6 Days Central Mongolian Adventure With Hotspring
About this tour
Discover the ancient history, dramatic landscapes, and rich nomadic traditions of Central Mongolia on an unforgettable 6-day journey. Designed for nature lovers and cultural enthusiasts alike, this expedition brings together the best of Mongolia’s vast countryside into one complete experience—taking you from rolling sand dunes and dramatic basalt gorges to dormant volcanic craters and peaceful alpine lakes.
The true heart of this tour lies in its exceptional balance of rejuvenation and heritage. Unwind at the famous Tsagaan Sum Hot Springs, where you can soak in natural, mineral-rich thermal waters under the open sky surrounded by serene pine forests—the ultimate way to recharge after a day of exploration. Equally breathtaking is your journey through Kharkhorin, the legendary 13th-century capital of the Great Mongol Empire. Here, you will step back in time at Erdene Zuu Monastery, Mongolia’s oldest surviving Buddhist complex, to admire its 108 iconic stupas, sacred temple halls, ancient stone turtles, and vibrant spiritual atmosphere. Throughout the journey, stay in traditional ger camps and experience authentic nomadic hospitality firsthand for a truly immersive trip.
Day-by-day itinerary
Day 1: Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia to Elsen Tasarkhai, Högönö-Taranaiin-Hüree, Mongolia
On the first day, we will pick you up from your hotel in the capital city and head toward the Semi-Gobi. This is one of Mongolia's major dunes. In fact, in the 17th century, the initial foundation of the capital city, Ulaanbaatar, was established near these sand dunes. Although it is a sand dune region, it is unique for remaining consistently moist and rich in vegetation due to the influence of nearby rivers. Here, you will stay with a nomadic family, experience their daily way of life, and ride a camel. Total driving: 290km Meals: L, D Accommodation: Nomadic Family
Day 2: Elsen Tasarkhai, Högönö-Taranaiin-Hüree, Mongolia to Red Waterfall, Burgaasatayn Hiid, Mongolia
On this day, we will step into the Orkhon Valley National Park, an irreplaceable heritage of nomadic culture not only for Mongolia but for all of Central Asia. Since ancient times, the Orkhon Valley has served as the central hub for nomadic civilizations, leaving behind an endless array of cultural monuments, including ancient burial grounds, ruins of former capitals, and historic monasteries. We will visit and explore the Orkhon Waterfall, one of Mongolia's major waterfalls. You will also enjoy a scenic horseback ride through the beautiful, lush green steppe of the Orkhon Valley. Total driving: 180km Meals: B, L, D Accommodation: Nomadic Family / Ger Camp
Day 3: Red Waterfall, Burgaasatayn Hiid, Mongolia to Tsagaan Sum (The White Temple), Tsagaan, Mongolia
On this day, we will visit Tsagaan Sum Hot Springs, one of the extraordinary geothermal wonders of the Orkhon Valley. Ancient monks revered the healing powers of these thermal waters and built a temple on the site. The temple was named Tsagaan Sum (White Temple), though its operations were completely halted during the communist era. Today, along with the revival of the temple's activity, the hot springs have transformed into a favorite destination for travelers. These natural thermal springs provide the perfect sanctuary to unwind and recharge amidst your long journey across the countryside. If you wish, you can also hike to the source of the spring to taste the mineral water, which is traditionally known to benefit the heart and digestive system. Total driving: 55km Meals: B, L, D Accommodation: Ger Camp
Day 4: Tsagaan Sum (The White Temple), Tsagaan, Mongolia to Terkhiin Tsagaan Lake, Mongolia
After relaxing and unwinding at the hot springs, we will head toward Khorgo-Terkhiin Tsagaan Nuur National Park. The prevalence of geothermal hot springs across Central Mongolia is closely tied to ancient volcanic activity in the region. Among these volcanoes, Khorgo Volcano is the largest, having last erupted roughly 9,000 to 11,000 years ago; it is currently an extinct volcano. During that ancient eruption, hot lava accumulated across the nearby valley to form a volcanic ridge, damming the natural flow of local rivers and giving rise to one of Mongolia's major bodies of water, Terkhiin Tsagaan Lake (White Lake). Furthermore, as the molten lava flowed eastward, it created the dramatic geological conditions that formed the Chuluut River basin. On this day, you will explore the stunning Chuluut River Canyon, hike up to the crater rim of Khorgo Volcano, and enjoy swimming in the tranquil waters of White Lake. Total driving: 280km Meals: B, L, D Accommodation: Ger Camp
Day 5: Terkhiin Tsagaan Lake, Mongolia to Kharkhorin, Mongolia
Finally, the time has come to explore Kharkhorin, the ancient capital city. Although Genghis Khan issued the decree to establish the city in 1220, construction was not completed during his lifetime. It was later fully finished by his son, Ogodei Khan, in 1236. Despite being completely destroyed in 1388 by the forces of the Ming dynasty, Mongolians repeatedly attempted to restore the city over the centuries. In 1579, Abtai Sain Khan established the Erdene Zuu Monastery upon the advice of the Dalai Lama, breathing new life into Karakorum once again. To this day, the monastery is considered a sacred holy site for Buddhists not only in Mongolia but around the world, and its cultural treasures are classified as priceless heritage. On this day, you will visit the Kharkhorin Museum and marvel at the rare, priceless artifacts of the Erdene Zuu Monastery. Total driving: 300km Meals: B, L, D Accommodation: Ger Camp
Day 6: Kharkhorin, Mongolia to Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia
On the final day, after this unforgettable journey through the heart of Central Mongolia, we will drive back to the capital city, Ulaanbaatar, bringing our adventure to a wonderful close. Total driving: 390km Meals: B, L
What's included
- Travel insurance - Alcoholic Beverages
Languages spoken
Route & locations
Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia to Elsen Tasarkhai, Högönö-Taranaiin-Hüree, Mongolia