Orkhon Valley & Eight Lakes: Nomadic Trails Trek
Overview
Embark on an unforgettable adventure through Mongolia’s stunning landscapes with our Trekking to the Eight Lakes and Orkhon Valley. Experience the serene beauty of glistening alpine lakes nestled amidst lush meadows, majestic mountains, and pristine wilderness. Traverse traditional nomadic herding routes, explore hidden waterfalls, and enjoy breathtaking panoramic views at every turn. This trek offers an authentic connection with nature, vibrant local culture, and a sense of peace away from the hustle and bustle of modern life. Perfect for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and those longing to discover Mongolia’s incredible natural beauty.Private Touring
- Flexible Dates
- 24-Hour Local Assistance
- Flexible Itinerary
- Upgrade Accommodation
- Professional Guide Throughout
- Modern Airconditioned Vehicle
Itinerary
Today, we explore Karakorum, the capital of Genghis Khan's Mongolian Empire in the 13th century. Established in 1220 on the ruins of Turug and Uigur cities in the Orkhon Valley, it was completed 15 years later under Ugedei Khan, known for its multiculturalism. The silver tree from Möngke Khan’s palace became a symbol of the city, which thrived from 1220 to 1260 as a political, trade, and cultural hub.
However, from 1260 to 1380, it lost its capital status when Kublai Khan moved the capital to Beijing, reducing Karakorum to an administrative centre in the Yuan Dynasty.
After the Mongolian Yuan Dynasty collapsed in 1368, the government returned to Mongolia, allowing Karakorum to regain some significance. However, in 1388, Ming troops destroyed the town, leaving no trace of it. In 1580, Abtai Sain Khan and Lord Tumenkhen sought the 3rd Dalai Lama's counsel on building a temple, leading to the restoration of the Main Zuu temple in Erdene Zuu monastery in 1588.
Erdene Zuu Monastery, once a large complex with 100 temples and over 1,000 lamas, now comprises three remaining temples: Dalai Lama, Zuu of Buddha, and Lavrin Temple, all within 400 m X 400 m walls. Visitors can explore the monastery grounds.
The Karakorum Archaeological Museum, though small, features a well-designed space with good lighting and clear English labels. It showcases hundreds of artefacts from the 13th and 14th centuries, as well as prehistoric tools, pottery, bronzes, coins, religious sculptures, and stone inscriptions from various archaeological sites.
A half-excavated kiln is set into the museum floor, alongside a scale model of ancient Karakorum from the 1250s, inspired by William of Rubruck's descriptions. Another chamber features a Turkic noble tomb with wall paintings, gold objects, and jewels, accompanied by a short video of the burial site.
You can also visit the Turtle Rock and the Phallic Rock, as well as a small market that showcases local artists’ work.
Activities:
Explore the Erdene Zuu monastery
Discover the Karakorum Archaeological Museum
Meal Plan: Lunch & Dinner
Today, we’ll journey west into the Orkhon Valley, where the Orkhon River winds through a landscape rich in history and natural beauty. Recognised as a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site, the valley is home to ancient relics that date as far back as the 6th century and earlier. It was also the site of Karakorum, the capital of the great Mongol Empire during the 12th and 13th centuries. The traditional nomadic lifestyle continues to thrive here, preserving a way of life deeply connected to both history and nature. During the Quaternary period, a volcanic eruption near the mouth of the Tsagaan Azarga, or White Stallion River, sent lava flowing down the valley, forming a basalt layer around 10 meters thick. Over time, the Orkhon River carved through this basalt not once, but twice, shaping the dramatic canyon we see today.
Our first stop would be Tovkhon Monastery, established in the 1650s by Zanabazar, one of Mongolia’s most revered spiritual figures, which is a serene retreat nestled near a hilltop. Its wooden buildings blend seamlessly with a network of natural caves, offering sweeping views of the Orkhon Valley and surrounding pine forests. At the summit, a sacred stone cairn known as an Ovoo stands in tribute to the mountain god, adding spiritual significance to the site.
Activities:
Hike 7 km to Tovkhon Monastery, which takes approximately 3 to 4 hours.
Explore the Orkhon Valley
Meal Plan: Breakfast lunch and Dinner
After breakfast, we’ll set out on a short hike to a nearby waterfall. Later, we’ll drive for about an hour to reach the Bituu River, where our packhorses will be waiting. After an early lunch, we’ll load our gear and begin riding by noon. The Bituu River marks the entrance to the pass that leads into the Valley of the Eight Lakes—a remote and breathtaking area shaped by ancient volcanic activity. Surrounded by extinct volcanoes and towering peaks, the valley lives up to its name with a chain of small, interconnected lakes.
Khuis Lake is one of the first lakes you'll encounter when entering the Valley of the Eight Lakes. Smaller in size but rich in charm, it stands out with a large rocky island at its centre—an eye-catching feature that gives it a unique, almost mystical character. Surrounded by forested slopes and nestled in a quiet basin, Khuis Lake feels like a hidden sanctuary, offering a perfect moment of stillness before the trail becomes more rugged and adventurous.
Activities:
Trekking through scenic trails.
Visit the serene Khuis Lake.
Meal Plan: Breakfast lunch and Dinner
We will continue our trek to Shireet Lake, which is one of the crown jewels of the Valley of the Eight Lakes in Mongolia’s Khangai Mountains. Nestled deep in a volcanic basin, it’s the largest and most striking of the eight lakes, known for its crystal-clear waters, dramatic surroundings, and peaceful isolation. Towering cliffs, dense forests, and alpine meadows create a magical backdrop, making it a perfect reflection of untouched wilderness.
Activities:
Trek through picturesque landscapes
Explore the peaceful beauty of Shireet Lake.
Meal Plan: Breakfast lunch and Dinner
Bugat Lake is a peaceful gem tucked deep within the Valley of the Eight Lakes. Smaller and more secluded than some of its neighbouring lakes, it offers a quiet, reflective atmosphere—perfect for a restful pause during the trek. Surrounded by soft hills, larch forests, and wild alpine flowers, Bugat Lake feels like a hidden retreat in the heart of the wilderness. Khaliun Lake is one of the tranquil stops along the trail through the Valley of the Eight Lakes. Set against a backdrop of rugged cliffs and dense forest, it offers a striking contrast between wild terrain and still waters. It’s a peaceful, lesser-travelled spot where the only sounds are the wind through the trees and the occasional bird call—making it a perfect place to pause, reflect, and reconnect with nature. Waters add to the valley’s dreamlike charm.
Activities:
Trek through the stunning terrain
Explore the serene Bugat and Khaliun Rivers
Meal Plan: Breakfast lunch and Dinner
Shavart Lake is a tranquil and secluded gem tucked away in the Valley of the Eight Lakes. Encircled by gentle hills and scattered forests, its still waters perfectly reflect the sky and surrounding scenery. Unlike the more striking lakes in the valley, Shavart Lake offers a quieter, more intimate atmosphere—ideal for moments of solitude and reflection. This peaceful stop enhances the journey, offering a serene glimpse into the pristine beauty of the Khangai Mountains.
We'll continue our journey through a large, volcanic, rocky valley, where many families live with their livestock. The views of the lakes and volcanic craters are breathtaking.
Activities:
Trek through the scenic landscape
Explore the tranquil beauty of Shavart Lake
Meal Plan: Breakfast lunch and Dinner
Our journey ends today as we make our way back to the Orkhon Valley. In the afternoon, we’ll return to the nearby Grey camp near the waterfall, where we began our adventure. In the afternoon, we’ll visit a nomadic family that raises yaks and horses, giving us an insight into their traditional way of life. In the evening, we’ll enjoy a barbecue together under the open sky.
If a 22 km trek is too long, vehicles can pick them up halfway.
Activities:
Trek through the stunning landscape
Visit a traditional nomadic family
Savour a delicious Mongolian barbecue
Meal Plan: Breakfast lunch and Dinner
Khogno Khan Mountain is a scenic destination located in the central part of Mongolia. Known for its rugged terrain and dramatic landscapes, it is part of the Khogno Khan Uul Nature Reserve. The mountain rises from the surrounding steppe, offering expansive views of the vast, unspoiled wilderness. The area is steeped in history and natural beauty, with ancient monasteries like Ovgon Khiid nestled in its foothills, adding a spiritual dimension to the landscape.
Not far from the mountains, we have the Elsen Tasarkhai Sand Dunes, often referred to as the Little Gobi, which stretch for 100 kilometres.
Activities:
Explore the Elsen Tasarkhai dunes
Discover Khogno Khan mountain
Visit the Ovgon monastery
Meet a camel-breeding family
Opportunity for camel riding
Meal Plan: Breakfast lunch and Dinner
The time has come to depart and head back to Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia’s capital. You’ll have the afternoon free to explore at your leisure. Consider enjoying a captivating cultural show, where you can witness amazing contortionists, traditional throat singing, and colourful, rhythmic Mongolian dances.
Activities:
Attend a folklore show featuring throat singers
Shop for a souvenir or cashmere. Optional
Meal Plan: Breakfast and Lunch
Inclusions
Meals:
• 8 breakfasts, 9 lunches, and 8 dinners.
• Mineral water included.
Activities & Entrance Fees:
• Entrance fees for all national parks, museums, and monasteries in the countryside.
• Visit to a nomadic family.
• Mongolian barbecue experience.
Guide:
• English-speaking guide throughout the trip.
Transportation:
• Land Cruiser / Lexus with driver and fuel. Vehicles accommodate 4 passengers (5 people, including the driver). Please note that the passenger seated in the middle of the rear seat may feel slightly cramped.
• Pack horses: all equipment, luggage, and food supplies will be loaded onto pack horses and led by local nomads throughout the trek.
Accommodation:
• 4 nights in a ger camp with shared facilities.
• 4 nights in a tented camp. All camping equipment will be provided.
Exclusions
• Hotel in Ulaanbaatar.
• City tour in Ulaanbaatar.
• Any other activities in Ulaanbaatar.
• Meals in Ulaanbaatar.
• International airport transfers.
• Soft and alcoholic drinks throughout the trip.
Notes
Tour Highlights:
A Volcanic Wonderland: Explore a dramatic landscape shaped by ancient volcanic eruptions. The lakes themselves are nestled in the craters and valleys of the Khorgo Volcano region, creating a unique and rugged terrain.
Pristine Alpine Beauty: Each of the eight lakes has its own distinct character and colour, ranging from deep sapphire to shimmering emerald. They are incredibly clear, secluded, and perfect for reflection photography.
Serene Wilderness: This area is less populated than the valley, offering a profound sense of solitude and connection with raw, untouched nature. The silence is broken only by nature’s sounds.
The Orkhon Waterfall (Ulaan Tsutgalan): A stunning and unexpected spectacle. Witness the Orkhon River, the longest in Mongolia, plunge 20 meters (66 ft) over a volcanic basalt cliff, carving a beautiful canyon through the steppe.
Nomadic Culture Immersion: This is the living heart of the journey. You’ll encounter nomadic families, be invited into their gers for fermented mare’s milk (airag) and salty milk tea, and see firsthand their ancient way of herding horses, sheep, goats, and yaks.
Endless Steppe Vistas: Hike through vast, rolling grasslands that stretch to the horizon in every direction. The sheer scale of the landscape is awe-inspiring and humbling.
Land of Historical Significance: Walk through a UNESCO World Heritage Site that was once the centre of the Mongol Empire. Feel the weight of history in this cradle of nomadic civilisations.
Horseback Riding Opportunities: The Orkhon Valley is the perfect place to experience Mongolia on horseback, the traditional way to travel. Ride alongside local horsemen across the open steppe.
Standard Ger Camps (shared facilities):
These camps feature shared bathroom facilities with hot showers and flush toilets located in a communal block, separated for men and women. All facilities are clean, well-maintained, and comfortable, but shared by all guests of the camp.
Please note that the prices are starting from rates, and upon sending a new request with a specific date, we will send the applicable rate and availability.
Dates & Pricing
2-3 Pax
4-5 Pax
6 Plus
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