Days: 8 nights/9 days
Highlights: Nomadic family, Kharkhorin, Erdenezuu Monastery, Hustai National Park
Season: June-September
Group size: 1-10 pax
Activity scale: Smooth
Mongolia is well known for its enduring nomadic traditions, with one of the last surviving nomadic cultures still thriving in its rural landscapes. About 30 percent of Mongolians continue to live as herders, preserving their traditional lifestyle amidst vast open steppes and rugged terrain. These nomads dwell miles from towns and villages, often with limited electricity, relying on the seasonal rhythms of herding and moving to find the best pastures. Their herds include the “Five Animals”—goats, sheep, cattle (including yaks), camels, and horses—which provide sustenance and form the heart of nomadic life. For transportation, Mongolian nomads rely on their horses, a cultural mainstay. Historically, Mongolian cavalry was feared for their speed and strength, while in daily life, horses are essential for guarding herds and producing airag, a beloved traditional drink made from fermented mare’s milk.
Travelers to Mongolia have a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in this fascinating culture, sharing time with nomadic families, resting in traditional gers, and experiencing the Mongolian way of life firsthand. This journey offers an unforgettable window into an ancient, resilient lifestyle that few places on Earth still hold.
|
Pax number |
Tour package price/per person |
|
1 pax |
US$ 2640 |
|
2 pax |
US$ 2490 |
|
3-5 pax |
US$ 2175 |
|
6-10 pax |
US$ 2095 |
Upon your arrival in Ulaanbaatar, BTTC Travel guide will greet you at the airport or train station and transfer to the hotel in the city. After a refreshment break, we will start the city tour including a visit to the Museum of National History. Here, you’ll discover fascinating exhibits related to Mongolian history, including a splendid collection of traditional costumes. Welcome dinner and overnight at the hotel. (-/L/D)
Begin your day with a morning visit to Gandan Monastery, the spiritual heart of Mongolian Buddhism. Known as “The Great Place of Complete Joy,” Gandan is a renowned center for learning and practicing Buddha’s teachings. Situated in the heart of Ulaanbaatar, this historic monastery is a symbol of Mongolia’s Buddhist heritage and resilience, having endured periods of political repression.
The Gandan complex showcases stunning Mongolian architecture, with intricately designed temples, statues, and stupas. The main temple, Migjid Janraisig houses a magnificent 26.5-meter-high statue of Avalokitesvara (Migjid Janraisig), adorned with gold and precious stones—a revered sage guiding followers on the path to Truth. Today, over 150 monks reside at the monastery, continuing its spiritual legacy. Then we will drive to horseman family to experience nomadic way of life and experience the warmth of Mongolian hospitality, learn age-old herding traditions, and gain insight into daily life on the open steppe. Overnight at the nomadic family ger. (B/L/D)
For the next three days, immerse yourself in the timeless rhythms of nomadic life on the Mongolian steppe by joining local families in their daily routines, from assembling a traditional ger—Mongolia’s round dwelling—to participating in everyday household tasks. Experience the deep connection Mongolian pastoralists have with their herds, whose health and well-being are vital to their livelihood.
Nomadic families relocate several times each year, following pasture and seasonal needs. Summer camps are often set by rivers for easy access to water, while winter camps nestle in protected valleys or forest edges, shielding families and herds from the harsh Mongolian winter. Small enclosures are built to shelter animals, helping them stay warm overnight. Each animal serves multiple roles, providing meat, milk, hides, and materials for gers, clothing, and tools. Horses (and camels in the Gobi) hold a special place, as they are essential for transportation.
Women oversee household duties and the production of dairy products, often milking cows and mares up to five times daily to make cheese, yogurt, and milk vodka. Men handle herding, equipment maintenance, and gather livestock each night to protect against wolves—a frequent presence on the steppe. Embrace the unique lifestyle of Mongolia’s nomads and witness the resilience and harmony of their centuries-old traditions. (B/L/D)
Begin with a day drive to Kharkhorin for 230km, to discover the ancient capital of the Great Mongolian Empire and a jewel of Mongolian Buddhism—the Erdenezuu Monastery. Established in 1220 in the picturesque Orkhon River valley, Kharkhorin served as a vital stop along the legendary Silk Road for 140 years, playing a significant role in Mongolia’s rich history. This fascinating town was the heart of the Mongolian Great Empire until Kublai Khan, the grandson of Genghis Khan, relocated the capital to Beijing during the Yuan Dynasty. As you explore the area, marvel at the nearly 800-year-old Turtle Rock, a sacred site near the monastery. Arrive in Kharkhorin in the afternoon and overnight in a cozy ger camp. (B/L/D)
Morning visit to Erdenezuu Monastery, the first Buddhist monastery in Mongolia, was founded by Avtai Sain Khan, a descendant of Genghis Khan, in 1586 atop the ruins of Kharkhorin. This stunning monastery is enveloped by striking white walls adorned with 108 stupas, creating a breathtaking sight that reflects its rich heritage.
For centuries, Erdenezuu has served as a spiritual and intellectual center of Mongolia, housing an extraordinary collection of Buddhist paintings and priceless religious artifacts. Visitors can admire intricate ceremonial costumes for the Tsama religious dance and beautifully crafted Buddhist iconography that showcases both Mongolian and Tibetan artistic styles. Experience the profound history and artistry of this remarkable monastery, where tradition and spirituality converge. After lunch in Kharkhorin we will drive to Hustai National Park. The park is nestled in the foothills of the southern Khentii mountain range and is home to the wild horse known as Takhi, or Przewalski horse, in the global community. These remarkable wild horses thrive independently in their natural habitat, having been successfully reintroduced to their homeland after being extinct for 40 years. Today, the population of Takhi has exceeded 423 individuals. Overnight in a ger camp. (B/L/D)
Drive back to Ulaanbaatar and transfer to a hotel for well-deserved relaxation. Enjoy a captivating city tour that includes visits to the Fine Art Museum, showcasing Mongolia’s rich artistic heritage, and indulge in some shopping at the State Department Store, where you can find unique souvenirs and local crafts. Conclude your journey with a delightful farewell dinner and overnight at the hotel. (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/-/-)
