Let's Travel Mongolia Season 2015-16 by Let's Travel Mongolia

Let’s Travel company founded in 2006, we are now recognized as one of the Mongolian leading tour operators providing high quality services for all the various aspects of travel as charters, packaged vacations, leisure travel, group and also specializing incentive travel, FIT travel, and specializing in corporate travel. We are the most trustworthy and reliable travel company offer excellent values to our customers to explore the best of Mongolia.

Our services: Exclusive package tours Join in tours FIT tours Tailor made tours

ABOUT US

Incentive tours Organizing events / Meeting / Conference

WHY TRAVEL WITH US WE ARE EXPERTS

WE OFFER THE BEST OF BESTS

Our team Let’s Travel specialists have spent over decades in travel industry and our knowledge of Mongolian tourism is unrivaled. We are experienced, opinionated, and highly responsible team for all our tours and costumers.

We carefully select our hotels, outfitters, and English (other languages) speaking local our guides to make sure that they represent the best of what local culture has to offer.

RESPONSIBLE TRAVEL

VARIETY OF DESTINATIONS AND ITINERARIES

Apart from introducing Mongolia to the world through ecologyconscious tourism, Let’s Travel aims to make the living better not only for the staff, but the community in whole.

Every customer is special for us, therefore every tour can be adjusted to meet the needs of our customers. Tour start and end dates are adjustable, also our expert travel assistants’ ideas can be used to enrich and create a unique travel itinerary just for you.

VALUE GUARANTEE

RELIABLE

We guarantee the best value for our tours, as we proudly announce that there will be no trip featuring the same destinations, services, and hotels at a lower price. If such case is found, we will to refund the price difference to you after confirmation.

Safety is one of the most important features of our tours. Thus the tourists in Mongolia have 24/7 support during their trip, including 24 hour emergency hot-line.

What makes us unique and preferable? We are the most professional team who are aiming to create and deliver unforgettable tour experiences to our customers.

We are a team of professionals targeting to provide unforgettable tour experiences to the travelers, and build excellent partnerships with travel agencies around the world for their Mongolian tours. We carry every task with attention to detail because we love what we do and we are absolutely good at it. Our sense of responsibility is firmly strong. Choose us to be your partner in Mongolia, and leave the rest to us. You will return happy with the thoughts of your next travel.

OUR TEAM

General Director

General Manager of Inbound Department

Sales Manager of Inbound Department

Sales Manager of Chinese language market

Sales manager of Korean market

Operations Manager of Inbound department

Sales Manager of Outbound department

Marketing Manager

Amgalanbat Sundui

Tsolmon Byambadorj

Tsengel Davaa

Eku Ganbat

Zaya Sukhbaatar

Badmaa Batsaikhan

Tergel Ganchimeg

Purevdalai Battulga

OUR TOUR BUS RENTAL SUBSIDIARY COMPANY USUKHBASE: 45 seated coach/Hyundai Aerospace

24 seated coach/Hyundai County

14 seated minivan/Ford Transit

8 seated minivan/ Hyundai Starex

Toyota Prius Hybird Sedan

Toyota Land Cruiser 4WD

INBOUND TOURS Ancient city Karakorum tour ( Erdene-Zuu Monastery tours, Natural Hot spring Tsenher tour, Orkhon valley/UlaanTsutgalan waterfall, Lake Ugii bird watching tour ) Train tours ( Zamiin-Uud border city tour, Hamariin Hiid Temple/ Shand meditation tour, Capital city of Republic of Buryatia Ulan-Ude tour, Chinese border city Erlian tour ) Trans-Siberian tours (Beijing to Irkutsk via Ulaanbaatar, Irkutsk to Beijing via Ulaanbaatar ) and many other tours we we operate.

Ulaanbaatar city tours Terelj National Park ( day tour, overnight tours, horse trekking tours, hiking, bird watching tour, Chinggis Khan statue Complex tours, 13th Century Park tours) Hustai Nature Reserve sightseeing tour ( day tour, overnight tours, bird watching tour, nomad lifestyle experiencing tours etc., ) South Gobi tours available by air and by land ( overnight tours, camel trekking tours, photo safari tours, bird watching tours, meditation tours ) Lake Khuvsgul tours available by air and land ( overnight tours, horse trekking tours, photo safari tours, tsaatan ethnic group lifestyle experience tours, fishing tours )

CITY CENTER HOTEL INFORMATION

Best Western Premier Tuushin Hotel

Kempinski Khan Palace Hotel

Shangri-La Hotel

Terelj Hotel

Blue Sky Hotel

Chinggis Khaan Hotel

Ramada Hotel Ulaanbaatar City Center

Sunjin Grand Hotel

Bayangol Hotel

Grand Hill Hotel

Flower Hotel

White House Hotel

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TOURIST GER CAMP INFORMATION

Khan Terelj Tourist Camp

Bumban Tour Tourist Camp

Ayanchin Lodge Tourist Camp

Khustai Nature Reserve Tourist Camp

Gobi Erdene Camp

Baga Gazryn Chuluu Camp

Bayangobi Tourist Camp

Munkhtenger Camp

Lake Huvsgul Shoreline Camp

Tsenher Hot Spring Camp

Bulgan Province Uran Togoo Area Camps

Khentii Province Area Camps

BEST RESTAURANTS OF ULAANBAATAR CITY

BD’s Mongolian Barbecue

The Bull Hot Pot Restaurant

Modern Nomads Mongolian Restaurant

Shangri-La Hotel Park Café

Golden Barrel Russian Restaurant

Jade - Chinese Buffet Restaurant

Veranda Italian Restaurant

Mirage European Restaurant

Irish Pub Restaurant

MexiKhan Mexican Restaurant

California Restaurant

Monet Sky Lounge Restaurant

ABOUT MONGOLIA GEOGRAPHY:

LANGUAGE:

Mongolia is an adventure destination where travelers can see the traditions of the past still practiced today by hardy nomads dwelling on the country’s vast steppes and deserts. At 1,564,116 square kilometers (603,909 sq mi), Mongolia is the 19th largest and the most sparsely populated independent country in the world, with a population of around 3.0 million people. It is also the world’s second-largest landlocked country after Kazakhstan. The country contains very little arable land, as much of its area is covered by steppe, with mountains to the north and west and the Gobi Desert to the south.

The official language of Mongolia is Mongolian, and is spoken by 95% of the population. In the west of the country, Kazakh and Tuvan both Turkic languages are also spoken. Today, English is the most frequently spoken foreign language in Mongolia. CULTURE: Before the 20th century, most works of the fine arts in Mongolia had a religious function, and therefore Mongolian fine arts were heavily influenced by religious texts. Thangkas were usually painted or made in applique technique. Bronze sculptures usually showed Buddhist deities. A number of great works are attributed to the first Jebtsundamba Khutuktu, Zanabazar. The music of Mongolia is strongly influenced by nature, nomadism, shamanism, and also Tibetan Buddhism. The traditional music includes a variety of instruments, famously the morinkhuur (horse head fiddle), and also the singing styles like the urtynduu (long song), and throat-singing (khoomei). The “tsam” is danced to keep away evil spirits and it is seen as the reminiscence of shamanism.

ETHNIC: Approximately 30% of the population are nomadic or semi-nomadic. The predominant religion in Mongolia is Tibetan Buddhism. Islam is the dominant religion among ethnic Kazakhs. The majority of the state’s citizens are of Mongol ethnicity, although Kazakhs, Tuvans, and other minorities also live in the country, especially in the west. Religion: Mongolians aged 15 and above 53% are Buddhist, 3% Islam, 2,9% Shamanist, and 2,1% Christianity. Mongolian shamanism is widely practiced throughout Mongolia now.

CITY OF ULAANBAATAR THE CAPITAL CITY ULAANBAATAR (OR ULAN BATOR) IS THE LARGEST CITY IN THE COUNTRY WITH 1.3 MILLION RESIDENTS. IT IS BY ALL MEANS THE HEART OF THE COUNTRY, ON TOP OF BEING CULTURAL, ECONOMIC AND INDUSTRIAL CENTRE, IT IS LOCATED IN THE EASTERN CENTER OF THE COUNTRY LANDSCAPE, BY THE TUUL RIVER VALLEY AND BOGD KHAN MOUNTAIN ON ITS SOUTH.

NATIONAL MUSEUM OF MONGOLIA

CHINGGIS KHAAN SQUARE

If one wants to get to know about a nation’s history and its culture, they must surely visit where everything that is of historical importance is exhibited together. By visiting National museum, one can walk through the halls and travel through time from Paleolithic age into Modern Mongolia.

The central square of the city, formerly called Sukhbaatar square is located in front of the Government Palace. The square is a place where national military parade and reception of visiting foreign political leaders takes place, as well as public celebration of New Year’s Eve adorned with ice sculptures, Children’s day on 1st of June, concerts during national Naadam festival, Deeltei Mongol (Mongolia in Deel) festival as part of Naadam, and other occasional concerts.

GANDAN (GANDANTEGCHENLIN) MONASTERY

Surviving the communist purge in 1930’s, Gandantegchenlin monastery is now an active monastery complex which has six temples (datsan) and it is an official headquarter of Mongolian Buddhist organizations. The main monastery holds its services usually around 10 o’clock every morning.

ZAISAN HILL MEMORIAL

On top of the Zaisan hill located south of the city over the Zaisan Bridge, stands a memorial monument that honors Soviet and Mongolian soldiers who fought in WWII.

NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM

The Natural History Museum collections consist of geographical, geological, botanical, fauna, and paleontology sections. Part of its exhibition, particularly dinosaur skeletons, dated from 220 to 270 million years ago are all permanently placed in a newly established Central Museum of Mongolian Dinosaurs near the Independence square.

THE ZANABAZAR MUSEUM OF FINE ARTS

The museum is named after the first Bogd Gegeen Zanabazar, Mongolian religious leader whose contribution to development of Mongolian fine arts is considered invaluable. Although not very big in size, the museum exhibits around 20,000 objects in its permanent collection that shows Mongolian art from pre-history through the early twentieth century.

BOGD KHAAN WINTER PALACE MUSEUM

Bogd Khaan’s Winter Palace Winter Palace is the only remaining one of the original four residences of eighth Bogd Jebtsundamba who was the last religious leader of Mongolia of Tibetan Buddhism. Built between 1893 and 1903, it accommodated eighth Bogd Gegeen until his death in 1924, and became a museum later in 1961.

MUSEUM OF ULAANBAATAR

Whole history of the city, from the time it has been Undur Gegeen Zanabazar’s residential place up until today through two national political revolutions, the museum showcases authentic old maps, photographs, carvings and maquette to tell the story.

THE CHOIJIN LAMA MONASTERY MUSEUM

MONGOLIAN MILITARY MUSEUM

The museum showcases about 9,000 objects related to army histories of the states that were dwelling in the territory of Mongolia, dating from Bronze Age to present day.

Just south to the Chinggis Khaan square, one of the best preserved monasteries of the country lies with its gate facing south. It is more of a museum than an active monastery. Complex of temples built between 1904 and 1908 are dedicated for Choijin Lam who was the state Oracle and younger brother of the eighth Bogd Gegeen Jebtsundamba.

MONGOL COSTUMES MUSEUM

This is a private museum which has generous collection of Mongolian traditional ethnic costumes, ornaments, everyday utensils, and equipment - through the time span.

Trans Siberian Tour via Ulaanbaatar

BEAUTY OF THE NATIONAL PARK Destination: Terelj National Park and Ulaanbaatar Durations: 3 days 2 nights Availability: All year around Highlights: High Mesozoic granite cliffs, sculpted into unique formations by wind, frost and rain erosion, loom over fertile valleys. All differently shaped and formed rocks are true gifts from the Mother Nature to us.

DAY 1. ARRIVAL IN ULAANBAATAR

Arrive in Ulaanbaatar. Meet your preferred language speaking tour guide. Have a lunch and explore city tour including Chinggis Khan Monument on the Chinggis Khan square and the Museum of National History. Dinner at local restaurant. Overnight in the hotel. (L, D)

DAY 2. CHINGGIS STATUE COMPLEX / TERELJ NATIONAL PARK

Buffet breakfast in the hotel. Drive to Terelj National Park (70 km northeast of Ulaanbaatar). On the way explore the world’s biggest Chinggis Khaan statue complex. Here you can see wide steppe with panoramic view from the head of Chinggis Khan’s horse. After exploration continue driving to Terelj National Park and enjoy the tour in Terelj. Experience horseback riding with protection equipment for an hour. Then we will visit Mongolian nomadic family to explore their lifestyle. After lunch hiking to Aryabal Temple it will take around 1 hour hiking in the nature. Aryabal Temple is one of the significant temple of ancient Tibetan buddhist design which is famous as its Manchu Princess story tale. Stay overnight at the camp. (B, L, D)

DAY 3. ULAANBAATAR

In the morning drive back to Ulaanbaatar city. After lunch in city enjoy city tour of Ulaanbaatar takes you through some of the principal sights of this unique city. Visit the Gandan Monastery, housing a 26 meter high gilded statue of the Avalokiteshvara. Your tour also takes you to the Bogd Khaan’s Winter Palace Museum, Zaisan Hill and Buddha Park and shopping at the Cashmere shop. After lunch in the city centre transfer to Ulaanbaatar railway station for your international departure. (B)

DESCRIPTION OF ATTRACTIONS AND DESTINATIONS:

TSONJIN BOLDOG-CHINGGIS KHAAN STATUE COMPLEX:

Chinggis Khan Statue Complex is a 40 meter (131 ft 3 in) tall statue of Genghis Khan on horseback, on the bank of the Tuul River at Tsonjin Boldog (54 km (33.55 mi) east of the Mongolian capital Ulaanbaatar), where according to legend, he found a golden whip. The statue is symbolically pointed east towards his birthplace. It is on top of the Genghis Khan Statue Complex, a visitor center, itself 10 meters (32 ft 10 in) tall, with 36 columns representing the 36 khans from Chinggis to Ligdan Khan. It was designed by sculptor D. Erdenebileg and architect J. Enkhjargal and erected in 2008. Visitors walk to the head of the horse through its chest and neck of the horse, where they can have a panoramic view. The main statue area will be surrounded by 200 Ger, yurt camps, designed and arranged like the pattern of the horse brand marks that were used by the 13th century Mongol tribes. The attached museum has exhibitions relating to the Bronze Age and Xiongnu archaeological cultures in Mongolia, which show everyday utensils, belt buckles, knives, sacred animals, etc.,

DESCRIPTION OF ATTRACTIONS AND DESTINATIONS:

TERELJ NATIONAL PARK:

Terelj National Park is one of the most beautiful national parks of Mongolia. The Terelj tourist zone has a number of “tourist camps”. It is 37 km from Ulan Bator city center. The Terelj settlement is located in the valley of the Terelj River approximately 66 km from the Ulaanbaatar city center. The national park tourist zone is formally in Nalaikh district part of Ulaanbaatar municipality, the rest of the protected zone beginning to the north of the Terelj River, is located in Mongolia’s Tuv Province. The park has many rock formations for rock climbers, and includes two famous formations named after things they resemble: Turtle Rock and the Old Man Reading a Book, Praying Lama Rock.

Best of Mongolia Tour

CHINGGIS KHAN’S TRAILS Destination: Middle Gobi, South Gobi, Ongy Monastery, Karakorum Ancient

Availability: May to September

city, Tsenher Hot Springs, Lake Terhiin Tsagaan, Extinct Volcano Khorgo

Highlights: Mongolian most beautiful landscapes South Gobi desert and

and Uran, and Lake Khuvsgul

the one of world’s biggest crystal clear water Lake Khuvsgul.

Durations: 15 days 14 nights

DAY 1. ARRIVAL

Upon your arrival in Ulaanbaatar, your preferred language speaking guide will warmly welcome you, and check-in to your preferred hotel (*** to *****) for the overnight rest. According to the schedule of arrival, lunch and dinner at a local restaurant, also half day city tour is available.

DAY 2. MIDDLE GOBI (220 KM)

Your driver and professional guide will pick you up at the hotel lobby. And begin your journey to Baga Gazriin Chuluu, a unique formation of rocks. Visit ruins of an ancient temple and explore the area. Lunch is on the way. Have a dinner and overnight in a ger camp. (L/D)

DAY 3. TSAGAAN SUVARGA (200 KM)

Drive to Tsagaan Suvarga and stay overnight at the camp. (B/L/D)

DAY 9. TSENKHER HOT SPRINGS (120KM)

Drive to the Tsenkher hot springs. Spend the day relaxing in natural hot springs and walking in the surrounding forest. Please do not forget to pack your swimsuit for this day. Your may have a small hike to a mountain top, a stunning view will await you there. Optional massage and beauty services are available. Enjoy the hot springs again after dinner. Lunch, dinner and overnight in a ger camp. (B/L/D)

DAY 10. KHORGO EXTINCT VOLCANO LAKE TERKHIIN TSAGAAN (340 KM)

Drive to Khorgo dead volcano and Lake Terhiin Tsagaan in Arkhangai province. The camp is located on the shores of lake. Enjoy the magnificent view of the extinct volcano and countless water fowls will be at your footsteps. Stay overnight in a ger camp. (B/L/D)

DAY 11. KHUVSGUL LAKE (570 KM)

DAY 4. YOLIIN AM – THE VULTURE VALLEY (275 KM)

Drive further south. Arrive at the Three Beauties of the Gobi National Park. Spend the day on an excursion to Yoliin Am (Vulture Valley) for hiking and stunning photograph opportunities. Lunch, dinner and overnight in a ger camp. (B/L/D)

DAY 5. KHONGOR SAND DUNES (200 KM)

After breakfast drive to Khongor sand dunes known as Singing Dunes. A climb up to the sand dunes will be rewarded with a breath taking view. In the evening observe a spectacular sunset, please prepare your cameras. Lunch, dinner and overnight in a ger camp. (B/L/D)

DAY 6. BAYANZAG (150KM)

Drive to the world famous Flaming Cliffs and Bayanzag (forest of the Gobi). Discover the area of the first paleontological finding in Mongolia by following footsteps of Roy Chapman Andrews. Visit a nomadic camel breeding family and experience hospitality of nomads. Enjoy a short camel ride. Lunch, dinner and overnight in a ger camp. (B/L/D)

DAY 7. ONGYN KHIID (150KM)

After breakfast drive to north. Visit the ruins of Ongy Monastery and have a walk in the surrounding area. Dinner and overnight in a ger camp. (B/L/D)

DAY 8. KARAKORUM (300KM)

After breakfast drive to Karakorum, the 13th century capital of the Mongol Empire. Visit Erdene-Zuu Monastery, which was once one of the largest monasteries in Mongolia, and then was mostly destroyed in the 1930s. Tour the monastery grounds and visit several chapels with excellent examples of Buddhist iconography dating from the 16th century. Visit the symbolic ruins of Karakorum. In the evening try a Mongolian archery game. Dinner and overnight in a ger camp. (B/L/D)

Have a buffet breakfast at the hotel and fly over to Murun, capital of Khuvsgul province. There the driver will pick you up and get you to the Khuvsgul lake. After lunch at a camp you are staying, there are opportunities to sail by boat or ferry, ride a horse, go fishing, hiking and photographing. Dinner and overnight in a camp. (B/L/D)

DAY 12. KHUVSGUL LAKE

Early in the morning, a walk by the lakeshore is highly recommended. Usually the mist takes off from water by sunrise, when you get a chance to see the beautiful mystical environment. After breakfast, visit a reindeer herder’s family and learn about their distinct culture and lifestyle. Optional rafting and kayaking activities are available. Dinner and overnight in a ger camp. (B/L/D)

DAY 13. URAN TOGOO EXTINCT VOLCANO (300 KM)

After breakfast drive to Uran Togoo, an extinct volcano in Bulgan province. You will have a scenic drive with endless green pastures and deep blue sky. Dinner and overnight stay in a ger camp. (B/L/D)

DAY 14. ULAANBAATAR (410 KM)

After breakfast drive back to Ulaanbaatar and arrive by evening. After dinner, settle at your hotel for rest and preparation for your international departure of next day. (B/L/D)

DAY 15. DEPARTURE

Buffet breakfast at the hotel, and transfer to your international departure point. Before the time you leave, shop at local cashmere and goods stores. (B)

SOUTH GOBI

Mongolians consider that there are 33 different Gobi, where sandy desert occupies only 3 percent of the total territory. The area is often imagined as a lifeless desert like in many other parts of the world. Gobi Desert is a land of dinosaurs and it is the home for camel breeders rich with wildlife and vegetation.

BAYANZAG FLAMING CLIFFS

Bayanzag (Rich Saxual) is one of the most beautiful places among the 33 Gobies of Mongolia where travelers can see pre-historical rock paintings, caves where monks have made meditations and ruins of ancient temples and villages. The area is most famous for yielding the first discovery of dinosaur eggs.

KHONGOR SAND DUNES

Called Khongoryn Els (Khongor’s sand) in Mongolian, the country’s largest sand dune continuing about 20 km in width and 100 km in length, reaching 800 meters in its highest areas, is located in Sevrei soum of Omnogobi province.

YOL VALLEY

Yoliin Am is a deep and narrow gorge in the Gurvan Saikhan Mountains. It is wide at entrance and narrows progressively into a gorge that contains ice through most times of the year. It is an interesting and beautiful place to visit during summer.

LAKE KHUVSGUL

Khuvsgul Lake is located in the northwest of Mongolia. Being one of the biggest lakes, it is 136 km long and 262m deep, and elevated 1,645 meters above sea level. It is the second-most voluminous freshwater lake in Asia, only second to Lake Baikal, and holds around 70% of Mongolia’s and 0.4% of the world’s fresh water. Town of Hatgal is located in the lake’s southern end and Khankh in the northern shore. These lovely small towns buzz with local and international tourists during the summer months, and go about their peaceful life in other seasons.

KHORGO EXTINCT VOLCANO

The volcano was active around 9000 years ago, and it is considered to have been the last active volcano in Mongolian territory. When it exploded, its lava flown 100km to Tariat river and Chuluut river banks in 20-30km width. The crater diameter is 200m and its depth is approximately 100m, with 50 degree descent.

TSAATAN ETHNIC GROUP

In the northern sides of the Khuvsgul province, “Dukha people” – called “Tsaatan” in Mongolian, meaning “one who owns reindeers” reside. They have preserved their endangered native Dukhan language and the rich cultural traditions up until today. Tsaatan live in their wooden tents even in the coldest winter weather, and move from one place to another in a nomadic way for the best grazing opportunity for their reindeers.

Trans-Siberian

ADVENTURE to GOBI Destination: Ulaanbaatar, Irkutsk, Baikal Lake, Gobi Desert

Highlights: Ulaanbaatar, Irkutsk, Listviyanka village, Baikal Lake, Terelj

Durations:13 days, 12 nights

National Park, Yoliin am – The Vulture Valley, Khongor - Singing sand

Availability: Middle of May until the end of September

dunes, Flaming Cliffs, Bayanzag

DAY 1. ARRIVAL

DAY 9.TERELJ

Upon your arrival in Ulaanbaatar, your preferred language speaking guide will warmly welcome you, and transfer to your preferred hotel.

DAY 2. ULAANBAATAR

After buffet breakfast at the hotel, the traveling party go sightseeing the top attractions of Ulaanbaatar, including Gandan Monastery, Zaisan Hill, Chinggis square, and Bogd Khaan palace museum. A cultural folk concert is also the highlight of the day. After dinner at a local restaurant, depart by train to Russia, heading Irkutsk.

DAY 3. TRAIN COACH

After breakfast at the hotel, drive to Terelj National Park (70 km northeast of Ulaanbaatar), spend the day touring the area and enjoying the magnificent alpine scenery. Visit to local nomadic herder’s family, and top attractions including the Chinggis Khaan Statue Complex – biggest equestrian statue in the world, the Turtle rock, and Aryabal temple are the highlights of this day. Lunch and dinner and is at ger camp, highlighting Mongolian traditional food. Overnight stay is at the hotel back in Ulaanbaatar. (B/L/D)

DAY 10. VULTURE VALLEY (YOLIIN AM), AND KHONGORIIN ELS – SINGING SAND DUNES (50 KM, 200 KM)

On the second day of your railway travel, you arrive in Irkutsk around noon, and you will be picked up by the local guide. Then have city tour around Irkutsk. Dinner is at a local restaurant. After this go to your hotel, and have rest, enjoy your free time.

After breakfast, take a domestic flight to South Gobi province with your guide. The driver will pick you up from Dalanzadgad airport and start journey to Gobi Gurvan Saikhan (Three Beauties of the Gobi) National Park. An excursion to Yol Valley is a good trekking that gives you stunning photographic opportunities. After lunch at the camp, you’ll leave to the “Khongoriin els” known as the Singing Dunes. Climb up to sand dunes will reward you with a breathtaking panoramic view, then visit Seruun Bulag – water spring, and Khongor river. In the evening, observe the famous Gobi sunset. Lunch, dinner and overnight in a ger camp. (B/L/D)

DAY 5. IRKUTSK

DAY 12. FLAMING CLIFFS AND BAYANZAG (160 KM)

By regional regular train, the 3rd day of travel is spent in a comfortable sleeping coach where you can look at the authentic Mongolian and Russian rather humble countryside.

DAY 4. IRKUTSK

After breakfast at the hotel, you have a whole day trip including Circum-Baikal Railway where you will have a meal in the train coach. Then dinner is at a local restaurant in Irkutsk. After that, the party goes to Listvianka village to explore the sights and settle to hotel there, and have overnight rest.

DAY 6. IRKUTSK

Today is dedicated for Listvianka trip, following the breakfast. You will visit Talsy museum and Baikal museum to get to know more about the culture, and have lunch in local restaurant. After dinner, a climb to the Chersky Peak is available to you. Have dinner at a local restaurant, and then go back to the hotel for overnight rest.

DAY 7. IRKUTSK

Have breakfast, this go to Olhon Island. On the way to Olhon have lunch in the local restaurant. Arrive in the island, settle in hotel. Have free time and rest.

DAY 8. IRKUTSK

Have breakfast in hotel, enjoy a short free time and retreat back to Irkutsk, have lunch in local restaurant. Arrive in Irkutsk and have city tour. Visit churches, monuments, etc., then have dinner in a local restaurant and go to the airport for international departure. Just before midnight you arrive in Ulaanbaatar. Your guide will meet you at the airport and transfer you to the hotel.

After breakfast, drive to the world famous Flaming Cliffs and Bayanzag (sax forest). After lunch in a camp, discover the dreamlike area where first paleontological finding in Mongolia was found, by following the footsteps of American explorer Roy Chapman Andrews. Visit a nomadic camel breeding family and experience hospitality of the nomads. Enjoy a short camel ride and see how true is the local’s saying, “The sun is nearer from the back of a camel”. Bayanzag sax forest is also admired for its beautiful appearance during sunset. Lunch, dinner and overnight in a ger camp. (B/L/D)

DAY 13. DEPARTURE

Buffet breakfast at the hotel, and then transfer to your international departure point. Before the time you leave, shopping at local cashmere and goods stores is possible. (B)

KHONGOR SAND DUNES Called Khongoryn Els (Khongor’s sand) in Mongolian, the country’s largest sand dune continuing about 20 km in width and 100 km in length, reaching 800 meters in its highest areas, is located in Sevrei soum of Omnogobi province. The sand dunes change its color each hour of the day, from yellow to silver from dawn to dusk. The dunes make sound like plane engine in a windy day so it is also called “Singing Dunes”. The Khongor River flows along the sand dunes and form oases nearby.

“YOLIIN AM” - VULTURE VALLEY Yoliin Am is a deep and narrow gorge in the GurvanSaikhan Mountains. It is wide at entrance and narrows progressively into a gorge that contains ice through most times of the year. It is an interesting and beautiful place to visit during summer. Gobi Gurvansaikhan Mountains are three rocky hills, the highest of which is 2815 meters above the sea level. The Yoliin Am was declared protected site in 1965, located 62 kilometers northwest of Dalanzadgad, in the center of South Gobi province. The gorge was created from continuous water erosion, so it is filled with ice which melts around September. Until recently, the ice remained intact even in the years with hottest summers, but now the global warming seems to have its effect. The road following the canyon into the high rock walls has breath taking dramatic scenery, so it is by no doubt one of the most beautiful places in the country.

Orkhon Valley

CULTURAL TOUR Destination: Ulaanbaatar, Karakorum, Orkhon Valley, Ugii Lake

Highlights: Ulaanbaatar, Hustai Nature Reserve, Tsenkher Natural Hot

Durations: 9 days, 8 nights

Springs, ElsenTasarkhai Sand dunes, Orkhon waterfall, Tuvkhun monastery,

Availability: Middle of May until the end of September

Karakorum, Ugii Lake

DAY 1. ARRIVAL IN ULAANBAATAR

DAY 5. KARAKORUM ANCIENT CAPITAL CITY (80 KM)

DAY 2. HUSTAI NATURE RESERVE AREA – ELSEN TASARKHAI SAND DUNES (280 KM)

DAY 6. TSENKHER NATURAL HOT SPRINGS (90 KM)

Upon your arrival in Ulaanbaatar, your preferred language speaking guide will warmly welcome you, and take you to your preferred (*** to *****) hotel in the city centre.

Start the morning with buffet breakfast at the hotel, and the tour starts off in direction of Hustai Nature Reserve. On the way, enjoy “Nomadic show” from 10:00-12:00. The show briefly introduces you to the ways of Mongolian Nomads’ life. Lunch in the reserve camp. In the afternoon, explore the one last true wild horse Takhi / Przewalski horse. And visit local museum and watch Takhi wild horse’s short film. After dinner, drive to Burd soum of Arkhangai province, to rest in a ger camp by the Elsen Tasarkhai sand dune. (B, L, D)

DAY 3. “ULAAN TSUTGALAN” THE ORKHON WATERFALL (190 KM)

Following breakfast at the camp, go for hiking to the sand dune. One should prepare their sunscreen oil, sun glass and a protective hat. After hiking, visit local nomadic family. Experience their unique nomad lifestyle, and try a camel ride. After local style lunch, drive to Orkhon Waterfall - where the Orkhonriver water body is released from 20m high rock cliff. Dinner and overnight in ger camp. (B, L, D)

In the morning, drive to Karakorum which was Mongolian ancient city. Here you can visit Erdene-Zuu, Turtle rock, museum of Karakorum and Khaadiin Khaad hill. Lunch and dinner in Karakorum local restaurant, and overnight in ger camp. (B, L, D)

DAY 7. UGII LAKE (80 KM)

Drive to Lake Ugii in Arkhangai province. The tourist ger camp where you will stay is located on the shores of Ugii Lake. Glorious view and countless water birds will be at your footsteps. Lunch, dinner and overnight in a ger camp. (B/L/D)

DAY 8. ULAANBAATAR/DEPARTURE (350 KM)

After breakfast, drive to Ulaanbaatar with lunch on the way and dinner in the city. Half day city tour takes you to the top attractions of Ulaanbaatar. Overnight at the hotel in the city center.

DAY 9. DEPARTURE

DAY 4. TUVKHUN MONASTERY (50 KM)

Today you will travel further from the Orkhon waterfall to Tuvkhun Monastery, where Undur Gegeen Zanabazar has created the Soyombo scripts, of which the first symbol appears in our National flag. Lunch and dinner, overnight in ger camp. (B,L,D)

Buffet breakfast at the hotel, and then transfer to your international departure point. Before the time you leave, shop at local cashmere and goods stores is possible. (B)

ORKHON WATERFALL The Orkhon river waterfall is called â&#x20AC;&#x153;Ulaan Tsutgalanâ&#x20AC;? (Red Flow) among locals because of its water appearing to be reddish in color because of high soil erosion up the stream. It is even more visible after heavy rainfall in the area. The waterfall is located in Bat-Ulzii soum of Ovorkhangai province, which is not very far from major tourist attractions of the province. The waterfall is ten meters wide & twenty meters high in rainy summers, but not as much in dry summers. There are tourist services in high seasons that provide life vests and inflatable boats to allow visitors to get near to the bottom of the waterfall. Visitors come for the fascinating natural scenery, also to relieve their stress by nature sound meditation.

UGII LAKE Ugii lake popularity is in its rich reserve of fish, extremely rare nesting and visiting birds, and swimmable warm waters through summer months - unlike most of the other lakes in the country. Aside from swimming, bird watching and fishing activities, domestic and international tourists visit Ugii Lake for its beautiful surrounding nature sceneries. The lake is located in Arkhangai province, with deepest point of around 15m and average depth of 6.6m, overall surface area is 25.7sq/km. On its west side, the lake flows Khogshin Orkhon River which later joins Orkhon river. It is home to 14 types of fish, 27 types of aquatic plants and 48 types of floating creatures. During each spring, approximately 150 waterfowls visit the lake. Ice cover takes over the lake surface from November until May.

Tour beneath the

TRILLION STARS Destination: Ulaanbaatar, Middle Gobi, South Gobi,

Highlights: Ulaanbaatar, Karakorum, Tsenher Natural Hot Springs, Baga

Duration: 12 days, 11 nights

Gazryn Chuluu, Yoliin am – The Vulture Valley, Khongor - singing sand

Availability: Middle of May until the end of September

dunes, Bayanzag, and Lake Ugii

DAY 1. ARRIVAL

DAY 2. MIDDLE GOBI (220 KM)

Your guide will pick you up at your hotel lobby after buffet breakfast. Today you begin your journey heading to Baga Gazryn Chuluu, a unique formation of rocks in the Middle Gobi province. Visit ruins of an ancient temple and explore the area. Lunch is on the way. Have a dinner and overnight in a ger camp. (B/L/D)

DAY 8. KARAKORUM (300KM)

After breakfast, drive to Karakorum, the 13th century capital of the Mongol Empire. Visit Erdene-Zuu Monastery, which was once one of the largest monasteries in Mongolia, but heavily damaged in the 1930s. Tour the monastery grounds and visit several temples with excellent examples of Buddhist iconography dating from the 16th century. Visit the symbolic ruins of Karakorum. In the evening try Mongolian style archery game. Dinner and overnight in a ger camp. (B/L/D)

DAY 9. TSENKHER HOT SPRINGS (120 KM)

DAY 3. TSAGAAN SUVARGA (200 KM)

From Baga Gazryn Chuluu, further drive to magnificent Tsagaan Suvarga and enjoy the wondrous sight there. Stay overnight at the camp. (B/L/D)

In the morning, drive to the Tsenkher hot springs. Spend the day relaxing in natural hot springs and taking a walk in the surrounding forest. This is the day you will use your swimsuit. You also may have a short hike to a mountain top, a stunning view will await you there. Optional massage and beauty services are available. Enjoy the hot springs again after dinner. Lunch, dinner and overnight in a ger camp. (B/L/D)

DAY 4. YOLIIN AM – VULTURE VALLEY (275KM)

DAY 10. UGII LAKE (195 KM)

Drive to Lake Ugii in Arkhangai province. The tourist ger camp where you will stay is located on the shores of Ugii lake. Glorious view and countless water fowls will be at your footsteps. Lunch, dinner and overnight in a ger camp. (B/L/D)

DAY 5. KHONGOR SAND DUNES (200 KM)

DAY 11. ULAANBAATAR CITY (330 KM)

After breakfast drive to Khongor sand dunes, known as Singing Dunes. A good climb up to the sand dunes will be challenging, but will reward you with a breath taking panoramic view. In the evening observe a spectacular sunset, please prepare your cameras. Lunch, dinner and overnight in a ger camp. (B/L/D)

DAY 6. BAYANZAG (150KM)

Drive to the world famous Flaming Cliffs and Bayanzag (forest of the Gobi). Discover the area of the first paleontological finding in Mongolia by following footsteps of American explorer Roy Chapman Andrews. Visit a nomadic camel herder family and experience the authentic hospitality of nomads, and also enjoy a short camel ride. Lunch, dinner and overnight in a ger camp. (B/L/D)

DAY 7. ONGYN KHIID (150 KM)

After breakfast drive to north heading Ongyn Khiid. Visit the ruins of Ongy Monastery and have a walk in the mysteriously beautiful surrounding area. Dinner and overnight in a ger camp. (B/L/D)

After breakfast, drive to Hustain Nuruu Natural Reserve. You’ll get a chance to see Przewalski horses – Mongolian “takhi” (same word used to call zebras), considered an ascendant of horses in the modern world. You’ll have a chance to get good use of your binoculars here. After visiting the museum of the reserve, watch a short documentary about these wild horses. Lunch, dinner and overnight in a ger camp. (B/L/D)

DAY 12. DEPARTURE

Buffet breakfast at the hotel, and transfer to your international departure point. Before the time you leave, shopping at local cashmere and goods stores is possible. (B)

BAGA GAZRYN CHULUU –STONE FORMATIONS Baga Gazryn Chuluu – “Stone of Small Terrain” located in Adaatsag soum of Dundgobi province, is a place where beautifully shaped massive granite stones lay in about 15 km long and 10km wide zone. The massifs feature a 20m long cave, 17th century stone temple ruin, life size paintings of deer on a granite stone, and a yurt shaped stone called “Ger chuluu”. The cave is located near to the Surtiin Am. Natural crystals can be found around the cave. There is also a narrow canyon with asp, birch, white wicker and elm trees, and a spring good for eye health. Argali wild sheep, Ibex and marmot inhabits the Baga Gazryn Chuluu. Archeologists have discovered 30 sites of Bronze and Early Iron Age, 32 sites of Xiongnu burial, 3 sites of Turkish period, and 13 sites of Mongolian period around the place.

NATURAL HOT SPRINGS OF “TSENKHER” Hot Springs of Tsenkher Rashaan is located 25 km southwest from Tsenkher soum of Arkhangai province. This spring issues sweltering 65-90C water with stench of hydrogen sulfide. Starting from early times spring water was called “Rashaan” meaning holy water among locals, and had been used for medical use, as it is believed to have good influence for articulation, stomach wellbeing, anemia, over fatigue, skin diseases and diabetes. Hot Spring of Tsenkheryn Rashaan is surrounded by beautiful natural landscape, and it is an interesting tourist site of Arkhangai province.

Glorious

NAADAM FESTIVAL Destination:

Availability: Middle of May - middle of September

Ulaanbaatar, Karakorum, Terelj National Park, Hustai Nature Reserve

Highlights: Erdene Zuu Monastery, Takhi wild horse, Turtle rock, Elsen

Durations: 8 days, 7 nights

Tasarkhai Sand dune

DAY 1. ARRIVAL

DAY 5. NAADAM FESTIVAL, 13TH CENTURY PARK (140 KM)

DAY 2. KARAKORUM (380 KM)

After breakfast, drive to Karakorum, the 13th century capital of the Mongol Empire. On the way, stop by to visit the Elsen Tasakhai sand dune and enjoy the scenery, also a chance to try a camel ride is possible. When in Karakorum, visit ErdeneZuu Monastery, which was once one of the largest monasteries in Mongolia, but heavily damaged in the 1930’s socialist purge. Tour the monastery grounds and visit several temples with excellent examples of Buddhist iconography dating from the 16th century. Visit the symbolic ruins of Karakorum. In the evening try Mongolian style archery game. Dinner and overnight in a ger camp. (B/L/D)

DAY 3. HUSTAI NATURE RESERVE (360 KM)

Breakfast in the camp and drive to Hustai Nature Reserve, and arrive around lunchtime. After having a lunch in the camp, explore the Hustai Nature Reserve by watching a short documentary on the Mongolian “takhi” wild horses and get into the field to observe the last true wild Takhi/Przewalski horse intheir natural habitat. Then drive back to Ulaanbaatar. After having a dinner, rest overnight at your hotel. (B/L/D)

DAY 4. NAADAM FESTIVAL

Start in the morning to attend the opening ceremony of the Naadam Festival at the Central Stadium in Ulaanbaatar. Every year’s opening ceremony has surprising themes for the audience. Then enjoy competitions of the three manly games - archery, wrestling and horse racing-along with Mongolian cultural performances. Enjoy complete traditional art performance show in the evening. Lunch and dinner in the local restaurants. (B/L/D)

In the morning drive to Hui Doloon-Hudag to enjoy horse racing part of Naadam, and cheer the winners like locals. Then drive to 13th Century Park 100 km east of Ulaanbaatar. On the way explore the world’s biggest Chinggis Khaan statue complex. Here you can see wide steppe with panoramic view from the head of Chinggis Khaan’s horse. Then we are going to 13th century Park. The park is to show Mongolians ancient history and nomadic lifestyle, existing centuries. Here you can have Mongolian cuisine lunch just like nomadic Mongolians. In the evening drive back to Terelj National Park (70 km northeast of Ulaanbaatar) and stay overnight at the tourist ger camp. (B, L, D)

DAY 6. TERELJ NATIONAL PARK (70 KM)

Have a breakfast at the camp and enjoy the tour in Terelj. Experience horseback riding with protection equipment for an hour. Then visit Mongolian nomadic family to explore their lifestyle. Lunch in Terelj ger camp and rest for a while. Visit to Aryabal Temple will take around 1 hour hiking in the nature. Aryabal Temple is one of the significant temple of ancient Tibetan Buddhist design which is famous as its Manchu Gunj’s story tale. After having local style dinner at ger camp, drive back to Ulaanbaatar to rest overnight at your hotel. (B, L, D)

DAY 7. ULAANBAATAR

After buffet breakfast at the hotel, city tour including a visit to the Chinggis Khaan Square, Gandan Monastery, Bogd Khaan’s winter palace museum, and National History Museum, where you will see artifacts from Mongolia and Central Asia from the Stone Age to the present, and displays of the development of Mongolian arts and culture. Afterwards an excursion to the Zaisan Hill War Memorial will let you see the panoramic view of the whole city. After dinner, rest overnight at the hotel. (B/L/D)

DAY 8. DEPARTURE

Buffet breakfast at the hotel, and transfer to your international departure point. Before the time you leave, shopping at local cashmere and goods stores is possible. (B)

“KARAKORUM” ANCIENT CAPITAL CITY Once been a capital of ancient Mongol empire under the rule of Chinggis Khaan’s son Ogedei Khaan (King Ogedei), the capital known as Karakorum (or QaraQorum; Kharakhorum;) was architectural and cultural wonder in its time. It was established in 1220-1221 by the decree of Chinggis Khaan, and in its development peak it is said to accommodate Ogedei Khaan’s “Tumen Amgalant Palace”, and Monkh Khaan’s five floored stupa. Unfortunately, the city was permanently damaged by the attacks of local lords fighting for the throne after the fall of Great Mongol Empire. The plain where the city located was left with bricks and stones scattered here and there, until they had been later picked up and used in the constructions of nearby Erdene Zuu monastery in 16th century. Now only some of the building foundations remain visible, with much other lay underground yet to be excavated. Museum of Kharkhorin soum presents a small model of the city to give visitors an idea.

ERDENE ZUU MONASTERY Erdene Zuu Khiid translates to Hundred Treasures Monastery, was the first Buddhist monastery founded in Mongolia. It was commissioned by Altai Khaan in 1586, and had between 60-100 temples and about 300 gers inside the walls in its prospering times. It is said that there was around 1000 monks in residence at its peak. Even though the temple was shut down in result of Socialist purges in 1930’s, good number of statues, tsam masks and thangkas were saved. They were buried in the mountains or stored in local homes, regardless of the high risk of punishment if discovered. In 1965, the monastery was permitted to reopen as a museum and since the collapse of communism in 1990 it once again became an active worshipping place. But in no ways it comes near to what it was before the damage from local lords’ wars and the purge. The main temples date from the 16th century. Most of the artifacts inside including paintings, thangkas , masks etc – are from 18th century. On a hill outside the monastery sits a phallus stone called Kharkhorin Rock. The phallus is said to restrain the sexual impulses of the monks and ensure their good behavior.

NAADAM FESTIVAL Mongolian word “bayar” bears the unified meaning of “joy, celebration, merriness, and festivity” in English. Typically,“bayars” tend to take festive forms and draw audiences for celebration, and biggest and brightest of them all that transforms the whole nation into a merry place is Naadam Festival in summer. Considered as one of the must see 10 festivals of the world, “Ulsyn Bayar Naadam” – “National Naadam Festival” is held between 11-13 July in the capital Ulaanbaatar. It is the biggest among other Naadams celebrated in allsoums of the 21 provinces, and province capitals. It is in order to attend or compete in the national festival without missing the local one, so don’t you miss one too! Naadam festival opens with ceremonial concerts in the stadiums, and the “three manly games” begin. Everyone puts on their traditional clothing and greet each other with bright smiles.

Aery Gobi et

KHUVSGUL LAKE Destination: Ulaanbaatar, Gobi, Khuvsgul Lake, Terelj National Park

Highlights: Vulture Valley, Khongor – singing sand dunes, Flaming cliffs,

Durations: 8 days, 7 nights

Bayanzag, Khuvsgul Lake, Terelj National Park

Availability: Middle of May - middle of September

DAY 1. ARRIVAL

Upon your arrival in Ulaanbaatar (UB), your preferred language speaking guide will warmly welcome you, and check-in to your preferred hotel (*** to *****) for the overnight rest. According to the schedule of your arrival, lunch and dinner at alocal restaurant, also half day city tour is available. (optional L, D)

DAY 2. VULTURE VALLEY (YOLIIN AM), AND KHONGORIIN ELS SAND DUNES (50 KM, 200 KM)

After buffet breakfast at the hotel, take a domestic flight to South Gobi province with your guide. The driver will pick you up from Dalanzadgad airport and journey to Gobi Gurvan Saikhan (Three Beauties of the Gobi) National Park. An excursion to Yol Valley is a good trekking that gives you stunning photographic opportunities. After lunch at the camp, you’ll leave to the “Khongoriin els” known as the Singing Dunes. Climb up to sand dunes will reward you with a breathtaking panoramic view, then visit Seruun bulag – natural spring, and Khongor river. In the evening, observe the famous Gobi sunset. Lunch, dinner and overnight in a ger camp. (B/L/D)

DAY 3. FLAMING CLIFFS AND BAYANZAG (160 KM)

Ulaanbaatar, including Gandan Monastery, Zaisan hill, Chinggis square, and Bogd Khaan’s winter palace museum. A cultural folk concert is also the highlight of the day. Lunch and dinner at a local restaurant, and overnight at preferred hotel. (B/L/D)

DAY 5. KHUVSGUL LAKE (101 KM)

Have a buffet breakfast at the hotel and take a flight to Murun, capital of Huvsgul province. The driver will pick you up there and get you to the Khuvsgul lake. After lunch at a camp you are staying, there are opportunities to sail by boat or ferry, horseback riding, fishing, hiking and photographing. Dinner and overnight in a camp. (B/L/D)

DAY 6. KHUVSGUL LAKE (20 KM)

Early in the morning, a walk by the lakeshore is highly recommended. Usually the mist takes off from water by sunrise, when you get a chance to see the striking mystical environment. After breakfast, visit a reindeer herder’s family and learn about their distinct culture and lifestyle. Optional rafting and kayaking activities are available. Dinner and overnight in a ger camp. (B/L/D)

DAY 7. TERELJ (80 KM)

In the morning depart from Murun airport to Ulaanbaatar after breakfast. From the Chinggis Khaan airport drive to Terelj National Park 70 km southeast of Ulaanbaatar, and spend the day touring the area and enjoying the magnificent alpine scenery. Visit to local nomadic herder’s family, and top attractions including Tuul River, the Turtle rock, and Aryabal temple are the highlights of this day. Lunch and dinner is at ger camps, and overnight at hotel in the city. (B/L/D)

DAY 8. DEPARTURE.

DAY 4. ULAANBAATAR (70 KM)

After breakfast, the traveling party drive to Dalanzadgad airport and take domestic flight back to UB and arrive around noon. Today is dedicated for sightseeingthe top attactions of

Buffet breakfast at the hotel, and then transfer to your international departure point. Before the time you leave, shop at local cashmere and goods stores. (B)

LAKE KHUVSGUL Khuvsgul Lake is located in the northwest of Mongolia. Being one of the biggest lakes, it is 136 km long and 262m deep, and elevated to 1,645 meters above sea level. It is the second-most voluminous freshwater lake in Asia, only second to Lake Baikal, that holds around 70% of Mongolia’s and 0.4% of the world’s fresh water. It has three islands, called Modon Khuis, Khadan Khuis and It is drained at the south end by the Eg river, which connects to the Selenge river and ultimately into Lake Baikal.

BAYANZAG AND THE FLAMING CLIFFS Bayanzag (Rich Saxual) is one of the most beautiful places among the 33 Gobies of Mongolia where travelers can see pre-historical rock paintings, caves where monks have made meditations and ruins of ancient temples and villages. The area is most famous for yielding the first discovery of dinosaur eggs.

Town of Hatgal is located in the lake’s southern end and Khankh in the northern shore.These lovely small towns buzz with local and international tourists during the summer months, and go about their peaceful life in other seasons. The surface of the lake freezes over completely in winter and melts completely around June. Every winter “Ice festival” brings busy life to Hatgal town again with visiting winter sportsmen and cheering crowds. During summer, visitors can ride a ferry, rent motorboats and jet skis, kayaks, go fishing, go hiking in the surrounding mountains, ride horses, and visit Tsaatan (reindeer herder) household.

By looking at the red and orange colors at its height around sunset, appearing like flames, American paleontologist Roy Andrew Chapman given the name “Flaming Cliffs” when he visited the area in 1920’s. Fruits of his 2 years search through Gobi desert include 10 kinds of dinosaurs of which 8 were only found from Mongolia. Asian wild ass, black tailed gazelle, and steppe wolf inhabit the area. Also extremely rare Gobi bear “Mazaalai” inhabit this area.

Horse Trekking to

EIGHT LAKES GALLOP ACCROSS THE STEPPE WITH NOMADS Destination: Ulaanbaatar, Karakorum, Orkhon Valley

Highlights:

Durations: 10 days, 9 nights

Karakorum, Tuvhun Monastery, Eight Lakes, Orkhon waterfall, Hustai

Availability: Middle of May - middle of September

Nature Reserve

DAY 1. ARRIVAL

DAY 6. EIGHT LAKES – ORKHON WATERFALL

Upon your arrival in Ulaanbaatar (UB), your preferred language speaking guide will warmly welcome you, and check-in to your preferred hotel (*** to *****) for the overnight rest. According to the schedule of your arrival, lunch and dinner at a local restaurant, also half day city tour is available. (optional L, D)

DAY 2. UB-ELSEN TASARKHAI-KARAKORUM

After breakfast, the tour starts off in direction of “Mongol els Elsen Tasarkhai” sand dune in Uvurkhangai province with your guide and driver. Here you can see a sandy Gobi like terrain and experience camel riding at your cost. As it is on the way to Karakorum, you will stop by and continue to the ancient capital ruins with lunch on your way. In the Karakorum you can visit Erdenezuu, Turtle rock, museum of Karakorum and Khaadiin Khaad hill. Dinner and overnight stay is in the ger camp. (B,L,D)

DAY 3. KARAKORUM – ORKHON VALLEY – UURTIIN TOKHOI

In the morning you meet your horses and two horse assistants that will accompany you through the travel. After your personal belongings are loaded, the travel starts off on a horseback via north side of Orkhon Valley, into the Uurtiin Tokhoi. Lunch and dinner is on the way, and in the evening you choose to camp where it is suitable for you. (B,L,D)

DAY 4. TUVKHUN MONASTERY

Today you will travel further to Tuvhun Monastery, where Undur Gegeen Zanabazar has created the Soyombo scripts, of which the first symbol appears in our National flag. Lunch and dinner is on the way, and in the evening you choose to camp where it is suitable for you. (B,L,D)

DAY 5. SHURANGA TSOHIO - EIGHT LAKES

By riding through the extinct volcanic field you will see Shuranga rock cliff, and after a short while arrive in the Naiman Nuur (Eight Lakes), the very lakes that had been created by the volcanic eruption. Food and camping follow suit of previous days. (B,L,D)

From the Eight Lakes, you travel back to Orkhon Valley where you will arrive in the Orkhon River Waterfall. Food and camping follow suit of previous days. (B,L,D)

DAY 7. ORKHON WATERFALL – ORKHON VALLEY

After camping near the Orkhon Waterfall, you travel back through south of the Orkhon Valley. Food and camping follow suit of the previous days. (B,L,D)

DAY 8. KARAKORUM

Travel starts in the morning from the point where you put up a camp, then,the horseback journey ends in the evening when you reach Karakorum. Breakfast, lunch and dinner are on the way. Since the journey on the horseback concludes here, bid farewell to your horses and horse companion. Rest overnight in a ger camp. (B,L,D)

DAY 9. ULAANBAATAR

From Karakorum, travel back to Ulaanbaatar by a vehicle after breakfast. On your way back, visit the Hustai Nuruu Natural reserve and meet “Takhi” wild horses. Explore the Nature Reserve by watching a short documentary film on the Mongolian “takhi” wild horses and travel into the field to observe the last true wild Takhi/Przewalski horse in their natural habitat. Then drive back to Ulaanbaatar. After having a dinner, rest overnight at your hotel. (B,L,D)

DAY 10. DEPARTURE

Buffet breakfast at the hotel, and then transfer to your international departure point. Before the time you leave, shopping at local cashmere and goods stores is possible. (B)

KHUISIIN NAIMAN NUUR – EIGHT LAKES Merged with Orkhon Valley Special Protected Area in 1992, Khuisiin Naiman Nuur was declared a “Natural Monument” in 1995. The lake location stretches to the grounds of Uyanga soum and Bat-Ulzii soum of Uvurkhangai province, and it is elevated 2400m above the sea level. The stunning landscape of this area had been formed hundreds of years ago as a result of continuous volcanic eruptions followed by earthquakes. Khuisiin Naiman Nuur literally translates to “Navel eight lakes”, because the lakes Shireet, Khaliut, Bugat, Khaya, Khuis, Onon, Doroo, and Bayan-Uul (8) are interconnected by underground water channels. Unfortunately, two smaller lakes have dried up completely and drainage level in the second biggest lake “Khuis” is measured to be 10% as of 2012. The overall area is rich in flora and fauna, and also proves valuable for geological and water studies. It is quite a popular destination for horseback travels, as the bumpy road supports easygoing travels, so even the jeeps have to slow down, which give its riders a good time to soak all the beauty in.

SHURANGYN TSOHIO – ROCK CLIFF On the road to Khuisiin Naiman nuur, there is a rock cliff called Shurangyn Tsohio, rich with Mongolian old script inscriptions in black ink, and red ochre cross marks that dates from Paleolithic period. Scientists suggest that the red marks indicate fire and cross marks present humans. All these scripts are clearly visible in the rain, when the rock surface is wet. There is a saying that one manages to throw a stone over the Shuranga cliff will have all their wealth multiplied and become very rich, so anyone who are stopping by are encouraged to give it a try.

Nomads on

HOT WHEELS Destination: Ulaanbaatar, Khentii Province, Terelj National Park

Highlights: Huh Nuur, Aurag Balgas museum, Baldan Bereeven Monastery,

Durations: 8 days, 7 nights

Turtle rock, Aryabal Monastery

Availability: Middle of May - middle of September

DAY 1. ARRIVAL

DAY 5. GUN GALUUT NATURE RESERVE (183KM)

DAY 2. BLUE LAKE OF BLACK HEART – HUH NUUR (210 KM)

DAY 6. TERELJ NATIONAL PARK (100 KM)

Upon your arrival in Ulaanbaatar, you guide will warmly welcome you, and check-in to your preferred hotel (*** to *****) for the overnight rest. According to the schedule of arrival, lunch and dinner at a local restaurant, also half day city tour is available.

In the morning, ride to the Gun Galuut Nature Reserve, where you can enjoy the magnificent natural scenery where rivers run through the vast steppe, with lakes and wetlands nurturing the lives of rare birds, and surrounded by high mountains from afar. Lunch and dinner on the way, overnight in ger camp. (B/L/D)

In the morning, the riders select and obtain their motorcycles. The journey starts in the direction of Khar Zurhnii Huh Lake in Khentii province, which translates to “Black Heart’s Blue Lake”. The lake is surrounded by magnificent natural scenery, and it is of historical significance as the Lake was mentioned in the “Secret History of Mongols” altogether five times. The road is challenging for visitors, so the brave and adventurous sense the triumph upon their arrival. Lunch on the way, dinner and overnight stay in ger camp. (B/L/D)

After breakfast, start your ride to the Terelj National Park. On the way explore the world’s biggest Chinggis Khaan statue complex. Here you can see wide steppe with panoramic view from the head of Chinggis Khaan’s horse. Then in Terelj, visit local nomadic herder’s family, and see the top attractions including the Turtle Rock, Tuul river valley and Aryabal temple, which are the highlights of this day. Lunch on the way, dinner and overnight stay is at ger camp. (B/L/D)

DAY 3. BALDAN BEREEVEN MONASTERY (100 KM)

Start to Ulaanbaatar after breakfast and upon arrival, conclude the motorcycle tour and begin your city tour by a chauffeured vehicle. City tour includes visit to the Chinggis Khaan Square, Gandan Monastery, Bogd Khaan’s winter palace museum, and National History Museum. Afterwards an excursion to the Zaisan Hill War Memorial will let you see the panoramic view of the whole city and provide good photographic opportunities. After dinner, rest overnight at the city centre hotel. (B/L/D)

In the morning, enjoy the panoramic view of the Lake from above the hill near the camp. Then start to Baldan Bereeven Monastery, located 50 km northeast of the Lake. The road is elevated high in mountainous terrain, and is highly challenging during rainfalls. The Baldan Bereeven monastery monks welcome the visitors into their main building and a small temple. Trails around the Monastery take visitors to the large scale Buddhist ritual god image carvings on stones and rocks. After dinner, travel back to the Lake and rest overnight. (B/L/D)

DAY 4. KHUDUU ARAL (145 KM)

After breakfast, the party starts to Khuduu Aral - also a historically significant area, where ruins of the Chinggis Khaan’s “Aurag” palace lay. Since the remaining pieces of the palace are densely placed and mostly covered by soil, recoverable findings are now placed in the museum of “Aurag Balgas” (Aurag Ruins). The place is located in the steppe with high pastures, and lake “Avarga Toson” considered to have healing power in its muds is located near. Lunch on the way, dinner and overnight at ger camp. (B/L/D)

DAY 7. ULAANBAATAR (70 KM)

DAY 8. DEPARTURE

Buffet breakfast at the hotel, and then transfer to your international departure point. Before the time of departure, shopping at local cashmere and goods stores is possible. (B)

KHAR ZURHNII HUH LAKE Khar Zurhnii Huh Nuur translates into Black Heart’s Blue Lake, is located near the Tsenkher River in Tsenkher Mandal soum of Khentiy province. In 1189, Temuujin was enthroned as ChinggisKhaan (King Great as Ocean) by the Ikh Huraldai (Great Council) in the Huh Nuur by Khar Zurh Mountain. On the anniversary of Chinggis Khaan’s 840th birthday, a statue was built on the lake shore and 38 wooden carvings of Mongolian great kings of his bloodline stand in half moon shape with English and Mongolian description panels in front of them. The lake area has high biodiversity. People visit to admire the natural landscape and soak in the fresh air, gaze at the crystal clear blue sky which at nights allowsthe stars look like they are about to shower down.

BALDAN BEREEVEN MONASTERY Located at the hill of the Munkh-Ulziit Mountain, the monastery was built in 1777 by the great lam (monk) Tseveendorj, who was one of the 7 principal lamas of the Bogd Khaan at the time, and it consisted of “Yellow, and White” two temples. Then in 1813, the “Bileg-Ulziit Tsogchin Monastery” was added to the complex, which allowed 3000 lamas to sit in its 40 lanes at once for the religious practices. The monastery was considered the center of Eastern Mongolian Buddhism. Unfortunately, the monastery was heavily damaged in 1937 when the socialist purge hit the eastern provinces, and its activities were ceased until 1990’s. Upon recovering its activities, the images of Buddhist ritual gods have been carved on rocks and large stones around the monastery are now drawing attraction of the visiting tourists and pilgrims. The main Tsogchin Monastery was restored, along with the small temple allows the services to run today, but the monastery is dramatically reduced in its scale, from the time it had been flourishing.

Great Lakes

OF MONGOLIA Destination: Ulaanbaatar, Selenge province, Khuvsgul province,

Highlights:

Khorgo-TerhiinTsagaan National Park

Khorgo extinct volcano crater, White Lake, Khuvsgul Lake, Uran Togoo

Duration: 13 days, 12 nights

extinct volcano, Amarbayasgalant Monastery, Karakorum, Erdene-Zuu

Availability: Middle of May - middle of September

Monastery, Tsenkher Natural Hot Spring

DAY 1. ARRIVAL

DAY 8. KHUVSGUL LAKE

Upon your arrival in Ulaanbaatar, our guide will warmly welcome you, and check-in to your preferred hotel (*** to *****) for the overnight rest. According to the schedule of arrival, lunch and dinner at a local restaurant, also half day city tour is available.

DAY 2. AMARBAYASGALANT (350 KM)

After buffet breakfast at the hotel, start your journey to Amarbayasgalant Monastery – the Monastery of Tranquil Felicity. Dinner and overnight in a ger camp near the Monastery. (B/L/D)

DAY 3. URAN TOGOO (300 KM)

After breakfast drive to Uran Togoo, an extinct volcano in Bulgan province. The crater is humble but is in an interesting shape, which is considered as one of the nature’s precious craft. Dinner and overnight in a ger camp. (B/L/D)

DAY 4. MURUN TOWN (220 KM)

In the morning drive north to the Khuvsgul province capital Murun town. Please keep your cameras аt hand; photo opportunities will be present very often. Late afternoon reach the Murun town and settle in a hotel. Dinner at a local restaurant, and overnight in a hotel. (B/L/D)

DAY 5. TSAGAAN NUUR SOUM (280 KM)

Early in the morning start to Tsagaan Nuur soum, located in the far north of Khuvsgul province. Lunch on the way and dinner is when you arrive in the ger camp. It is a small town where majority of the residents are of Tsaatan ethnic group. Overnight in a ger camp. (B/L/D)

DAY 6. TAIGA (75 KM)

After breakfast, the ride is in direction of Taiga, up until the point where vehicle can take you. Furthermore, the travel continues on horseback through the woods. About two hours later, we arrive in the Tsaatan family home, with large herd of reindeers, and tent housing. There, greet the host and meet the family, and learn about their distinct culture and lifestyle throughout the day. Dinner and overnight is with the Tsaatan household. (B/L/D)

DAY 7. KHUVSGUL LAKE (325 KM)

Say your goodbyes to the Tsaatan family, and go down to the Tsagaan Nuur soum from the Taiga. From there, continue your journey to the Khuvsgul Lake. Around evening, settle in the camp by the lakeshore. Lunch and dinner on the way. (B/L/D)

Early in the morning a walk by the lakeshore is highly recommended. When the mist takes off from the water by sunrise, one gets a chance to see the striking mystical environment that enchants the minds of travellers. After breakfast, optional rafting and kayaking activities are available. Dinner and overnight in a ger camp. (B/L/D)

DAY 9. GREAT WHITE LAKE (280 KM)

Drive to a magnificent volcanic area of Khorgiin Togoo, which is located on the east shores of Lake Terhiin Tsagaan. Disregard the time lapse briefly while visiting the timeless nature formations. Dinner and overnight in a ger camp. (B/L/D)

DAY 10. TSENKHER NATURAL HOT SPRINGS (220 KM)

DAY 11. KARAKORUM (90 KM)

After breakfast, drive to Karakorum, the 13th century capital of the Mongol Empire. Visit the Karakorum museum, and Erdene Zuu Monastery, which had been one of the most significant monasteries in Mongolia, but heavily damaged in the 1930’s socialist purge. Tour the monastery grounds and visit several temples with excellent examples of Buddhist iconography dating from the 16th century. Lunch, dinner and overnight in ger camp. (B/L/D)

DAY 12. ULAANBAATAR (380 KM)

After breakfast drive back to Ulaanbaatar. After dinner at a local restaurant, , city tour including a visit to the Chinggis Khaan Square, Bogd Khaan’s winter palace museum, and National History Museum, where you will see artifacts from Mongolia and Central Asia from the Stone Age to the present. Afterwards an excursion to the Zaisan Hill War Memorial will let you see the panoramic view of the whole city. After dinner, rest overnight at the hotel. (B/L/D)

DAY 13. DEPARTURE

Buffet breakfast at the hotel, and then transfer to your international departure point. Before the time of departure, shopping at local cashmere and goods stores is possible. (B)

“URAN TOGOO” EXTINCT VOLCANO Uran Togoo is named according to its shape resembling a round pot. Together with Tulga Uul (traditional tripod pot support mountain) and Jalavch Uul (small pot mountain), these extinct volcanoes form “Tulga Uul Natural Monument” special protected area covering 5,800 hectares of Khutag-Ondor soum of Bulgan province. The UranTogoo features an extinct volcano crate that is perfectly round shaped, with 20m diameter round lake in the middle of it. The mountain sides are full of volcanic rocks of various shapes and sizes, and it takes a healthy climb up to the crate mouth from the parking spot. Visit there to admire the craft of nature formed so fine and stroll through the field of volcanic rocks to feel the time elapse.

TERKHIIN TSAGAAN LAKE Known as White Lake among tourists, Terkhiin Tsagaan Lake is a fresh water lake just 6km west from the Khorgo extinct volcano in Arkhangai province. The lake was formed as a result of volcanic eruption about 9000 years ago, where upper and lower Therkhiin rivers had been bordered by the Khorgo volcano’s burning lava. In February, 2011, it was a featured get away location on CNN.com. On the destination, fishing, bird watching, and swimming activities are available as the lake supports plenty of fish including Pike, some rare birds and migratory waterfowls. There are many camps around during summer, where one can get a meal and comfortable accommodation, as well as a motorboat to travel on 16km length, 6km width, 20m depth and 61.1 km square Terkhiin Tsagaan Lake. The lake freezes during winter and melts completely around May.

Wonders of the Western Mongolia and

GOLDEN EAGLE FESTIVAL Destination: Hovd Province, Northern Blue Mount’s Cave, Tsambagarav

Availability: Golden Eagle Festival 2016 is on 1 OCT and 2 OCT.

National Park, Bayan Ulgii Province, Altai Tavan Bogd National Park

Highlights: Exploring far west of Mongolia and 3rd largest Mount

Durations: 10 days 9 nights

Tsambagarav, also Golden Eagle Festival and Kazakh family.

26 SEP DAY 1. ARRIVAL

30 SEP DAY 5: GOLDEN EAGLE FESTIVAL

Upon your arrival in Ulaanbaatar, your local guide will greet you and transfer to your preferred hotel (*** to *****). According to the schedule of your arrival lunch and dinner at the local restaurant, also half day city tour is available. (optional L, D)

27 SEP DAY 2: HOVD / TOUR TO HOID TSENHER CAVE (25 KM)

We will take the flight to Hovd. Then we will drive to the Khar Us Nuur (Black Water Lake) is located in the center great lakes basin approximately 25 km east of Hovd, and is Mongolian second largest and fresh water lake. That’s why it is an important point for migrating birds. The lake is a best place to watching birdlife. We can count up to 300 different species of water and wetland birds including Dalmatian Pelicans, Relict Gulls, Black Stock, BarHeaded Goose, Eurasian or White Spoonful, Great White Egret. Khar Us Lake National Park was established in 1997 on WWF recommendation. The cave of the Hoid Tsenheriin Aguu (Northern Blue Mount’s cave) which dates from stone age-Paleolithic period. The cave is famous it’s most remarkable rock paintings in the whole of Asia, dating back to 15,000-20,000 years ago. The paintings are an outstanding example of the cave art of Stone Age man depicting bulls, ibex, wild sheep, camels, and gazelles and even elephants, mammoths and ostriches which lived in Mongolia at the time. Overnight tent camping. (B, L, D)

28, 29 SEP DAY 3-4: BEAUTY OF TSAMBAGARAV NATIONAL PARK / HIKING

After relaxing breakfast, we will drive to the snow capped Mt. Tsambagarav (4202m), Mongolia’s third highest mountain. Amongst this wonderful combination of rivers and mountains, we will pitch our camp. It is a perfect hiking point for the Altai Mountain and photographing all day, you can venture through the snow and roam through the beautiful meadow of flowers and waterfalls. Wild onions, numerous species of butterflies, the Altai ibex, Altai snow cock, and black vultures are all part of the flora and fauna in this corner of outstanding beauty. Here we will visit Mongol nomadic family and experience the last remaining nomadic culture and taste homemade cheese, cream, yoghurt, traditionally brewed spirit etc., Overnight in the tent. Next day we will drive to Olgii city. About 90% of this province’s population is Kazakh community (Turkic Kazakh) who have their own language and culture. Bayan Olgii province is the home of Mongolia’s greatest golden eagle trainers. We will visit the local museum. Overnight in a ger camp just out of town. (B, L, D)

Today we will attend the Golden Eagle Festival all day. The festival starts with the hunters displaying their hunting outfits, accessories and traditional dress. In the evening, we will watch concert in the local theatre and enjoy folklore music and songs of Kazakh. Dinner and overnight in hotel. (B, L, D)

1 OCT DAY 6: GOLDEN EAGLE FESTIVAL

The second day of the festival includes competitions and presentations of the special relationship between the trainer and his bird of prey. You will be able to experience a number of Kazakh traditions on first-hand. Join with the hunters, watch them pampering their birds and cheer for the competitors. Overnight in hotel. (B, L, D)

2 OCT DAY 7: EAGLE TRAINER’S FAMILY

After relaxing breakfast, we will drive and visit Mongolia’s greatest eagle trainers. The tradition of hunting with eagles goes back thousands of years in central Asia; we will stay with the eagle trainer’s family and learn the secrets of taming these enormous birds, as well as about the traditions of the Kazakh minority in Mongolia. Explore Kazakh people’s amazing culture and tradition. Overnight in tent or Kazakh Ger with the trainer’s family. (B, L, D)

3 OCT DAY 08: ULGII/ ULAANBAATAR.

We will drive back to Ulgii and take the first available flight for departure to Ulaanbaatar. After arrival in Ulaanbaatar, visit National History museum and some shopping at the Cashmere Factory Outlet Store. Overnight in hotel. (B, L, D)

4 OCT DAY 9: FULL DAY GUIDED SIGHTSEEING IN ULAANBAATAR

After breakfast enjoy the full day city tour of Ulaanbaatar and it takes you through some of the principal sights of this unique city. Visit the Gandan Monastery, housing a 26 meter high gilded statue of the Buddha. Your tour also takes you to the Bogd Khaan’s Winter Palace Museum, Zaisan Hill and Buddha Park and you will enjoy performance of Mongolian traditional song, dance, contortions and huumii with traditional clothes fashion show. After the show, dinner in Mongolian barbeque restaurant and overnight in the hotel. (B, L, D)

5 OCT DAY 10: DEPARTURE

Buffet breakfast at the hotel, and transfer to your international departure point. (B)

ALTAI TAVAN BOGD NATIONAL PARK The Altai Tavan Bogd National Park covers 6,362 km² and is located south of the highest mountain of Mongolia. The Khuiten peak of Tavan Bogd Mountain reaches 4374m above sea level, and for some of the professional hikers it is a must hike mountain before heading the Himalayas. It includes the Khoton, Khurgan, and Dayan Lakes. The protected area offers a home for many species of alpine animals, such as the Argali sheep, Ibex, Red deer, Beech marten, Moose, Snow cock, and Golden eagle. The UNESCO World Heritage Site Petroglyph Complexes of the Mongolian Altai is located in Altai Tavan Bogd National Park. The World Heritage Site covers three locations with several thousand petroglyphs and Turkic monoliths, including the Tsagaan Salaa Rock Paintings with over 10,000 cave drawings in 15 km of river valley.

GOLDEN EAGLE FESTIVAL The Golden Eagle festival is an annual traditional festival held in Bayan Ulgii Province. In the eagle festival, Kazakh eagle hunters celebrate their heritage and compete to catch small animals such as foxes and hares with specially trained golden eagles, showing off the skills both of the birds and their trainers. Prizes are awarded for speed, agility and accuracy, as well as for the best traditional Kazakh dress, and more...

KHAR-US LAKE Khar-Us is Lake in Uvs Province of Western Mongolia in the Great Lakes Depression. It is the upper one in a system of the interconnected lakes: Khar-Us, Khar, Dorgon, Airag and Khyargas. Its area value (1,852 km²) includes the island Agbash (or Ak-Bashi, white head) area (274 km²), so the water surface area is 1,578 km² only.

MOUNT TSAMBAGARAV Tsambagarav is mountain between Khovd Province and Bayan Ulgii Province in western Mongolia, it is a mountain of the Altai Mountain range. It has two peaks, the highest peak is “Mount Tsast” (which means snow vovered peak) has an elevation of 4,193 metres and the third largest peak of Mongolia. The mountain is stand-alone eternally snowcapped mountain of the Mongol Altai and regional sacred mountain in Mongolia. And it stands in Tsambagarav National Park. National park covers 1,110 square kilometres, and has notable population of snow leopard, amongst other species.

Travel Expert in Mongolia Baga toiruu street 28-1, 6th khoroo, Sukhbaatar district, 14200 Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia www.letstravelmongolia.com www.letstravel.mn Phone: +976 7000 2232 Fax: +976 7000 2223 E-mail: info@letstravel.mn