GOBI DESERT ADVENTURE

Arrive to Chinggis Khaan International airport and meet your local crew and transfer to the city center. Visit Chinggis Khaan Museum and Zaisan Hill where you have 360 degree view of the city. Check in to your local hotel. L,D

In the rocky labyrinths of Baga Gazryn Chuluu, you can see the petroglyphs left by hermit monks living here in the 19th century. And here there is an underground healing spring, the water of which, according to local residents, cures eye diseases and even blindness. A narrow hole was cut in the rock, giving access to healing water, and an ancient shamanistic sanctuary was built. Nearby are burial mounds of the mysterious Hunnu people who roamed the steppes and deserts from China to northern Mongolia. Animals here you can see the steppe wolf, Pallas, mountain goats, marmots, vultures, eagles, and hawks. 20 species of medicinal plants grow here.

Tsagaan Suvarga, translated as “White Stupa,” stands as a renowned landmark in the Gobi Desert. This natural wonder comprises striking mud cliffs, resembling stupas, ancient mound-like structures often holding relics. Exploring these cliffs presents opportunities for capturing breathtaking photographs amidst this unique landscape.

Following breakfast, you’ll venture to the Gobi Gurvan Saikhan National Park, the largest of its kind in Mongolia, aptly named “Three Beauties”. This expansive park encompasses numerous mountain ranges, a sand spit, and features Yolyn Am, also known as the “Lamb’s Fall”. Yolyn Am is characterized by towering cliffs formed by a powerful earthquake that cleaved the mountain, creating a breathtaking chasm. At the base of the dunes, a stream meanders through the landscape, occasionally forming deep gorges, adding to the park’s natural allure.

Following breakfast, your journey will take you southwest, traversing through mountainous terrain until you reach the captivating sands of Hongor, also known as Hongoryn Els. Nestled in the northern region of the Gobi Gurvan Saikhan National Park, these dunes border the Sevray and Zeelan mountains. The winds sweeping through the mountains emit a melodic harmony, audible from afar, which has earned these dunes the moniker “singing dunes of Hongor”. These majestic dunes, spanning two hundred meters, resonate with the enchanting symphony of nature, adding to their allure.

Following breakfast, your journey will lead you further southward to the renowned Gobi Desert. Your first encounter with this remarkable landscape begins at Bayanzag, also known as Ulaan Ereg or the Flaming Cliffs, named for the striking red hue of the sandstone formations. In addition to its visual splendor, Bayanzag holds historical significance, with human habitation dating back to ancient times. However, it gained international fame through paleontological discoveries, including vast collections of dinosaur bones, fossilized eggs, and ancient trees dating back approximately 65 million years.

After a satisfying lunch, your expedition will continue to Ongiin Hiid, or Ongi Monastery. As you journey onward, the landscape gradually transitions to a more arid terrain, indicative of the encroaching presence of the Gobi Desert. Ongi Monastery, established in the 18th century, once flourished as a center for spiritual and academic learning, housing over 1000 lamas and novices and boasting 28 distinct temples. The monastery provided education in philosophy, tantra, mathematics, and Tibetan medicine. However, during the socialist regime, it suffered near-complete destruction. Yet, remnants of its rich history endure, with local sands concealing sacred texts, sculptures, and other monastic artifacts awaiting discovery.

Today we have a full day drive while enjoying the scenery of endless Mongolian steppes and by the evening arrive back to Ulaanbaatar. Check in to your hotel and dinner

We’ll journey to Tsonjin Boldog to explore the imposing Chinggis Khan Statue Complex. Standing at an impressive height of 40 meters, this monument is not merely a statue; it’s a multifaceted structure. Inside, you’ll find a small museum offering insights into Mongolia’s 13th century history. You’ll also have the opportunity to don traditional Mongolian attire, marvel at a colossal boot, and ascend to the summit via steps that lead to the top of the horse’s head. and later afternoon we will journey towards Terelj National Park, our first stop will be at the iconic Turtle Rock, known locally as “Melkhii Khad.” This remarkable granitic formation stands at an impressive 24 meters (79 feet) tall, resembling the shape of a turtle. Previously named Mungut Khad, it’s a must-see spot for capturing memorable photographs. After a brief stop for photography, we’ll continue our drive to visit the Aryabal Meditation Center. Nestled amidst the hills of Terelj National Park, this Buddhist temple offers unparalleled views of the surrounding landscape. Following our visit, we’ll enjoy lunch and settle into traditional Ger (Yurt) camps. For those interested, optional activities for the evening include horse riding or camel riding, allowing for further exploration of the beautiful terrain.

After breakfast we drive back to Ulaanbaatar. And visit the biggest cashmere factory store in the heart of the city.

Drive to Chinggiss khan international airport where you can depart from Mongolia.