Days: 6 nights/7 days
Highlights: Kharkhorin, Erdenezuu monastery, Hustai National Park, Naadam Festival
Season: July annually
Group size: 1-10 pax
Activity scale: Smooth
Kharkhorin is located at the lower end of the valley of the Orkhon River, just 320 km from Ulaanbaatar, and is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site known as the Orkhon Valley Cultural Landscape. Nearby, the ancient town of Karakorum stands as a testament to Mongolia’s storied past, having briefly served as the capital of the Mongol Empire under Ugedei Khan in the 13th century. A key highlight of the area is the Erdene Zuu Monastery, the oldest surviving Buddhist monastery in Mongolia. Founded in 1585 by Abtai Sain Khan during the introduction of Tibetan Buddhism, Erdene Zuu was constructed using stones from the ruins of Karakorum. The monastery is enclosed by a wall adorned with 108 stupas—a sacred number in Buddhism, symbolizing spiritual completion and often represented in a Buddhist rosary.
In the 18th century, the monastery ultimately housed 62 temples by 1872. During the communist period in 1937, the monastery faced destruction, leaving only three small temples and the external wall with stupas intact. These remnants were converted into museums in 1947, and Erdene Zuu was designated as a museum. Following the fall of communism in 1990, Erdene Zuu was returned to the lamas and restored as a place of worship. Today, it stands not only as an active Buddhist monastery but also as a captivating museum open to visitors, offering a unique glimpse into Mongolia’s rich spiritual heritage.
Naadam is a vibrant traditional festival in Mongolia, also known as “Eriin Gurvan Naadam” or “The Three Manly Games.” Celebrated during the midsummer holidays, it features thrilling competitions in Mongolian wrestling, horse racing, and archery, with increasing participation from women and girls in archery and horse racing. In 2010, Naadam was inscribed on UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. The festival’s opening ceremony is a highlight, but tickets are limited, making it a must-see event with BTTC Travel.
| Pax number | Tour package price/per person |
| 1 pax | US$ 2840 |
| 2 pax | US$ 2250 |
| 3-5 pax | US$ 1970 |
| 6-10 pax | US$ 1520 |
Upon arrival in Ulaanbaatar, the professional BTTC Travel team will warmly welcome you at the airport or train station and escort you to your hotel, conveniently located in the vibrant heart of the city. Then we will start the city tour including a visit to the Sukhbaatar square, Museum of National History to discover fascinating exhibits related to Mongolian history, including a splendid collection of traditional costumes. If time allows, we will visit the World War II Memorial at Zaisan Hill, where we can enjoy stunning panoramic views of the city,
After breakfast, we will start out on a scenic drive to Kharkhorin, covering 380 km through breathtaking landscapes. On the way, you may have the opportunity to visit a local nomadic family, where you can experience their unique way of life and even participate in a memorable horse-riding session. Arrive in Kharkhorin and settle in for the night at a cozy ger camp, where you’ll enjoy traditional Mongolian hospitality. (B/L/D)
Start your day with breakfast at the camp before starting our journey to Erdene Zuu, once one of the largest monasteries in Mongolia, nearly destroyed in the 1930s. Explore the monastery grounds and several chapels, where you’ll find remarkable examples of Buddhist iconography dating back to the 16th century.
Next, visit the iconic ruins of Karakorum, the 13th-century capital of the Mongol Empire, and immerse yourself in the rich history that shaped this legendary city. After a fascinating tour, return to the Karakorum base camp for lunch. In the afternoon, enjoy a short drive to Bayangobi, covering 80 km, where stunning landscapes await. Spend the night at a ger camp near Bayangobi, where you can unwind and reflect on the day’s adventures. (B/L/D)
After breakfast, we will drive to Hustai National Park, nestled in the foothills of the southern Khentii mountain range. This stunning park is renowned for being home to the Takhi, or Przewalski horse, a remarkable wild horse that has thrived independently in its natural habitat. After a successful reintroduction following a 40-year extinction, the Takhi population has now exceeded 423 individuals, making this a unique opportunity to witness these incredible animals in the wild. For those seeking adventure, optional horse riding is available, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the breathtaking landscapes of the park. Return to Ulaanbaatar and overnight in a hotel. (B/L/D)
Start your day with breakfast at the hotel before heading to the Central Stadium in the southern part of Ulaanbaatar for the Naadam Festival Opening Ceremony, which starts at 11 am, this spectacular event features an impressive march of monks and athletes, lively music, and colorful parades that celebrate Mongolian culture. The highlight of the day is the first round of wrestling, which begins around noon in the main stadium. This thrilling event is not only captivating but also incredibly photogenic, providing perfect opportunities for memorable snapshots. After lunch, we will see an archery contest, where skilled contestants use traditional compound bows made from sinew, wood, horn, and bamboo, strung with bull tendon. Watch as men fire 40 arrows from 75 meters, while women shoot 20 arrows from 60 meters, all aiming for a bullseye. Another popular Naadam activity is the ankle bone shooting, a game played with shagai—sheep anklebones that serve as both game pieces and tokens of friendship and divination. Enjoy a Naadam Gala Dinner accompanied by captivating performances of traditional Mongolian folk music. Overnight in a hotel. (B/L/D)
After breakfast, head to the horse racing area to witness the thrilling races featuring 4- and 5-year-old horses. Horse racing is a cherished sport among herders, who travel great distances to showcase their finest steeds. Unlike Western horse racing, these races take place on the vast steppe, covering distances from 15 to 30 kilometers, testing the endurance of both horses and riders. The young riders, aged 6 to 12, are exceptionally skilled, having been riding since infancy. During the races, up to 500 horses from every corner of Mongolia compete, divided into six categories based on age. For instance, two-year-old horses race over 10 miles (16 kilometers), while seven-year-olds race for 17 miles (30 kilometers). These magnificent racehorses are fed a special diet to prepare for the competition. After lunch we will visit Bogd Khaan Palace Museum, also known as the Green Palace. Built in 1903, this stunning palace was dedicated to the 8th Bogd Gegeen, the last khan of Mongolia and head of Buddhism. Marvel at the remarkable art displayed within, including exquisite bronze castings, silk paintings, mineral-based icons, and intricate deity statues crafted by the renowned artist Zanabazar and his students. Conclude your day with a comfortable overnight stay at the hotel, reflecting on the rich culture and traditions of Mongolia. (B/L/D)
Our professional BTTC Travel team will be at your service to transfer to the airport. With a commitment to exceptional hospitality, we’ll make sure your experience is smooth and stress-free. Our team assists you with any last-minute needs, ensuring you leave with a sense of fulfillment and a heart full of cherished experiences. (B/-/-)
