Essence of Mongolia
OVERVIEW
An activity-packed journey into Central Mongolia, an area of diverse landscapes and the nomadic heartland of the country. See the Khogno Khan Mountain, and the dunes at Elsen Tasarkhai before venturing to the Hustai National Park for the wild Takhi horses and a plethora of wildlife. This condensed trip is a great introduction to the rich diversity of Mongolia’s culture and landscapes, with authentic homestays in guest gers next to local nomadic families. Spend time with your hosts and also use these fabulous wilderness locations as a base to explore the surrounding area on foot, by horse, and by vehicle. You will experience a range of cultural traditions, cookery, ankle-bone games, and herding livestock, which may all feature at some stage along your way.
Culture 
Adventure & Nature 
Day 1 : Gandan Monastery – Gurvanbulag – Ger homestay – Horse ride
Your service team will pick you up from your location after that you have breakfast at 08:30 am, then board the vehicle with your guide and stop off at Gandan Monastery - enter the temples, including that of the Megjid Janraisig with its huge golden Buddha statue. Afterwards, head west to the northern part of Gobi. On the way, you will stop briefly to visit the ruins of Kidan /Khar Bukh/, interesting remains of an ancient fort used by nomadic tribes dating back to the 10th century. Then it's onto Gurvanbulag, where you will be staying at a guest ger alongside a nomadic family.
Enter the ger and experience the hospitality and traditional nomadic way of life - you can help make and drink milk tea, and try homemade produce such as yoghurt and dried curds. In the afternoon you will ride a horse for an hour to the surrounding hills, and visit the dunes nearby. In the evening enjoy a home-cooked dinner.
- Travel details: 4hr/280km to Gurvanbulag
- Accommodation: Guest ger next to a nomadic family
- Meals included: Lunch; Dinner
Day 2 : Khogno Khan – Uvgun Temple – Elsen Tasarkhai dunes – Camel riding
Today you travel to the nature reserve of Khogno Khan, where you can explore the lower temple complex of Uvgun Khiid, see the reconstructed temples, and prayer
wheel and look around the ruins. Then we recommend taking an hour's hike up to the older ruined temple complex in the hills. Head back down to the valley floor, and onto the sand dunes at Elsen Tasarkhai, a 30-minute drive away. Tonight you will stay alongside a family of camel herders - settle into your gers and head off on a Bactrian ride across the dunes for an hour, then enjoy aMongolian tours home-cooked dinner.
- Travel details: 1-2hr/60km Khogno Khan; 30min/20km to Elsen Tasarkhai
- Accommodation: Guest ger next to a nomadic family
- Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner
Day 3 : Hustai National Park – Wild 'TAKHI' horse - Hiking
After a leisurely breakfast, journey back east to Hustai. You should arrive at your ger camp in time for lunch. The camp is located at the entrance to the Hustai National Park.
Afterwards, drive from your camp to see the Takhi - this is the time when they gather to drink at streams so you have a better chance of seeing them up close areas. In the late afternoon return to the vehicle and drive back to Ulaanbaatar, where you will be dropped at a location of your choice.
- Travel details: 3-4hr/250km drive to Hustai National Park; 2h/110km to Ulaanbaatar
- Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch
Our services include:
- All activities described in the itinerary
- Twin Ger stay (2 nights) in the countryside.
- English-speaking guide service, local guides and pack animals
- Bottled water
- Entrance fees to Protected Areas
- All transfers by 4WD Japan/Korean minivan in the countryside.
- Meals of breakfast, lunch and dinner as mentioned per day itinerary.
Our services do not include:
- International transportation to and from Mongolia
- Travel insurance
- Snacks and alcoholic drinks,
- Sleeping bag
- Tips and gratuities
- Laundry and items of a personal nature
Mongolia, known as the "Land of the Eternal Blue Sky," is a vast and sparsely populated country in East Asia, bordered by Russia to the north and China to the south. With its rugged landscapes, rich nomadic culture, and deep historical roots, Mongolia offers a unique and adventurous travel experience.
Getting There :
By Air: Chinggis Khaan International Airport (ULN) in Ulaanbaatar is the main gateway. Major airlines such as MIAT Mongolian Airlines, Korean Air, and Aeroflot offer flights from various international destinations.
By Train: The Trans-Mongolian Railway connects Ulaanbaatar with Moscow and Beijing, providing a scenic and adventurous route into the country.
Accommodation :
Luxury: Shangri-La Hotel Ulaanbaatar, Blue Sky Hotel & Tower
Mid-Range: Ramada Ulaanbaatar Citycenter, Kempinski Hotel Khan Palace
Budget: Danista Nomads Hostel, Sunpath Mongolia Hostel
Traditional Ger Camps: Experience nomadic life in ger camps such as Gorkhi-Terelj National Park, Hustai National Park, and the Gobi Desert.
Top Attractions :
Ulaanbaatar: The capital city, combining modern and traditional elements, is home to the Gandan Monastery, Sukhbaatar Square, and the National Museum of Mongolia.
Gobi Desert: Famous for its vast sand dunes, such as Khongoryn Els, the Flaming Cliffs (Bayanzag), and the Yolyn Am ice canyon.
Lake Khövsgöl: Often called the "Blue Pearl of Mongolia," this stunning alpine lake is ideal for boating, fishing, and hiking.
Orkhon Valley: A UNESCO World Heritage site, this region is rich in historical and cultural sites, including ancient ruins and beautiful waterfalls.
Terelj National Park: Known for its stunning rock formations, lush meadows, and opportunities for horseback riding and hiking.
Karakorum: The ancient capital of the Mongol Empire, featuring the Erdene Zuu Monastery, the oldest surviving Buddhist monastery in Mongolia.
Tsagaan Suvarga (White Stupa): Spectacular limestone formations that resemble a stupa, located in the middle Gobi.
Activities :
Horseback Riding: Explore the vast steppes and experience nomadic life on horseback.
Hiking and Trekking: Numerous trails in the Altai Mountains, Khangai Mountains, and other regions offer breathtaking views and challenging adventures.
Camel Trekking: Experience the Gobi Desert on a camel, guided by local herders.
Nomadic Culture: Stay with nomadic families, learn about their way of life, and participate in traditional activities like herding and milking livestock.
Festivals: Attend the Naadam Festival in July, featuring traditional sports such as wrestling, horse racing, and archery.
Dining :
Traditional Mongolian Cuisine: Try dishes like buuz (steamed dumplings), khuushuur (fried meat pies), and khorkhog (meat cooked with hot stones).
Local Restaurants: Experience Mongolian hospitality at places like Modern Nomads, BD's Mongolian Barbeque, and Hazara Indian Restaurant in Ulaanbaatar.
Ger Camps: Many ger camps offer traditional meals and a chance to try homemade dairy products like airag (fermented mare's milk).
Practical Information :
Language: Mongolian, with some English spoken in tourist areas.
Currency: Mongolian Tögrög (MNT)
Best Time to Visit: Late spring to early autumn (May to September) for pleasant weather and access to remote areas.
Local Transport: Domestic flights, buses, and shared vans (mikrs). Renting a 4x4 vehicle with a driver is common for exploring the countryside.
Tips :
Prepare for Weather: Mongolia’s weather can be unpredictable. Bring layers, including a warm jacket, hat, and gloves.
Respect Local Customs: When visiting nomadic families, observe local customs and traditions. Always ask permission before taking photos.
Health Precautions: Bring any necessary medications, as pharmacies may be limited in remote areas. Drink bottled or boiled water.
Connectivity: Internet access may be limited outside Ulaanbaatar. Consider purchasing a local SIM card for mobile data.
Mongolia’s blend of dramatic landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture makes it an extraordinary destination for travelers seeking a unique and immersive experience. Whether you’re exploring the vast steppes, delving into the history of the Mongol Empire, or experiencing the warmth of nomadic hospitality, Mongolia promises an unforgettable adventure.
Essence of Mongolia
Reference #: WTP0761
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An activity-packed journey into Central Mongolia, an area of diverse landscapes and the nomadic heartland of the country. See the Khogno Khan Mountain, and the dunes at Elsen Tasarkhai before venturing to the Hustai National Park for the wild Takhi horses and a plethora of wildlife. This condensed trip is a great introduction to the rich diversity of Mongolia’s culture and landscapes, with authentic homestays in guest gers next to local nomadic families. Spend time with your hosts and also use these fabulous wilderness locations as a base to explore the surrounding area on foot, by horse, and by vehicle. You will experience a range of cultural traditions, cookery, ankle-bone games, and herding livestock, which may all feature at some stage along your way.