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Discover Northern and Central Mongolia

By September 14th, 2026No Comments

Explore the natural beauty of Mongolia on a 12-day Discover Central and Northern Mongolia tour, with green valleys, open steppe, clear lakes, forests, and mountains. Experience peaceful countryside, fresh air, and beautiful landscapes as you travel from Central to Northern Mongolia.

Day 1

Terelj National Park 

Today we pick you up from your hotel at 9:00 am. First, we visit the iconic Genghis Khan Statue. After exploring the statue complex, we drive to Terelj National Park, one of Mongolia’s most beautiful and popular parks.

In Terelj, visit Turtle Rock and the nearby Ariyabal Meditation Temple, both offering stunning views. With its unique mix of nature and culture, Terelj National Park truly represents the best of Central Mongolia.

Distance: 100km ( 2h drive on paved road )
Standard Ger (Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner)
Best of Central Mongolia

Day 2

Elsen Tasarkhai

After breakfast, we drive to Elsen Tasarkhai, a semi-desert in central Mongolia. Known as the “Mini Gobi,” it features sandy dunes, grasslands, rocky formations, and small water bodies.

Enjoy a 1-hour camel ride, explore the dunes, and take in the stunning scenery. Perfect for photos and short walks, Elsen Tasarkhai is a must-visit stop on your tour.

Distance: 340km ( 6h drive on paved road )
Standard Ger (Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner)
Elsen tasarkhai

Day 3

Kharkhorin & Erdene Zuu Monastery

Today, we will visit Kharkhorin, the former capital of the Mongol Empire. This historic town is full of cultural treasures and stories from the past.

We’ll explore Erdene Zuu Monastery, one of Mongolia’s oldest and most important Buddhist temples, and also visit the Kharkhorin Museum.

Distance: 80km ( 1-1.5h drive on paved road )
Standard Ger (Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner)
Karakorum

Day 4

Orkhon Valley 

As one of Mongolia’s most treasured landscapes, the Orkhon Valley stands out as a must-see destination and part of the best of Central Mongolia.

Visit the famous Orkhon Waterfall, framed by rocky cliffs. Experience the traditional nomadic lifestyle with a local family and learn about their daily life. Enjoy a 1-hour horse ride through the beautiful countryside.

Distance: 125km ( 4h drive on paved/ dirt road)
Standard Ger (Breakfast/Lunch/ Dinner)
Orkhon waterfall

Day 5

Tsenkher Hot Springs

Tsenkher Hot Springs is famous for its mineral-rich waters, known for their healing properties. The waters contain minerals like calcium, sodium, and sulfur, which are believed to be good for the body.

The peaceful surroundings make it perfect for relaxing. Soak in the hot springs, unwind, and enjoy the calm. It’s also great for nature lovers and photographers, with beautiful scenery everywhere.

Distance: 120km ( 4h drive on dirt road )
Standard Ger (Breakfast/Lunch/ Dinner)
Explore Central Mongolia Tour

Day 6

Khorgo & Terkh 

Today, explore Khorgo Terkhiin Tsagaan Nuur National Park, one of the best of Central Mongolia. This beautiful park is a favorite spot for travelers who love nature and adventure.

Explore Khorgo Volcano, walk around its volcanic crater, and take in panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The park is also famous for its volcanic landscape and clear blue lake.

Distance: 195km ( 6h drive on dirt/ paved road )
Standard Ger (Breakfast/Lunch/ Dinner)
Terkh white lake

Day 7

Shine Ider

Today, we’ll travel to Shine Ider Village, located on the border of Khuvsgul and Arkhangai provinces. Although it’s part of Khuvsgul, the village is often a peaceful stop for travelers heading to Northern Mongolia.

Surrounded by forests and wide grasslands, Shine Ider is the perfect place to rest, relax, and enjoy the quiet beauty of nature during your Discover Northern and Central Mongolia.

Distance: 160km ( 6h drive on dirt road )
Standard Ger (Breakfast/Lunch/ Dinner)
Best of Northern Mongolia

Day 8

Khuvsgul Lake

Today’s highlight is the stunning Khuvsgul Lake, the heart of any Khuvsgul Lake tour in Mongolia. Travelers come here to enjoy the crystal-clear waterfresh mountain air, and peaceful nature.

You can hike around the area and enjoy the stunning, untouched sceneryKhuvsgul Lake is a must-visit destination in northern Mongolia.

Distance: 200km ( 6h drive on dirt/ paved road )
Standard Ger (Breakfast/Lunch/ Dinner)
Discover Northern and Central Mongolia

Day 9

Lake Khuvsgul

Today, enjoy a relaxing day at the stunning Khuvsgul Lake, one of the most beautiful places in Northern Mongolia. Take a peaceful walk along the clear lakeshore and breathe in the fresh mountain air.

In addition, visit a Reindeer Tsaatan family to learn about their unique way of life. (Some Tsaatan families stay near Khuvsgul Lake from June to the end of August.) This relaxing day by Khuvsgul Lake will give you the perfect mix of nature, culture, and unforgettable memories.

Standard Ger (Breakfast/Lunch/ Dinner)
Best of Northern Mongolia

Day 10

Visit Uran Togoo

During your Northern Mongolia Tour, stop at Uran Togoo, a beautiful extinct volcano in Bulgan Province. This peaceful place, part of the Uran Togoo Natural Monument, is perfect for a short hike and a rest on your way to Khuvsgul Lake.

From the top, enjoy wide views of green hills and open valleys — a peaceful and scenic stop during your Tour.

Distance: 355km ( 7h drive on paved road )
Standard Ger (Breakfast/Lunch/ Dinner)
Urantogoo Uul

Day 11

Amarbayasgalant monastery

Today our trip to Amarbayasgalant Monastery, one of the most beautiful and peaceful places in Mongolia.

The monastery is set in a quiet valley, far from the city. It’s a great place to learn about Mongolian history, culture, and religion. When we arrive, you’ll have time to walk through the old templeslook at amazing Buddhist art, and enjoy the calm and quiet.

Distance: 245km ( 6h drive on dirt/ paved road )
Standard Ger (Breakfast/Lunch/ Dinner)
Amarbayasgalant

Day 12

Return to Ulaanbaatar

After breakfast, we drive back to Ulaanbaatar. Upon arrival, you will be transferred to your booked hotel. This marks the final stop of your Discover Northern and Central Mongolia tour.

Distance: 310km ( 6h drive on dirt/ paved road )
(Breakfast/ Lunch)

Tour Price

2 people -$2700 per person

3 people -$2340 per person

4 people -$2160 per person

5 and more – $1980 per person 

Included

  • Breakfast- 11, Lunch- 12, Dinner-11
  • Standard ger 11
  • English speaking tour guide
  • Driver+ Gas+4WD vehicle / Minivan
  • Camel riding 1h
  • Horse riding 1h
  • Entrance fees for the parks and museums listed in the program
  • Daily drinking water (1.5 liter per person per day)

Not Included

  • International Airfare and Mongolia visa fee
  • Personal items
  • Alcoholic drinks, snacks, bar bills, laundry
  • Accommodation in Ulaanbaatar
  • Travel insurance
  • Single supplement
  • Gratuities for guides and drivers

Discover Central and Northern Mongolia – 12-Day Tour

Experience the green landscapes, beautiful lakes, mountains, and peaceful countryside of Mongolia on a 12-day Discover Central and Northern Mongolia tour. This relaxing journey takes you through some of the country’s most scenic destinations, from the open steppe of Central Mongolia to the forests and clear waters of the north. Start your journey at Terelj National Park, where green valleys, mountains, and unusual rock formations create a beautiful natural setting. Then continue to Elsen Tasarkhai, where golden sand dunes meet the green steppe. Enjoy the peaceful scenery and take a camel ride across the dunes.

Next, visit Kharkhorum, the ancient capital of the Mongol Empire, and explore Erdene Zuu Monastery. Continue to the Orkhon Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with its wide green valleys, rivers, and mountains. Visit the impressive Orkhon Waterfall and enjoy the beautiful countryside. From Orkhon, continue to Tsenkher Hot Springs. Take time to relax in the warm waters and enjoy the quiet surroundings. Then travel to Terkhiin Tsagaan Lake, one of Mongolia’s most beautiful lakes. Explore the peaceful lakeshore and nearby volcanic landscapes.

Continue north through Shine-Ider to Khuvsgul Lake, known as Mongolia’s “Blue Pearl.” Surrounded by forests and mountains, the lake is the perfect place to slow down and enjoy nature. Spend time taking in the clear water, fresh air, and peaceful scenery. On the return journey, visit Uran Togoo, an extinct volcano surrounded by green steppe. Finally, explore the beautiful Amarbayasgalant Monastery before returning to Ulaanbaatar.

What to Expect

  • Green landscapes: Enjoy wide valleys, green steppe, forests, mountains, and peaceful countryside.
  • Beautiful lakes: Discover Terkhiin Tsagaan Lake and the spectacular Khuvsgul Lake.
  • Peace and relaxation: Take your time at the lakes, hot springs, and scenic countryside.
  • Natural highlights: See waterfalls, sand dunes, volcanic landscapes, mountains, and forests.
  • History and culture: Visit ancient Kharkhorum, Erdene Zuu Monastery, and Amarbayasgalant Monastery.
  • Unique experiences: Enjoy a camel ride at Elsen Tasarkhai and a horse ride in the beautiful Orkhon Valley.
  • Central to Northern Mongolia: Travel from the green landscapes of Central Mongolia to the forests and clear waters of the north.

Discover Central and Northern Mongolia and enjoy 12 days of beautiful scenery, peaceful lakes, green valleys, and Mongolia’s most memorable natural and cultural highlights.

FAQ

What about drivers and guides?

Drivers with Vehicles

Our experienced drivers know Mongolia’s paved roads, gravel tracks, and rugged terrain. We provide comfortable, reliable vehicles suited to different road conditions, including Toyota Delica, Toyota Hiace, Toyota Prado, and Hyundai Grand Starex. Vehicles are selected based on the group size, itinerary, and road conditions to ensure a safe and comfortable journey.

Tour guides

Our English-speaking guides have excellent knowledge of Mongolia’s history, culture, and landscapes. They are friendly, professional, and happy to share their knowledge throughout your Mongolia tour. Guides who speak other languages can be arranged upon request for an additional fee.

What accommodation is provided?

What are ger camps? ( Yurt)

Standard Ger Camps are like hotels, but instead of rooms, you sleep in a yurt. These camps are usually near famous places. A Standard Ger has 2 to 4 single beds, a small table, and a stove to keep warm. And sometimes a shelf or a small sink. There is no bathroom inside the ger. You will use clean toilets and hot showers in another building nearby. There is also a place to eat, and sometimes a small bar or game room.
Some camps have Ensuite Gers. These have a private bathroom inside the yurt. If you want this type, please tell us. We can book it for you, but it costs extra. Please note that ensuite gers are not available at all tourist destinations, and some camps have only a few ensuite gers.

What meals are included?

Meals on Your Mongolia Tour

Breakfast and dinner are provided at the ger camps, while lunch is usually served at local restaurants or cafés based on the day’s itinerary. In the Mongolian countryside, ger camps mainly serve traditional Mongolian food, along with some European-style dishes. Meals often include meat with vegetables, salads, or soup. Breakfast usually includes tea or coffee, bread, butter, jam, eggs, and sausage. Some ger camps also offer cereals, pancakes, cheese, and other options. When staying with nomadic families, you can enjoy authentic homemade Mongolian food and experience local cuisine.

Vegetarian meals and other dietary requirements can be arranged with advance notice. Please let us know about any allergies or restrictions when booking. We provide one 1.5-liter bottle of drinking water per person per day.

What should I bring with me?

Recommended Clothing for Mongolia

  • Warm layers – Mongolia’s climate can vary greatly, even in summer. Pack light and warm clothing such as sweaters, thermal tops, and a quality jacket.

  • Comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots – Ideal for exploring national parks, valleys, and countryside trails.

  • Waterproof jacket or rain poncho – Weather conditions can be unpredictable, so pack for possible rain.

  • Hat, gloves, and scarf – Especially useful for cool mornings and nights.

Health and Safety Essentials

  • Personal medications – Bring all necessary medications in their original packaging.

  • Basic first aid kit – Include items like band-aids, pain relievers, and any necessary personal care supplies.

  • Bug spray or insect repellent – Especially helpful during evenings or in grassland areas.

  • Sunscreen – The sun can be intense in Mongolia’s high-altitude regions.

Toiletries and Personal Care

To save space, bring travel-size toiletries and only what you’ll need:

  • Toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, and shampoo

  • Sunscreen and moisturizer to protect against dry air and sun exposure

  • Roll-on deodorant

  • Shaving cream (in tube or stick form) and extra razor blades

  • Wet wipes and dry tissues – useful when traveling in rural areas

Inquire About This Tour

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