The Cradle Of Mongolian Civilization

Today, we will journey to Khustain Nuruu National Park. Just before reaching the park, we will stop at the Mongol Nomadic Tourist Camp to immerse ourselves in local culture and traditions.

The Przewalski's Horse, also known as the Takhi horse, is a rare and endangered wild horse subspecies native to the steppes of Central Asia. Once extinct in the wild, it has been reintroduced to its natural habitat in Mongolia. Khustain Nuruu National Park was established as a reserve in 1993 and was elevated to national park status in 1998. Currently, the park is home to approximately 350 Takhi horses, along with 459 vascular plant species and 217 bird species.

Upon our arrival at the Khustain Nuruu National Park camp, we will meet the park staff and learn about their ongoing projects. In the afternoon, we will explore the park's stunning natural wonders.

Activities:
Explore Khustai National Park
Catch a glimpse of the wild horses.

Hotel/Other Details: Yurt stay

Meal Plan: Breakfast lunch and Dinner

Today, we journey to Karakorum, the former capital of Genghis Khan’s empire in the 13th century. Founded in 1220 on the remnants of ancient Turug and Uigur cities in the Orkhon Valley, it was completed 15 years later under Ugedei Khan. Known for its multiculturalism, Karakorum thrived as a political, commercial, and cultural centre. The famous Silver Tree from Möngke Khan’s palace became a symbol of the city’s prosperity.

In 1260, Karakorum lost its status when Kublai Khan moved the capital to Beijing. Though briefly revived after the fall of the Yuan Dynasty in 1368, it was destroyed by Ming troops in 1388. Later, in 1580, Abtai Sain Khan and Lord Tumenkhen sought spiritual guidance from the 3rd Dalai Lama, leading to the founding of the Erdene Zuu Monastery in 1588 on the city’s ruins.

Once a vast complex of 100 temples and over 1,000 lamas, Erdene Zuu now contains three surviving temples—Dalai Lama, Zuu of Buddha, and Lavrin Temple—all enclosed within a 400 x 400-meter wall. The grounds remain open for exploration. 

A visit to the Karakorum Archaeological Museum reveals artefacts from the 13th–14th centuries, including tools, pottery, religious sculptures, coins, and inscriptions. Highlights include a partially excavated kiln embedded in the floor, a scale model of ancient Karakorum (inspired by William of Rubruck’s account), and a Turkic noble’s tomb filled with wall paintings, gold, and jewellery, presented alongside an informative video.

We'll also stop by Turtle Rock and Phallic Rock, and browse a small market featuring local art and crafts.

Activities:
Visit the Erdene Zuu monastery
Explore the Karakorum museum

Hotel/Other Details: Yurt stay

Meal Plan: Breakfast lunch and Dinner

Today, we head to Khogno Khan National Park for a scenic trek through the mountains, ending with panoramic views of hills, dunes, and vast grasslands. We’ll also visit the serene Ovgon Monastery.

Nearby, the Elsen Tasarkhai Sand Dunes—known as the Little Gobi—stretch across 100 kilometres, offering a striking desert landscape in the heart of the steppe.

Activities: 
Explore Elsen Tasarkhai Sand Dunes
Hike Khogno Khan Mountain
Visit Ovgon Monastery
Meet a camel-herding family
Optional camel riding experience

Hotel/Other Details: Yurt stay

Meal Plan: Breakfast lunch and Dinner

The moment has arrived to depart and make your way back to Ulaanbaatar, the capital of Mongolia. You are free to spend your afternoon as you wish. You will have the opportunity to enjoy a beautiful cultural performance, featuring talented contortionists, while you take in the vibrant and rhythmic dances of Mongolia.

Activities: 
Attend a folklore show featuring throat singers
Shop for a souvenir or cashmere. Optional

Hotel/Other Details: Yurt stay

Meal Plan: Breakfast and Lunch