JOY MONGOLIA TRAVEL

Today, we will embark on an unforgettable journey to Gorkhi-Terelj National Park, a place of breathtaking natural beauty and tranquility. On the way, we will stop to marvel at the majestic Genghis Khan Equestrian Statue, the world’s tallest statue of a man on horseback, standing an impressive 40 meters high. This iconic monument offers panoramic views from the observation deck, allowing you to truly appreciate the surrounding landscapes.

Upon arriving at the national park, we will explore its serene environment, starting with a visit to the famous Turtle Rock, a fascinating rock formation resembling a giant turtle. From there, we will hike to the Aryaval Meditation Temple, nestled amidst stunning natural scenery. The temple offers a peaceful atmosphere and provides spectacular views of the surrounding mountains, making it an ideal spot to reflect and connect with nature.

This adventure promises a perfect blend of history, culture, and the unspoiled beauty of Mongolia’s wilderness.

We will journey to the awe-inspiring granite formations of Baga Gazriin Chuluu, located amidst the expansive steppe in the northwestern part of Dundgobi Province. This remarkable natural wonder rises to an impressive altitude of 1.09 miles (1,751 meters) and features a breathtaking granite canyon sculpted by nature. The polished rock faces of the cliffs tell a geological story millions of years in the making, adding to the area’s allure.

Baga Gazriin Chuluu offers an exceptional opportunity for hiking and exploration. This unique erosion process has created a surreal landscape that is not only fascinating but also a haven for nature enthusiasts and adventurers.

Prepare to immerse yourself in this captivating environment that promises unforgettable experiences and stunning views.

Today, our journey will take us to one of Mongolia’s most remote and mesmerizing regions: the White Stupa, known locally as Tsagaan Suvarga. To reach this extraordinary site, we will traverse vast stone deserts and semi-arid steppes, immersing ourselves in the raw beauty of Mongolia’s untamed landscapes.

The White Stupa is a breathtaking natural formation that rises 100 feet into the air, resembling a sacred stupa. For generations, this rocky mountain has been a place of reverence and awe for the Mongolian people.

Adding to its mystique, the area is rich in ancient fossils, a reminder of a time when this land was submerged beneath a prehistoric sea millions of years ago. This is a destination that will inspire and captivate, leaving visitors with unforgettable memories of its otherworldly charm.

We will embark on a memorable hike through the stunning Yoliin Am Canyon, a breathtaking gorge nestled in the heart of the Gobi Desert and famously known as the home of bearded vultures. Our journey will take us to the bottom of the canyon, where snow and ice remain throughout most of the year. Due to the canyon’s steep and narrow walls, the ice begins to melt only in August, making this a truly unique natural phenomenon.

Yol Canyon, situated at an impressive altitude of 2,500 meters, is a place of extraordinary beauty and biodiversity. This area is home to permanent glaciers, rare and indigenous plant species, and an incredible variety of wildlife, including the elusive snow leopard, wild sheep, and, of course, the majestic bearded vultures. Every step in this remarkable canyon will leave you awestruck by its unparalleled natural wonders.

We will visit the stunning Khongor Dunes, Mongolia’s most spectacular sand dunes, and spend two nights immersed in their beauty. Stretching over 180 km in length and 20 km in width, these majestic dunes reach an average height of 120 m, with the highest peak standing at 80 m.

We’ll hike to the top of Duut Mankhan Peak, where you can marvel at the breathtaking expanse of the Gobi Desert, just as camel herders have for generations, and catch glimpses of its remote and untouched landscapes.

For a truly unique experience, we offer a short camel ride along the Khongor River (based on your preference), allowing you to explore the Gobi Desert in one of the most authentic ways possible.

We will visit the ‘Cemetery of Dragons’ at the Bayanzag cliffs, famously known as the ‘Flaming Cliffs’ because of their distinctive ochre red color that illuminates the landscape. This striking natural wonder, along with the surrounding saxaul forests, stands as a powerful reminder of an era when massive dinosaurs roamed the Earth. The cliffs themselves are a living testament to the rich prehistoric history of the region.

In 1922, paleontologist Roy Andrews Chapman made groundbreaking discoveries at Bayanzag, unearthing several dinosaur bones and eggs that would forever change our understanding of the prehistoric world.

While at Bayanzag, visitors can enjoy exploring the cliffs, hiking the saxaul forests, and searching for fossils, making it a truly immersive experience in this historic location

“Heading north from the south, we will make a stop at the Ongi Monastery, providing the perfect break between the Gobi and Khangai regions. This peaceful stop allows you to rest and unwind in the serene surroundings, making it an ideal pause during our long journey.

The monastery’s location near the Ongi River offers a beautiful, tranquil setting for visitors to relax and explore the area. Nestled in a small mountainous area, the monastery was founded in 1660 and was once one of Mongolia’s largest Buddhist centers.

Today, we can hike around the scenic terrain, enjoy the breathtaking views, and immerse us in the history of this ancient site. The calm and peaceful atmosphere also invites moments of reflection and relaxation, offering a truly rejuvenating experience in the heart of nature.”

For thousands of years, nomads have called the Orkhon Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, their summer home. We will embark on a journey to this remarkable valley, renowned for its cultural significance and scenic beauty. During our stay, we will live with a real herder family for three nights, experiencing their traditional way of life among yaks, sheep, goats, and horses. The family’s home is surrounded by majestic mountains, volcanic rocks, and the Orkhon River, offering an idyllic and peaceful setting in the heart of nature.

On our journey, we will make a stop at the stunning Uurtiin Tokhoi Cliff, which offers a breathtaking view of the Orkhon River. This iconic site is not only famous for its dramatic landscape but also holds immense cultural significance. The towering cliffs and surrounding scenery make it a perfect spot for reflection and admiration of the valley’s natural beauty.

Today, we will embark on a hike to the Orkhon Waterfall or Ulaan Tsutgalan Waterfall, one of the most popular hiking destinations in Mongolia. The waterfall is truly a natural wonder, as it dramatically cascades from the earth’s surface.

While it may not seem particularly large at first glance, Ulaan Tsutgalan is actually the largest waterfall in Mongolia, and its name is derived from the powerful, roaring sound it produces as it tumbles down.

For those who enjoy trekking, we will continue our journey to Tuvkhun Monastery, located atop the Shireet Ulaan Hill. Since the monastery is inaccessible by car, we will hike the 5 km path leading to the site (or a shorter distance, depending on your preference). The hike offers stunning views and an opportunity to connect with nature before reaching this sacred and serene destination.

We will arrive in the Kharkhorin soum of Uvurkhangai Province, home to the ancient capital of Mongolia, Karakorum. Founded around 1220, Karakorum was a pivotal stop on the Silk Road and the political center of the Mongolian Empire. It served as the empire’s capital until Kublai Khan moved it to Beijing.

Our visit will include the Erdene Zuu Monastery, a remarkable example of Mongolian architecture, encircled by a wall adorned with 108 stupas.

The monastery is not only a stunning sight but also an active spiritual site, where you may have the opportunity to witness a religious ritual if you’re interested in Buddhism.

In addition, we will explore the nearby ruins of Karakorum, where remnants of the former Mongol Empire capital can still be seen, offering a fascinating glimpse into Mongolia’s rich history.

We will travel to Ogii Lake, renowned for its diverse birdlife. The lake serves as a sanctuary for around 150 species of water birds, including rare species like the cape barren geese, spoonbill, Dalmatian pelican, cranes, and various ducks. The Water Bird Research Station is also located here, making it an important site for bird conservation and study.

In addition to its vibrant birdlife, Ogii Lake is famous for its excellent fishing opportunities.

The lake spans 5 km wide and 7 km long, with gentle waves, a smooth coastline, and fine sand that enhance its tranquil beauty. You can enjoy a boat excursion which a relaxing way to explore the lake’s serene waters.

We will drive back to Ulaanbaatar from Ogii Lake, and upon arrival, you will check into your hotel. The rest of the day is free for you to explore the city.

You may want to visit the State Department Store (Ikh Delguur), a popular shopping destination offering a wide variety of products, including traditional Mongolian items.

Alternatively, we can take some time to explore the local cashmere shops, where you can find exquisite, high-quality garments.

Enjoy a delicious breakfast at the hotel before our driver escorts you to Chinggis Khaan International Airport, in line with your flight schedule.

As you depart, we hope the memories of your time in Mongolia bring you joy and fulfillment for years to come.

We look forward to welcoming you back someday. Wishing you a safe and pleasant journey home.