Mongolian Overland Expedition

Expedition in Ulaanbaatar

Duration : 15 days/14 nights. Languages:

Day 1
Arrive Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia
Day 2
In the morning, depart westwards towards Khustain Nuruu National Park, a habitat for the last species of wild horses in the World. Named after a Polish colonel Przewalski, who discovered them, otherwise locally called “Takhi”., these horses ceased to exist in their natural homeland of Mongolia in mid 20th century, due to harsh weather conditions as well as extreme human interference. Observe these unique animals recently re-introduced back to their native land. Explore the area. (BLD; G; Dr)
Day 3
After lunch, continue westwards to reach the site of an ancient capital of 13th century Mongol Empire – Khar Khorum (Karakorum/Kharkhorin). Established in 8th century by one of the Mongol tribes, Khar Khorum was originally built as a weapon production and military training unit. After collapse of the Empire in 14th century, Khar Khorum was destroyed by Chinese Min Dynasty warriors. In 16th century, the ruins of the capital were used as a construction of the largest and the main Buddhist monastery in the country – Erdene Zuu, which is an exact prototype of an ancient capital but 10 times smaller. Explore the area. (BLD; G; Dr)
Day 4
After an interesting excursion at the monastery, depart northwest towards Tsenkher Hot Spa. On the way visit historical monuments of ancient Mongol Empires of 8th century. Tsenkher Hot Spa center is a perfect place to relax, take away the stress of a long international journey, driving, and constantly coming new information. Opportunities for horse riding. (BLD; G; Dr)
Day 5
After lunch, you will be perfectly ready to continue our expedition. Today’s destination is a Taikhar Rock. Having a volcanic origination, this bizarre 18 meter tall rock stands in the middle of nowhere. The beautiful valley of the Tamir river river, where Taikhar Rock found it’s home, is a beloved place for local nomads to camp for summer. We’ll stay at nomadic family tonight. Opportunity to ride horses, observe and study a one day life of the nomads. (BLD; FS; Dr)
Day 6
In the morning, we continue northwest to Terkhiin Tsagaan Nuur (Great White Lake). This beautiful alpine lake, emerged due to the volcanic eruption, offers great fishing, horse riding, hiking, boating opportunities. Khorgo the dead volcano, that caused the lake to appear, is located next to the lake. (BLD; G; Dr)
Day 7
In the afternoon, depart north towards the picturesque Khovsgol province, a home for the beautiful Khovsgol Lake nicknamed as a Blue Pearl. Stop overnight at Jargalant Hot Spa Center, a perfect stop over on the way to the beautiful lake after which the entire province was named. (BLD; G; Dr)
Day 8
In the morning, leave for Hatgal, the gateway to the Khovsgol National Park and the southernmost settlement of the Lake Khovsgol. Here we will spend following two full days hiking, optional horse riding, boating, kayaking, and relaxing before journey back. (BLD; G)
Day 9 – 10:
Full day at the lake. (BLD; G)
Day 11:
After lunch, depart south towards Muron, the capital of the Khovsgol province. Explore the town on foot. Drive towards ancient historical monuments and burial site of the 6th to 8th century kings. (BLD; C or H; Dr)
Day 12:
In the early morning, leave the town and drive southeast towards Burkheer Togoo dead volcano. Explore the area on foot. (BLD; G; Dr)
Day 13:
Continue further southeast to reach a unique heritage of Mongolian architecture – the Amarbayasgalant Monastery. Built in early 18th century, this monastery is a priceless artifact of Mongolian woodwork based on a method of fittings but not nails. Explore the monastery and surrounds. (BLD; G; Dr)
Day 14:
In the morning, leave for UB. Arrive to UB early in the evening. (BLD; H; Dr)
Day 15:
Transfer to the airport for an international departure. (B)

Areas of visit:
Ulaanbaatar (The Capitol), Uvurkhangai (central region), Arkhangai (central region), Khovsgol (northern region);

Itinerary legend: B – breakfast, L – lunch, D – dinner; C – camping, G – ger lodge, GH – guest house, A – apartment, H – hotel; Dr – driving; H – hiking; HR – horse riding; FS – family stay; opt – optional;

Trip activities: The distances are VAST. Extensive driving, recreational hiking, camping, family stay, and optional horse riding.

PS:
Opportunity to view Naadam (the national competition of wrestling, horse racing and archery) Festival is on July 11 – 13. However, if the main state event is missed, there are many opportunities to view the games as a local event in mid and early fall.

Additional information