Journey to Kharkhorin, Orkhon Valley. Explore Erdene Zuu Monastery, Kharkhorin Museum, and Orkhon Valley. Overnight in a Ger

Kharkhorin - The tour begins when the guide and driver meet the traveler at their hotel or airport. The journey heads towards Karakorum, the historic capital of the Great Mongolian Empire from the 13th century. Today, its ruins lie quietly, preserving the secrets of Chinggis Khan beneath the “black soil.” Visitors will explore the Kharkhorin Museum to view artifacts from these ancient ruins. The next stop is the magnificent Erdene Zuu, the oldest monastery in Mongolia, showcasing the craftsmanship of Mongol architects.

Erdene Zuu Monastery - The tour includes a visit to the Erdene Zuu Monastery, the oldest surviving Buddhist monastery in Mongolia, founded in 1586. After the ancient capital Karakorum was destroyed by Ming dynasty forces in 1388 and never rebuilt, the monastery was constructed using materials from the ruins, preserving a piece of the old capital’s heritage.

The itinerary also includes a visit to the Kharkhorum Museum, which provides a comprehensive exploration of the region’s rich history, focusing on the Mongol Empire and the ancient capital of Karakorum. Established in 2011 with support from the Japan International Cooperation Agency and the Japanese government, the museum houses over 3,000 artifacts spanning from the Upper Paleolithic period to the 14th century.

Kharkhorum Museum - The museum offers an in-depth look into the region’s rich past, with a special emphasis on the Mongol Empire and the former capital, Karakorum. Opened in 2011 with assistance from the Japan International Cooperation Agency and the Japanese government, it showcases over 3,000 artifacts dating from the Upper Paleolithic era to the 14th century. Visitors can explore a wide range of exhibits, including ceramics, bronze items, coins, religious sculptures, and inscribed stones unearthed from nearby archaeological sites. Highlights include a detailed model of ancient Karakorum, a replica of the Güyük Khan letter, and a 1347 inscription chronicling important historical events.

Travel to Mini Gobi Sand Dunes - Elsen Tasarkhai. Enjoy Camel and Horse Riding. Visit a Nomadic Family. Overnight in a Ger

Elsen Tasarkhai Sand Dune - The day begins with a journey to Elsen Tasarkhai, also known as the Mongol Els sand dunes. Along the way, travelers visit a local camel herding family, offering insight into the traditional nomadic lifestyle, and enjoy a homemade lunch. Elsen Tasarkhai stretches for about 80 km and is surrounded by gentle hills, rare shrubbery, and a small forest by a river. Visitors can walk on the golden dunes and later have lunch at a nearby tourist camp. To the north, the Tarna River flows along the edge of the sands, with Khogno Khan Mountain nearby, known for its striking rock formations and scattered trees. To the south lies a mountain marking the geographic center of Mongolia. Thanks to its partial vegetation cover, the dunes here are relatively stable and move slowly. After lunch, visitors will meet a nomadic family and experience camel and horse riding with a local guide.

Morning Sand Walking and Leisure Activities. Return to Ulaanbaatar

Ulaanbaatar - In the morning, travelers can welcome the sunrise in Mini Gobi, enjoying sand walking and sliding. After breakfast, they can spend a leisurely morning in Semi Gobi, discussing preferred activities with their guide. Later, the journey continues back to Ulaanbaatar. Upon arrival in the late afternoon, there is an opportunity to shop for souvenirs or cashmere in UB.

• Entrance fees
• Breakfast
• Lunch
• Dinner

In a brief period, this tour provides the opportunity to explore numerous iconic sites in Mongolia’s central region, including the picturesque steppe sand dunes, with chances to ride horses and camels. Participants will delve into the history of Karakorum, the ancient capital of Chinggis Khan, and visit the magnificent Erdene Zuu Monastery, one of Mongolia’s most important Buddhist temples. Along the journey, discover ancient ruins and monuments from the Turkic and Khitan periods. The adventure also leads to the Mini Gobi—Elsen Tasarkhai dunes—where visitors will meet a local horse-breeding family and experience a day in the life of a Mongolian nomad. Engage in daily chores, learn how to milk livestock, play traditional ankle bone games, and in the evening, join the hostess in preparing authentic Mongolian barbecue.

If you cancel at least 3 full day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a full refund.
If you cancel within 3 day(s) of the scheduled departure, you will receive a 0% refund.