Mongolia at a Glance

Today we explore Karakorum, the 13th-century capital of Genghis Khan’s empire, founded in 1220 and completed under Ugedei Khan. Once a thriving political, trade, and cultural hub, it later lost prominence when Kublai Khan moved the capital to Beijing. After its destruction by Ming troops in 1388, the site was revived in 1588 with the construction of the Main Zuu temple at Erdene Zuu Monastery.

Erdene Zuu Monastery – Once a vast complex with 100 temples and over 1,000 lamas, today three temples remain—Dalai Lama, Zuu of Buddha, and Lavrin Temple—enclosed within impressive 400m x 400m walls. Visitors can walk the grounds and experience the monastery’s enduring spiritual atmosphere.

Karakorum Archaeological Museum – Though modest in size, the museum is well-designed with excellent lighting and clear English labels. Its collection includes hundreds of artifacts from the 13th–14th centuries, along with prehistoric tools, pottery, bronzes, coins, religious sculptures, and stone inscriptions. Highlights include a half-excavated kiln built into the floor, a detailed scale model of 13th-century Karakorum based on William of Rubruck’s writings, and a Turkic noble tomb with wall paintings, gold objects, and jewels, complemented by a short video.

Nearby, you can also see Turtle Rock, Phallic Rock, and browse a small local market featuring works by local artists.

Activities

• Explore Erdene Zuu Monastery

• Visit the Karakorum Archaeological Museum

Today, we head to Khogno Khan National Park for a trek through the mountains, ending with panoramic views of rolling hills, sand dunes, and vast grasslands. We’ll also visit the serene Ovgon Monastery. Afterwards, we explore the Elsen Tasarkhai Sand Dunes, known as the “Little Gobi,” which stretch over 100 kilometers.

Activities:

• Explore Elsen Tasarkhai sand dunes
• Discover Khogno Khan mountain
• Visit Ovgon monastery
• Opportunity for camel riding

Today we will drive towards Terelj National Park, which lies 70 km from the capital. Our journey will take us through a valley surrounded by lush, forested hills and breathtaking granite cliffs. The valley is adorned with vibrant wildflowers and is home to herds of peacefully grazing yaks, horses, goats, and sheep. This picturesque park, featuring granite rocks, pine trees, and a flowing river, is an ideal spot for hiking, horseback riding, swimming, or simply unwinding and soaking in the views. We will explore several notable sites in the area.

Our first stop will be the Genghis Khan Monument, an impressive aluminum statue of Genghis Khan on horseback. Visitors can climb to the top of the monument for stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Additionally, a small museum offers a comprehensive overview of the Great Mongol Empire's history, including the lineage of the great Khans and their conquests. We will also visit Turtle Rock and the Aryaval Monastery, a serene meditation spot located at the mountain's base, where there are excellent opportunities for hiking, climbing, and horseback riding.

Activities:

• Explore the Genghis khan statue
• Discover the Aryapal monastery
• Check out Turtle rock
• Opportunity for horseback riding