Highlights
- Visit one of the largest Buddhist monasteries in the country, Gandan Monastery
- Learn about the nomadic way of life and participate in the art of thumb archery
- Climb to the top of the world's tallest equestrian statue of Genghis Khan
- Head to Bogd Khaan's Palace Museum to learn about the country's last monarch
Brief Itinerary
| Day | Highlights | Overnight |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Arrive in Ulaanbaatar, Half-Day Guided City Tour | Ulaanbaatar |
| Day 2 | Transfer to Hustai National Park, Watch a Nomadic Cultural Show | Argalant |
| Day 3 | Transfer to Gorkhi-Terelj National Park, Meet a Nomadic Family | Terelj National Park |
| Day 4 | Explore the National Park, Transfer to Ulaanbaatar | Ulaanbaatar |
| Day 5 | Depart Ulaanbaatar |
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive in Ulaanbaatar, Half-Day Guided City Tour
Welcome to the vibrant capital of Mongolia, Ulaanbaatar! Meet your driver outside Chinggis Khan Airport to transfer to your hotel. After settling in, set off on a guided tour of the city, starting at one of the largest and most important Buddhist monasteries in the country, Gandan Monastery. Admire the 85-foot-tall (26 m) gilded statue of Avalokiteshvara, the Bodhisattva of Compassion, then enter the complex to take in the serene environment. Listen to the rhythmic chant of the praying monks as you stroll through each intricately decorated temple, all adorned with religious artifacts.
Chat with a local specialist who can help organize your trip.
Day 2: Transfer to Hustai National Park, Watch a Nomadic Cultural Show
Leave the city behind this morning as you transfer two hours west to Hustai National Park, nestled in the Khustai Mountains. After leaving your bags in a ger, a traditional Mongolian tent, set off down one of the nearby paths to discover the park's rolling hills, rocky outcrops, and expansive steppes. Look out for the majestic Przewalski's horse, which you can only find in Mongolia. These beautiful creatures are critically endangered, but the park has successfully reintroduced over 300 to the ecosystem to roam freely in their natural habitat.
In the afternoon, return to the ger for lunch, then visit the Mongol Nomadic Cultural Heritage Center in Argalant to learn about the nomadic way of life that has shaped Mongolia for centuries. As soon as you enter, you'll be greeted by an array of colorful costumes and spirited music. Sit down for a nomadic show to watch displays of archery prowess, horseback acrobatics, and traditional wrestling. Immerse yourself in the experience by trying your hand at the ancient art of thumb archery or sampling traditional foods before heading to your hotel in Argalant.
Day 3: Transfer to Gorkhi-Terelj National Park, Meet a Nomadic Family
After breakfast, set off on a three-hour drive to Gorkhi-Terelj National Park to spend the day with a nomadic family of horse breeders. When you arrive, meet the family's prized animals and learn about their day-to-day life. Discover the art of crafting airag, a revered Mongolian drink made with fermented mare's milk, and try your hand at the age-old practice of milking a horse. Learn how to cook traditional dishes, then sit down with the family to enjoy them for lunch. In the afternoon, watch a game of shagai, where players toss sheep bones in the air and catch them on the back of their hands on horseback.
If you're up for it, join the game to fully immerse yourself in the experience. In the afternoon, thank the nomad family for their warm welcome, then head to the Chinggis Khan Statue Complex to see the massive equestrian statue dedicated to the former ruler of the Mongol Empire. Admire the 131-foot (40 m) statue, then climb up to its head for panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Jump back in the car and continue to your camp in the national park for the night, where you can rest and enjoy dinner as a group.
Day 4: Explore the National Park, Transfer to Ulaanbaatar
Spend the morning exploring the national park on a three-hour horseback ride. As your horse trots slowly along the path, look out to the rolling hills, glittering rivers, and distinct granite formations, such as the revered Turtle Rock, resembling a giant turtle gracefully navigating the landscape. Continue to the Ariyabala Meditation Temple, a sanctuary for those seeking spiritual solace and mindfulness surrounded by lush greenery and the soothing sounds of nature. After the journey, set off on a two-hour transfer back to Ulaanbaatar.
After settling in at your hotel, venture out on a guided tour of the city, starting at Bogd Khaan's Palace Museum to learn about the country's last monarch. Wander through the palace's well-preserved chambers to discover the array of artifacts, royal belongings, religious instruments, and intricate Buddhist artwork. If you want to pick up some last-minute souvenirs, visit a Mongolian cashmere store next. Learn how the coveted material is made and browse the array of cashmere scarves, sweaters, blankets, and accessories you can take home to remember your trip.
Continue to Zaisan Memorial Hill, perched on the outskirts of Ulaanbaatar, for panoramic views of the city. Admire the towering monument dedicated to the Soviet soldiers who fought alongside the Mongolian forces during World War II. End the day with a folk performance by the Tumen-Ekh ensemble, one of the most well-known musical groups in the country. Watch the dancers move with grace, depicting stories of nomadic life, heroic tales, and spiritual rituals. Following the performance, enjoy a delicious farewell dinner of traditional Mongolian cuisine, then say goodbye to your guide and return to your hotel.
Day 5: Depart Ulaanbaatar
After just five days in Mongolia, your trip comes to an end this morning. If you have time before your flight, you can explore more of the city on your own, starting at Narantuul Market for some last-minute shopping.
Browse the stalls full of handmade goods, like traditional clothing and intricately crafted jewelry, then continue to the Mongolian National Modern Art Gallery. Admire the gallery's diverse collection of paintings, sculptures, and multimedia installations, all exploring themes deeply rooted in Mongolian culture. Meet your driver back at the hotel to transfer to the airport in time for your flight. Safe travels!
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