The Magical Khangai Region Tour
About this tour
Embark on an adventure through Central Mongolia's Khangai Region, where you'll encounter the supernatural allure of the Orkhon Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the pristine landscapes of the Khorgo-Terkh National Park. Engage deeply with the region's culture by staying with nomadic families, experiencing thrilling horseback rides, and rejuvenating at the tranquil Tsenkher Hot Springs. Enrich your journey with a visit to the historic capital city of the Mongol Empire.
Day-by-day itinerary
Day 1: Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia to Kharkhorin, Mongolia
We commence the tour with an early morning pick-up service in Ulaanbaatar, followed by a brief stop at a supermarket to gather supplies for the journey. Today's destination is Kharkhorin, renowned as the ancient capital of the illustrious Mongolian Empire, spanning a travel distance of 365 km. Around 13:00, we'll pause for lunch at a local restaurant. We are expected to arrive at our destination later in the afternoon. Our tour highlights include visits to the Erdenezuu Monastery and the Kharkhorin Museum. Depending on our arrival time, we may split these visits between days 1 and 2. Dinner will be served between 19:00 and 20:00, followed by an overnight stay at a guesthouse.
Day 2: Kharkhorin, Mongolia to Ulaan-Tsutgalan, Bat-Ulzii, Mongolia
On Day 2, our journey begins with a hearty breakfast in Kharkhorin. As previously mentioned, we'll likely dedicate separate days to exploring the Erdenezuu Monastery, Mongolia's oldest surviving Buddhist monastery, and the Kharkhorin Museum, offering profound insights into Mongolian history and the significance of our current location. Therefore, our morning will still be dedicated to discovering Kharkhorin's treasures. Following this, we venture deeper into the Orkhon Valley, covering approximately 180 km. Our tour team will guide us through the picturesque forested hills of the Orkhon Valley, showcasing Uurt Gorge, volcanic formations, flowing rivers, and the vibrant wildlife including yaks, horses, and other animals. Lunch will be served at 13:00, and we anticipate reaching our destination in the late afternoon. Alongside the natural splendor and exciting activities in the Orkhon Valley, a highlight of our tour is the cultural immersion with nomadic families. This time, we'll be welcomed by the hospitable Tumursukh family, offering a glimpse into the daily life of a young Mongolian family on the steppe, including insights into their upbringing, lifestyle, heritage, culture, and cuisine. Dinner is scheduled for 19:00-20:00, followed by an overnight stay in a traditional guest ger.
Day 3: Ulaan-Tsutgalan, Bat-Ulzii, Mongolia to Orkhon Waterfall, Burgaasatayn Hiid, Mongolia
There's a famous saying that goes, "The Mongolian Empire was built on horseback." Horses have always been and continue to be integral to Mongolian tradition and culture. Therefore, it's almost essential to experience horseback riding in the Mongolian steppe when visiting the country, wouldn't you agree? Today and tomorrow, our tour team will immerse themselves in the breathtaking Orkhon landscape, riding horses in search of that incomparable feeling of freedom and the deep connection between nature, animals, and humans. This experience may evoke the same emotions that Mongolian warriors once felt, perhaps even tapping into the source of Mongolian pride. The team will ride horses from the Tumursukh family to another family located in the Buureg region, with approximately 4 hours of riding time. Meals will be served according to our usual schedule, and we'll spend the night in a guest ger.
Day 4: Orkhon Waterfall, Burgaasatayn Hiid, Mongolia
Afterward, we return to Tumursukh's family on horseback for our last stay in the Orkhon region. During this time, we'll explore the captivating Ulaantsutgalan and Orkhon waterfalls. Meals will be served as per our regular schedule.
Day 5: Orkhon Waterfall, Burgaasatayn Hiid, Mongolia to Tsenkher hot springs, Tavanbulag, Mongolia
After bidding farewell to the gracious family who hosted us for the past few days, we journey to the Tsenkher Hot Springs, located approximately 110 km away. What better remedy could there be after a few days of horseback riding than indulging in a relaxing soak in the hot spa?
Day 6: Tsenkher hot springs, Tavanbulag, Mongolia to Terkhiin Tsagaan Lake, Mongolia
Today, our journey takes us north to the Khorgo-Terkh National Park. Along the way, the team will make a stop at Tsetserleg, the provincial center of the Arkhangai region, to stock up on supplies. While we've spent the last few days exploring the southern side of the Khangai Mountain range, this time we'll venture to the northern side, where the altitude is much higher. Covering a travel distance of 210 km, we'll visit the Chuluut Canyon en route to the Khorgo-Terkh National Park. Within the park, the main attractions are the Khorgo crater and the Terkhiin Tsagaan Nuur, also known as the Great White Lake. We'll be staying near this freshwater lake, which stretches 16 km in length and 5 km in width. Overnight accommodation will be provided in a guest ger.
Day 7: Terkhiin Tsagaan Lake, Mongolia
Today, we won't be embarking on any long drives. Instead, after breakfast, we'll set out on a hike to the Khorgo crater. Formed by a volcanic explosion 8000 years ago, Khorgo sits at an elevation of 2210m above sea level. Legend has it that in ancient times, brave individuals would seek refuge in the crater after standing up against corrupt aristocrats to help the impoverished. Hence, the crater was named Khorgo, which means "to hide" or "to sneak". With a depth of approximately 90m and a diameter ranging from 200 to 250m, the crater holds both geological marvels and historical intrigue. After lunch, you'll have the entire afternoon to enjoy leisure time. Whether you prefer swimming, taking a stroll, or further exploring the region through hiking, the choice is yours. Overnight accommodation will be provided in a guest ger.
Day 8: Terkhiin Tsagaan Lake, Mongolia to Elsen Tasarkhai, Högönö-Taranaiin-Hüree, Mongolia
The team will drive to Khogno-Tarni Natural Reserve, also known as Elsentasarkhai or the Mini-Gobi. We'll have lunch as we pass through Kharkhorin city. This reserve is truly enchanting, boasting sand dunes, trees, rivers, granite rock mountains, and grasslands all in one place. During our time here, you'll have the opportunity to ride camels and experience the unique landscape up close. We'll also stay overnight with a local nomadic family, immersing ourselves in their traditional way of life.
Day 9: Elsen Tasarkhai, Högönö-Taranaiin-Hüree, Mongolia to Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia
As the final day of our tour arrives, the team will make their way back to Ulaanbaatar. Covering a total distance of 270 km, we'll stop for lunch near Lun town along the route. Upon reaching Ulaanbaatar, the team will be transported to their respective hotels or hostels. This marks the end of our memorable journey together!
What's included
Alcoholic beverage
What to know
This tour can be customized. Please get in touch with me.
Route & locations
Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia to Kharkhorin, Mongolia