Overview
You want to explore Mongolia, but only have a single day. We've packed the very best into one unforgettable day! On this epic day, we will take you to the Chinggis Khaan Statue Complex, where the greatest emperor in Mongolian history still commands the horizon atop his giant horse, and into the wild heart of Terelj National Park: a breathtaking landscape of towering rock formations, the winding Tuul River, and lush emerald valleys. Along the way, you will visit Turtle Rock and hike to the sacred Ariyabal Buddhist Meditation Temple perched high on the hillside. You will also visit a local nomadic family to experience their traditional way of life firsthand.
Highlights
- Chinggis Khaan's Statue Complex
- Turtle Rock
- Ariyabal Buddhist Meditation Temple
- Visit to a Mongolian nomadic family
Itinerary
Day program
- Meet your English-speaking guide and driver at 9am for pick-up from your hotel or homestay in Ulaanbaatar.
- Drive 54km east to the Chinggis Khaan Statue Complex in Tsonjin Boldog, the place where Chinggis Khaan discovered a golden whip, according to Mongolian legend.
- Explore the complex, visit the museum and archaeological exhibits, and enjoy panoramic views of the Mongolian steppe from atop the statue.
- Continue to Terelj National Park, known for its dramatic granite rock formations, lush green valleys and the winding Tuul River.
- Lunch included at a tourist Ger camp in the National Park.
- Hike to Turtle Rock, a natural granite formation symbolizing longevity in Mongolian culture, and enjoy the surrounding scenery.
- Visit Ariyabal Buddhist Meditation Temple, perched on the hillside, offering panoramic views of the valley and a glimpse into Mongolia's rich Buddhist heritage.
- Meet a local nomadic family for a genuine experience of traditional nomadic life, where you will see inside a real Ger and learn about their daily customs and traditions.
- Drive back to Ulaanbaatar. Drop-off at your hotel or homestay at approximately 6-7pm.
Included
- Hotel pick-up and drop-off in Ulaanbaatar
- English-speaking professional guide and driver
- All entrance and admission fees listed in the itinerary
- Lunch at the Tourist Ger camp
- Complimentary bottled water
- All taxes and service charges
Excluded
- Tipping (optional but appreciated)
- Soft drinks and alcohol
- Optional activities Personal expenses
- Travel insurance (we strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance before your tour)
- Any services not mentioned in the itinerary
Notes
- This is a private tour for your group only. No other travelers will join you.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes and dress in layers, as weather can change quickly.
- Sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat are recommended, especially in summer.
- Bring cash for any personal expenses, as ATMs are rare outside Ulaanbaatar.
Frequently Asked Questions
Meals included in the tour are listed in the Included section. We select restaurants and Ger camps that offer both authentic Mongolian cuisine and European dishes to suit all tastes. Please inform us of any dietary requirements or food allergies before your tour.
The tour is available all year round. The best time to visit is from May to October, when the weather is mild and the landscapes are at their most beautiful. June to August is peak season, when Terelj National Park is lush and green and the weather is warm and pleasant for hiking to Ariyabal Temple and exploring Turtle Rock. September and October offer stunning autumn colours with fewer crowds. Winter tours (November to March) are possible and offer a unique snowy landscape experience, but temperatures can drop to -30°C, so warm clothing is essential.
The official currency is the Tugrug (MNT, symbol ₮). Commonly used banknotes are 1,000₮, 5,000₮, 10,000₮ and 20,000₮. ATMs and currency exchange offices are widely available in Ulaanbaatar. Outside the city, ATMs are rare or unavailable, so we recommend bringing sufficient cash before departing Ulaanbaatar. Credit cards are accepted at most hotels and major stores in the city.
