Pioneers in Nomadic Land

Mongolia’s religious roots are bound up in Shamanist. Shamanist was the major religion during both the ancient Mongol states and the Mongol Empire until Tibetan Buddhism (also called Vajrayana Buddhism) gained more popularity after it was introduced in 13th century. Tibet’s Dalai Lama, who lives in India, is the religion’s spiritual leader, and is highly respected in Mongolia. Buddhism was introduced to Mongolia from Tibet by Khublai Khan during the late 13th century. Khublai Khan invited an eminent Tibetan lama, Pagba, to be the empire’s religious representative. From the late 14th century onwards hundreds of Buddhist temples were rapidly built across Mongolia. Thousands of Mongolian males vowed to lives as lama – at one point almost one seventh of the male population had taken robes. Until the beginning of the twentieth century Buddhism developed and spread across the country,
playing an important role in both religious and intellectual spheres of life.

Day 1: Ulaanbaatar
You will be met by the Mongolei Reisen team upon your arrival at Buyant-Ukhaa International Airport. Transfer to a comfortable, four-star hotel in downtown Ulaanbaatar for check-in and a short break. Visit the Mongolian Museum of National History, exploring the rich history of Mongolia and Genghis Khaan’s Great Empire. Next enjoy a tour of Mongolia’s vibrant capital city, beginning with Sukhbaatar Square – situated in the centre of Ulaanbaatar and at the heart of its administrative and cultural district. Afterwards we’ll visit Zaisan Hill, which offers great views of the city In the evening, enjoy a performance of traditional dance and the exquisite “khuumii” overtones-singing. Overnight in hotel (L, D)

Day 2: Khogno Khan Mountain
Spend the day at Khogno Khan Mountain, one of the top attractions in Central Mongolia. The panoramic vistas from the mountain will give an unforgettable impression of Mongolia’s size, with the view from the peak of Khogno Khan – at 1967 metres above sea level – extending for 200 kilometres. Spend the afternoon hiking and exploring the ruins of the ancient Ovgon Monastery, situated on the side of the mountain. Overnight in ger camp (B, L, D)

Day 3: Karakorum city
Head west to Karakorum – former capital of Chinggis Khaan’s great empire. Tour Erdene Zuu Buddhist Monastery, a vast religious complex surrounded by 108 stupas that was established on the ruins of Karakorum in 1586 by Abtai Sain Khan. Admire the exquisite architecture and works of art contained within the Erdene Zuu Monastery Museum, and wander through the ruins of Karakorum. Overnight in ger camp (B, L, D)

Day 4: Tsenkher Hot Springs
Travel to the south-east through beautiful forested valleys and meadows, stopping by at exceptional spots such as Zuun Mod – the “Hundred Tree” – a sacred tree hidden by thick layers of blue scarves deposited by worshippers, and the stunning Chuluut River Gorge. Along the way visit the museum in Tsetserleg, located in the former Zayiin Khuree Monastery, and examine the fascinating displays of authentic ethnographic and religious
objects. Cross the long wooden bridge leading to the Tsenkher Hot Springs, where water flows out of the ground at a scalding 89°C. Overnight in ger camp (B, L, D)

Day 5: Ugii Lake
After visiting a family of nomadic herders by the legendary Tamir River, spend the day at Ugii lake, popular among travelers for its outstanding bird watching and fishing opportunities. Overnight in ger camp (B, L, D)

Day 6: Khustai Nuruu National Park
Spend the day in the grassy valleys of Khustain Nuruu National Park, looking out for wild horses, wolves, and other rare wildlife species. Meet with Park Rangers and learn about the internationallyacclaimed project to reintroduce the Przewalskii Horse into the wild. Overnight in ger camp (B, L, D)

Day 7: Ulaanbaatar
Return to Ulaanbaatar. The remainder of the day is free for rest or shopping. In the evening, enjoy a performance of Mongolian folk arts. Dinner in restaurant and lodging in hotel (B, L, D)

Day 8: Departure
Private transfer from the hotel to Buyant-Ukhaa International Airport for your departure.