Nature Escape close to Ulaanbaatar

Today we will head 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

Today, we will journey to Khustain Nuruu National Park. Just before reaching the park, we will stop at the Mongol Nomadic Tourist Camp to immerse ourselves in local culture and traditions.

The Przewalski's Horse, also known as the Takhi horse, is a rare and endangered wild horse subspecies native to the steppes of Central Asia. Once extinct in the wild, it has been reintroduced to its natural habitat in Mongolia. Khustain Nuruu National Park was established as a reserve in 1993 and was elevated to national park status in 1998. Currently, the park is home to approximately 350 Takhi horses, along with 459 vascular plant species and 217 bird species.

Upon our arrival at the Khustain Nuruu National Park camp, we will meet the park staff and learn about their ongoing projects. In the afternoon, we will explore the park's stunning natural wonders.

Activities:

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

Our journey begins in Zuunmod, the capital of Tov Province. After about an hour of driving, we will arrive in the center of this quaint administrative town. From Zuunmod, we continue to Manzushir Monastery, located on the slopes of Bogd Khan Mountain, just 8 kilometers away. The surroundings are serene, with rolling hills blanketed in pine and cedar trees. Granite formations scattered across the landscape lend the area a truly magical atmosphere. Founded in 1733, Manzushir Monastery once housed over 20 temples and 350 monks. Sadly, it was destroyed during the 1937 Stalinist purges. Today, the main temple has been rebuilt and transformed into a museum, while the rest of the monastery remains in ruins, evoking a sense of history and reflection.

After exploring the monastery and uncovering its stories, we’ll embark on a trek across Bogd Khan Mountain. Adventurous travelers can climb the hill behind the main temple to enjoy breathtaking views of the valley below—a picturesque mix of lakes, oak, birch, and cedar forests, dotted with striking granite boulders.

We will conclude the day by returning to Ulaanbaatar.

Activities:

• Explore Historic Monastery. Founded in 1733, once home to 20+ temples and 350 monks
• Scenic location. Nestled on Bogd Khan Mountain surrounded by pine and cedar forests.
• Panoramic views. Trekking nearby hills offers sweeping views of valleys, lakes and forests