Untouched Beauty of Mongolia - Grand Tour

City tour. Visit to National History Museum and Gandan monastery. Welcome dinner and briefing on upcoming tour.

In the morning start driving to Kharkhorin, which is settled in legendary Orkhon Valley. It was formerly a great capital city built by the order of Chingis Khaan and finished by his son king Ugudei in 1235. But in 1380 it was destroyed by Manchu soldiers completely. Later on in 1586 Abtai khaan raised the Erdene Zuu monastery, the first Buddhist temple complex, at the ruins of this famous city. Although most of the monastery buildings were destroyed during the communist repression of 1937, major buildings and 108 stupas are survived and the exhibits are displayed for the visitors. We will visit Erdene Zuu monastery. 

rive to the Tsenkher Hot Springs & Spa, natural beauty- the hot spring, situated between forested hills and breathtaking mountains, water from this geological spectacle emerges from the ground at 85.5°C. (B/L/D)

Terkhiin Tsagaan Lake. It has a fresh water and the volcanic area around it is certainly the natural highlight and is one of the beautiful lakes of Mongolia. Surrounded by extinct volcanoes at an altitude of 2.060 meters above the sea level. Explore the lake and its vicinity areas. Hike to Khorgo Uul volcano (2.965m) from the northeast shore of the lake. Visit caves on the way. The lake, birdlife and mountains are protected within the 73000-hectare Khorgo-Terkhiin Tsagaan Lake National Park. Fishing, swimming, hiking and walking activities… 

Lake Telmen has three islands that it attracts many numbers of migrating birds and it makes the lake more beautiful. Local herders especially –Khotgoid –ethnic people call this lake –Telmen Mother and Green Telmen. 

Drive to Khar Lake /Black Lake/ - another wonder of natural beauty. This lake occupies 40 sq.km area, and surrounded by magic sand hills that its beauty could impress one. The lake reaches 40m deep point. Hiking in vicinity areas and riding two-humped Mongolian (bacterain) camel. 

Embark on a scenic drive westward towards the enchanting Uvs Province, a land of lakes, wetlands, sand dunes, and towering mountains. Your destination: Khyargas Lake, Mongolia's second-largest salt lake. As you arrive, you'll be greeted by the shimmering expanse of water, teeming with abundant fish and offering a serene spot for birdwatching. Immerse yourself in the tranquility of nature and marvel at the beauty of Khyargas Lake, a hidden gem waiting to be discovered.

Today, we drive to Uvs Lake, a hidden gem in Central Asia. Fed by the Tes-Khem River from Mongolia, it hosts a diverse ecosystem with rare wildlife. Despite extreme temperatures, snow leopards thrive in protected areas. Rich in history, ancient burial sites reveal nomadic heritage. Then arrive at Ulaangom town. Stay overnight in a local hotel. (B/L/D) 

Embark on an adventure to Uureg Lake, nestled in Uvs Province, surrounded by towering peaks like Tsagaan Shuvuut Uul. Enjoy a refreshing swim in its freshwater, despite the brisk waters, and indulge in fishing tales of abundant fish. Spend the night under the stars in a tent camp or with a nomadic host family, immersing yourself in Mongolia's natural beauty.

Our journey continues to Ulgii town. Unlike other provinces, Ulgii's population is dominated by Turkic Kazakhs, known for their distinct language, customs, and Muslim faith. Along the way, we'll visit a Kazakh family living in colorful gers. Here, they train eagles, falcons, and hawks to hunt marmots, small foxes, and wolves, bringing them back to the ger for food. It's a fascinating glimpse into the traditional way of life in this unique corner of Mongolia.

We are entering Altai high mountain area and arrive at Shiveet Khairkhan mountain- the closest place to the Altai peaks reachable by the car. We are travelling at the altitude of 2500-3000 m. We will visit local kazakh family to explore their life as well as rent horses for our further trip. Prepare our luggage for the next 3 day-trekking trip to Altai peaks. 

Leave our vehicle and load our luggage to the horses and trek toward the Altai tavan Bogd peaks of 4100-4374m. Arrive at the foot of the high peaks. 

Start our trekking towards Potanin Glacier and The Tavan Bogd (means Holy Five Peaks) highest peaks in Mongolia - Khuiten Uul- 4374m, Peak Malchin, Peak Naran, Peak Burged and Peak Ulgii. Meaning the 5 Kings it comprises of five neighboring peaks. While trekking we will cross glaciers which connect those five peaks. Trekking distance 20km approx. Arrive at the base camp.