elsen Tasarkhai (Bayan Gobi) and Khugnu Khan nature reserve where the gorgeous rocky mountain and mini version of sand dunes are. Upon arrival, we will visit to a camel breeder family which is a great way to learn more about nomadic lifestyle and people of Mongolia. Optional camel riding arount the nature reserve, Subsequently, we visit the Erdene Khamba Khiid Buddhist surviving temple from the Great Repression in 1930s in Khugnu Khan Nature Reserve Park which will give you a great view of surroundings. Overnight at the ger camp.

Accommodation: Hoyor zagal ger camp or similar (standard ger or en-suite ger B+L+D
4-5 hr drive)

Day 3: Ancient capital Karakorum town
After breakfast, we will drive to Karakorum, the ancient capital city of Mongolia. Enjoy visit to legendary Erdene-Zuu monastery and its surroundings. Transfer to a ger camp by lunch time. In the afternoon, we will visit to Karakorum Museum which gives good explanation about ancient capital Karakorum city and its findings. In the evening, we will stop at King’s monument for the breath-taking view of Orkhon valley and river. Overnight at the ger camp.

Accommodation: Munkh Tenger ger camp or similar (standard ger or en-suite ger)
B+L+D 1-2 hr drive

Day 4: Hustai National Park
Today, we will drive towards Ulaanbaatar with a stop at Hustai National Park. This is one of the beautiful parks in Mongolia, where the Takhi wild horses graze peacefully with other wild animals. Arrive in Mongol Nomadic camp and enjoy watching nomadic show. We will take part in the everyday life of a traditional Mongolian family. Witness the breeding of five kinds of livestock and their travel from one place to another using the ox, yak, camel, and horse carts. Then we head into the Hustai national park to spot the wild horse known as Takhi (Equus Przewalski) and other wildlife. Enjoy hiking in the national park. Overnight at the ger camp.

Accommodation: Hustai ger camp or similar (standard ger or en-suite ger) B+L+D 4-5 hr drive

Day 5: Terelj National Park
This morning, you will drive to Terelj National Park, one of the famous parks in the Mongolia. On the way, we will stop at Giant Chinggis Statue complex, the tallest equestrian statue in the world. Arrive at a ger camp by lunch. In the afternoon, we will visit to Turtle shaped rock and Meditation temple. Overnight at the ger camp.

Accommodation: Juulchin Bayalag ger camp or similar (standard ger or en-suite ger) B+L+D 3-4 hr drive

Day 6: Ulaanbaatar
After breakfast, we drive to Ulaanbaatar and start the city tour. You visit the Genghis Khan monument on the square and the National Museum, which has a number of fascinating displays of traditional Mongolian clothing and weaponry, as well as exhibits charting the course of Genghis Khan's empire-building. Lunch in a Mongolian restaurant. Afterwards, visit to the Bogd Khan’s Palace Museum – the residence of the last king of Mongolia. Optional souvenir and cashmere shopping if you wish. Enjoy traditional folklore concert from magical Tumen Ekh ensemble. You will be transferred to the hotel after farewell dinner.

Accommodation: Holiday Inn Ulaanbaatar hotel**** or similar B+L+D 2-3 hr drive 3-4 hr excursion

Day 7: Departure from Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia
You are transferred to the airport/train station after breakfast. End of service.

Accommodation: B – 1hr drive

Attraction Info

Elsen Tasarkhai, aka Mongol Els
Elsen Tasarkhai is located on the border of 3 provinces, namely Tuv, Uvurkhangai and Bulgan provinces and stretches over 80 km long territory. The dune is divided by the main road into Mongol Els on the south of the road and Khugnu Tarniin Els on the north side. Due to its location in Central Mongolia, the dunes contrast with green steppes and Rocky Mountains in the background which makes it one of the most beautiful destinations in central Mongolia. The proximity to the capital Ulaanbaatar also makes it among the most visited sites. A state protected national park Khugnu Tarna is also located in the area where one can visit the Erdenekhamba monastery.

The Ancient Capital Karakorum
The ancient capital of Mongolia was established by Genghis Khan in 1220 in the Orkhon valley. For 140 years Kharkhorin served as the capital of the United Mongol tribes until it was destroyed by the Chinese troops in 1391. The remains of the capital that stood at the crossroads of the Silk Road are extensive underground archaeological assets and two granite turtles that once stood at the main gate to the city. Four of these turtle sculptures used to mark the boundaries of ancient Kharkhorin, acting as protectors of the city (turtles are considered symbols of eternity).

Erdene Zuu monastery
In 1586, Erdene Zuu, the first Buddhist monastery in Mongolia was built on the ruins of the 13th century capital. Vast walls of 400 m in length with 108 stupas surrounding the monastery are the symbol of Karakorum. Time and history were not merciful to Erdene Zuu monastery but it still carries the traces of its former glory and provides a great insight into the rich religious and cultural past of Mongolia.

Hustai National park
The Mongolian Government declared Hustai National Park as a Specially Protected Area in 1993, one year after the initiation of the reintroduction project of the Takhi to the Hustain Nuruu.

Giant Chinggis Equestrian Statue
Tsonjin boldog in total is 40m high from surface erected at about 10 m high foundation and surrounded by columns. The statue, Chinggis riding his horse, is made by 250 tonnage steel. It is largest horse-riding statue in the World. Far sighted Chinggis Khaan holds a golden whip in his right hand. The building consisted of 36 supporting columns, symbolizes 36 kings who are direct lineage of Chinggis Khaan.

Gandan Monastery
The first temple of Gandantegchinleng Monastery was established in 1835 by the Fifth Jebtsundamba, the highest reincarnated lama of Mongolia. In the following years temples for daily service, veneration of Avalokiteshvara and colleges of Buddhist philosophy, medicine, astrology and tantric ritual were established. In 1938, Gandan Monastery was closed, but reopened in 1944 as the only functioning monastery during the socialist regime. After the democratic change took place in 1990 Buddhism regained its full right of worship. Gandan Monastery has, as being the Centre of Mongolian Buddhists, been striving to propagate peaceful teaching of Lord Buddha among family and society.

Tour Price
• All prices displayed are subject to availability and can be withdrawn or varied without notice.
• Prices are guaranteed once booking is confirmed by us and paid in full by the due date.
• Depending on your needs and group size (individual, couple, family, group, etc.) we will provide the final pricing for your tour.

Inclusions:
• Sightseeing and entrance fees according to the itinerary
• Full-time service from your English-speaking local tour guide
• Private transfers (Comfortable vehicle with AC + Experienced driver)
• Airport transfers
• Twin/double share at centrally located 4* hotel – 2 nights
• Twin/double share at standard tourist ger camps (with shared public Western style bathroom) - 4 nights
• Meals as listed (B-breakfast, L-lunch, D-dinner)
• 0.5 l x 3 bottled water per day
• Visa support invitation letter where applicable

Exclusions:
• International Airfare/train tickets + Tax
• Travel insurance & Visa fees
• Items of a personal nature such as laundry, drinks, camera or video fees at any sites
• Optional activities: camel riding, horse riding, archery, etc.
• Tips for your guide and driver (discretionary).

Please refer to our Standard Booking Conditions for booking terms and conditions.