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Join our 16-day Mongolia overland tour through Mongolia’s Gobi Desert, Central, and Northern regions. Explore wide deserts, rolling steppes, green forests, and nomadic culture. Discover the best of Mongolia on one amazing journey.

Day 1

Genghis Khan Statue & Terelj National Park

Pick you up at 9:00 AM. First, visit the impressive Genghis Khan Statue Complex, the largest horse statue in the world. Explore the museum and enjoy panoramic views from the top.

Next, head to Terelj National Park, one of Mongolia’s most scenic and popular parks. On the way, stop at the famous Turtle Rock.

A short drive brings you to the peaceful Ariyabal Meditation Temple, offering great views and a short, scenic hike.

Distance: 100km ( 2h drive on paved road )
Standard Ger Camp ( Lunch/ Dinner)

Day 2

Baga gazarin chuluu

After breakfast, we head to Baga Gazariin Chuluu, a stunning rocky area in the Middle Gobi.

This unique spot stretches 15 km long and 10 km wide, filled with dramatic rock formations. It stands out from the flat desert, offering amazing views and photo opportunities.

You’ll have time to walk, hike, and explore the area while enjoying the peaceful Gobi landscape.

Distance: 295km ( 5h drive on paved/ dirt road )
Standard Ger Camp ( Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner)

Day 3

Tsagaan Suvarga (White Stupa)

Today,  our Mongolia overland tour heads to Tsagaan Suvarga, also known as the White Stupa. This beautiful cliff formation stands out with its bright layers of white, yellow, red, and orange. The colors come from natural minerals and clay in the rock.

It’s a great place to walk around, take photos, and enjoy the wide-open views of the Gobi Desert.

Distance: 255km ( 5h drive on paved/ dirt road )
Standard Ger Camp ( Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner)

Day 4

Explore Yol Valley

Yol Valley is a narrow, beautiful spot in Gobi Gurvansaikhan National Park.

Tall cliffs and rocks surround the valley. You can hike through narrow paths and see a glacier that melts by late June. Enjoy the fresh air, spot wildlife, and take great photos.

Distance: 230km ( 5h drive on paved road )
Standard Ger Camp ( Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner)

Day 5

Khongor Sand Dunes

One of the top experiences on our Mongolia overland tour is today’s visit to the magnificent Khongor Sand Dunes. These towering dunes stretch for over 180 kilometers, with some reaching heights of 800 meters.

Climbing these dunes can be tough for many people. But when you get to the top, you’ll see an amazing view of the desert. Experience riding on two-humped Bactrian camels.

Distance: 180km ( 5h drive on paved/ dirt road )
Standard Ger Camp ( Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner)

Day 6

Bayanzag- flaming cliffs

After breakfast, we drive to Bayanzag, famously known as the Flaming Cliffs. This iconic site is where the first dinosaur eggs were discovered by American explorer Roy Chapman Andrews.

The red cliffs glow at sunset, making it a photographer’s dream in the Gobi Desert.

Distance: 130km ( 4h drive on dirt road )
Standard Ger Camp ( Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner)

Day 7

Explore the Ruins of Ongi Monastery

Ongi Monastery was one of the largest and most respected in Mongolia. Unfortunately, it was destroyed in 1939 during the communist purge.

Today, only ruins remain. But even with little left, it’s a fascinating place to visit. You can walk through the ruins, enjoy the views, and imagine its powerful past.

Distance: 150km ( 5h drive on dirt road )
Standard Ger Camp ( Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner)

Day 8

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: 250km ( 7h drive on dirt road )
Standard Ger Camp ( Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner)

Day 9

Tsenkher Hot Springs

Visit the peaceful Tsenkher Hot Springs, a popular spot to relax in nature. The warm, mineral-rich waters are known for their healing effects and help soothe tired muscles.

Set among forested hills, the springs offer a calm retreat after days of adventure. Whether you’re looking to unwind, snap photos, or enjoy a wellness break, Tsenkher is the perfect place to recharge.

Distance: 130km ( 4h drive on dirt road )
Standard Ger Camp ( Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner)

Day 10

Terkh Lake & Khorgo Volcano

Explore Khorgo-Terkhiin Tsagaan Nuur National Park, one of Mongolia’s hidden gems. Known for its volcanic landscapes and the clear waters of Terkh Lake, it’s the perfect escape into nature.

Hike around the peaceful lake and climb Khorgo Volcano, a dormant crater that offers stunning panoramic views. It’s an ideal spot for nature lovers and photography. Enjoy a one-hour horse riding.

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

Day 11

Shine Ider Village: A Peaceful Stop Between Khuvsgul and Arkhangai

Shine Ider Village is officially part of Khuvsgul province, but it sits right on the border with Arkhangai. Many travelers stop here to rest while heading to Central Mongolia.

The village is surrounded by beautiful forests and wide grasslands. This peaceful landscape makes it a great place to relax and take a break from the road.

Distance: 160km ( 6h drive on dirt road )
Standard Ger Camp ( Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner )

Day 12

Lake Khuvsgul

Start your day with a scenic drive to Khuvsgul Lake, one of Mongolia’s top travel destinations. Lake Khuvsgul, the “Blue Pearl of Mongolia,” is one of the highlights of this tour.

The lake is known for its crystal-clear water, peaceful surroundings, and breathtaking mountain views. It’s a great spot for hiking, relaxing in nature, and learning about the Tsaatan people, a local reindeer-herding community known for their rich cultural traditions.

Distance: 200km ( 6h drive on dirt/ paved road )
Standard Ger Camp ( Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner )

Day 13

Relax at Khuvsgul Lake

Today, enjoy the calm beauty of Khuvsgul Lake, known as Mongolia’s “Blue Pearl.” Take a peaceful walk, breathe the fresh mountain air, and take in the stunning views.

We’ll also meet the Tsaatan reindeer herders. In summer, some move near the lake with their reindeer, offering a rare glimpse into their nomadic lifestyle.

Standard Ger Camp ( Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner )

Day 14

Discover Urantogoo Volcano

Today, we’ll stop at Urantogoo, an extinct volcano in Bulgan province. It’s a perfect place to rest during your trip to or from Khuvsgul Lake.

Take a short hike to the top. From there, enjoy wide, open views of the land around you. The peaceful nature and fresh air make it a great spot to relax and explore.

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

Day 15

Visit Amarbayasgalant Monastery

Today, we’ll visit Amarbayasgalant Monastery, one of Mongolia’s most peaceful and beautiful sites.

Set in a quiet valley, it’s a perfect place to learn about Mongolian culture and Buddhism. Walk through old temples, see stunning Buddhist art, and enjoy the calm surroundings.

Distance: 245km ( 7h drive on paved/ dirt road )
Standard Ger Camp ( Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner )

Day 16

Return to Ulaanbaatar 

After breakfast, we’ll drive back to Ulaanbaatar. You’ll be dropped off at your hotel or guesthouse.

This marks the end of your 16-day Mongolia overland tour. We hope you had an unforgettable adventure!

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

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Tsagaan Sar Mongolia is the country’s most important traditional holiday, marking the Lunar New Year and celebrating themes of renewal, peace, family unity, and ancestral respect. Deeply rooted in Mongolian nomadic culture, Tsagaan Sar blends spiritual rituals, generational customs, and festive gatherings.

When Is Tsagaan Sar Celebrated in Mongolia?

The celebration of Tsagaan Sar in Mongolia follows the lunar calendar, usually falling between late January and early March. The festival officially begins on the first day of the first spring month, known as Shiniin Negen. Preparations start the day before, during Bituun (New Year’s Eve).

• February 17 to 20, 2026
• February 6 to 8, 2027
• February 24 to 26, 2028
• February 13 to 15, 2029
• February 3 to 5, 2030

What Does Tsagaan Sar Symbolize in Mongolian Culture?

The word “Tsagaan” means white, symbolizing purity, peace, and new beginnings. In Mongolian culture, Tsagaan Sar represents:

• Family harmony

• Forgiveness and reconciliation

• Spiritual and seasonal renewal

• Respect for elders and ancestors

Bituun – Lunar New Year’s Eve Rituals

On Bituun, or New Year’s Eve, Mongolian families prepare for Tsagaan Sar by:

• Cleaning their homes thoroughly to remove negative energy

• Preparing special dishes, especially meat and dairy

• Lighting candles or butter lamps

• Avoiding conflict to ensure a peaceful new year

Zolgokh – Greeting and Respect

A key ritual of Tsagaan Sar Mongolia is Zolgokh, a formal greeting to show respect and connection:

• The younger person places their arms beneath the elder’s, palms up

• They say, “Amar baina uu?” (Are you at peace?)

• Families exchange snuff bottles (khuurug) and give warm wishes

 Tsagaan Sar Mongolia Food Traditions

Food is at the heart of Tsagaan Sar celebrations in Mongolia. The holiday feast includes:

• Buuз (steamed dumplings) – a symbol of prosperity

• Uuts – Boiled sheep’s back, representing wealth and honor

• Tavgiin idee – Layered dried dairy pyramid with aaruul, ezgii, and urum

• Milk tea (Suutei tsai) and boortsog (fried dough pastries)

• Airag – Fermented mare’s milk, a traditional Mongolian drink

Clothing and Cultural Dress

People wear traditional Mongolian clothing during Tsagaan Sar, especially the deel:

• Made from silk or brocade in vibrant colors

• Worn with a sash (bus) and boots (gutal)

• Elders often wear specially tailored festive deels

Wearing traditional attire symbolizes respect for heritage and pride in national identity.

Gift-Giving and Visiting

Gift-giving is an essential part of Lunar new year. Customs include:

• Visiting relatives and neighbors over several days

• Bringing practical or symbolic gifts such as food, money, or household goods

• Elders blessing children and young family members

These traditions promote generosity and family unity.

Modern Tsagaan Sar Celebrations in Mongolia

In modern-day Mongolia, especially in cities like Ulaanbaatar, Tsagaan Sar is celebrated with both traditional and contemporary elements:

• Urban families may celebrate with simplified customs

• Television specials and concerts air nationwide

• People travel to home provinces to reunite with family

Cultural and Spiritual Significance

Tsagaan Sar is more than just a New Year holiday—it’s a spiritual and cultural milestone:

• Reflects shamanistic and Buddhist traditions

• Encourages inner peace, balance with nature, and ancestral reverence

• Connects Mongolians to their nomadic roots and national identity

Summary: Why Tsagaan Sar Is Mongolia’s Most Cherished Holiday

• Tsagaan Sar Mongolia celebrates the Lunar New Year with rich traditions, food, and family values

• Emphasizes renewal, respect, and togetherness

• One of the most deeply respected holidays in Mongolian history and culture

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The Golden Eagle Festival is one of the most exciting and unique events in the world. It takes place every October in western Mongolia, in a town called Ölgii. The festival started in 1999 and has grown bigger every year. Today, it is the largest event for eagle hunters and their birds.

The Golden Eagle Festival: A Tradition Like No Other

The Kazakh people of Mongolia have been hunting with golden eagles for hundreds of years. This tradition is passed down from one generation to the next. At the festival, hunters wear traditional clothes and show their skills.

One of the main events is the eagle hunting competition. Here’s how it works: hunters climb a hill and release their trained eagles. The eagles fly down to catch a moving target—usually a piece of fur pulled by someone on horseback. Judges watch closely. They score the eagles based on their speed, focus, and success.

More Than Just Eagle Hunting

But the Golden Eagle Festival isn’t only about hunting. There’s much more to see and do. Visitors can enjoy:

• Traditional Kazakh music and dance

• Colorful clothing and costumes

• Local food, including hot meat dishes and dairy snacks

• Horse and camel races

• Craft displays with handmade items like carpets, bags, and jewelry

You’ll also meet many friendly locals. Many families open their homes, called gers (yurts), to guests. Staying in a ger is a great way to learn about nomadic life in Mongolia.

Why the Golden Eagle Festival Is a Photographer’s Dream

If you love photography, you’ll love this festival. The views are stunning. You’ll see snow-capped mountains, wide-open valleys, and golden eagles flying through the sky. The hunters’ clothes are also bright and beautiful, making for amazing pictures.

How to Get There

The festival is held in Ölgii, a small city in western Mongolia. You can fly there from Ulaanbaatar, the capital city. Some people also drive or take a tour bus. Either way, the journey is an adventure on its own.

Why You Should Go

The Golden Eagle Festival is a chance to step into another world. It’s a mix of sport, tradition, and culture. You’ll learn a lot, meet amazing people, and see things you can’t find anywhere else. It’s a perfect trip for anyone who loves travel, nature, and history.

Start Planning Today

Want to see something truly special? Visit the Golden Eagle Festival in Mongolia this October. Book a Golden eagle festival tour, pack your camera, and get ready for an unforgettable experience.

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The Blue Pearl Ice Festival is Mongolia’s premier winter celebration, held annually on the frozen surface of Lake Khövsgöl in northern Mongolia. This unique event showcases the country’s rich cultural heritage and the stunning beauty of its winter landscapes.

Ice Festival Mongolia: Location

The festival takes place in Khatgal village, located in Khuvsgul Province, at the southern tip of Lake Khövsgöl. This pristine area is renowned for its clear blue waters and surrounding snow-capped mountains, providing a breathtaking backdrop for the festivities.

Ice Festival Mongolia: Festival Highlights

The Blue Pearl Ice Festival Mongolia offers a diverse array of activities that celebrate Mongolia’s winter traditions:

• Traditional Competitions: Participants engage in ice sumo wrestling, horse-drawn sleigh races, ice skating races, tug-of-war, and archery contests.

• Cultural Performances: Local shamans perform rituals, and there are musical and dance performances that highlight Mongolia’s cultural diversity.

• Unique Traditions: The festival includes traditional games such as ankle bone shooting (shagai), ice sculpture contests, and the “Great Fire of Mother Lake,” a ritual that honors the spiritual significance of the lake.

• Community Engagement: Visitors have the opportunity to interact with local herders and nomadic reindeer herders, gaining insight into their traditional lifestyles.

Climate and Preparation

During Ice Festival Mongolia, temperatures can be extremely cold, often dropping below -20°C. It’s advisable to dress warmly in layers, including thermal clothing, insulated outerwear, and accessories like gloves, hats, and scarves.

Cultural Significance

The Blue Pearl Ice Festival celebrates Mongolia’s winter. It serves as a platform to promote winter tourism. It also aims to preserve the natural environment of Lake Khövsgöl. The festival has evolved from a local event into an international attraction. It draws visitors from around the world. These visitors come to experience Mongolia’s unique winter culture.

 Plan Your Visit

• Dates: in March

• Location: Khatgal Village, Khuvsgul Province, Mongolia

• Activities: Traditional competitions, cultural performances, ice sculptures, winter adventures

• Weather: Expect temperatures below -20°C; dress warmly

Whether you’re seeking adventure, cultural immersion, or simply a unique winter experience, the Blue Pearl Ice Festival offers something for everyone. Don’t miss the chance to be part of this unforgettable celebration of Mongolia’s winter heritage.

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Karakorum sits in the center of Mongolia, in the beautiful Orkhon Valley. Long ago, it was the capital city of the Mongol Empire, from 1235 to 1263.

Even though the city became famous in the 1200s, its story began much earlier. People may have started living in the area around 750 AD. But in 1220, Genghis Khan chose it as his base. From there, he planned many of his major military campaigns, including his attack on China.

As time went on, Karakorum grew into a busy and important city. It became a center for government, culture, and skilled craftsmanship. The best builders and artists of the time helped design and build it. Because of this, the city became known for its beauty and advanced way of life.

Sadly, Karakorum’s golden age didn’t last. It was badly damaged during a time of civil war and fighting within the empire. In 1267, Kublai Khan moved the capital to Khanbaliq (now Beijing). Later, in 1388, Ming dynasty soldiers destroyed what was left of Karakorum. Today, only ruins remain of what was once a great city.

Erdene Zuu Monastery: Mongolia’s First Buddhist Monastery

A few hundred years later, something new was built on the old site of Karakorum. In 1586, a powerful prince named Avtai Khan founded Erdene Zuu Monastery. It became the first Buddhist monastery in Mongolia.

Today, this monastery is one of the most special and spiritual places in the country. It’s surrounded by a stone wall decorated with 108 stupas, a holy number in Buddhism. The buildings inside show a deep connection between faith and Mongolian art.

At its height, Erdene Zuu was full of life. It had 60 to 100 temples, over 300 traditional Mongolian gers (felt tents), and was home to almost 1,000 monks.

Visitors can still see beautiful artwork from the 17th to 19th centuries. Inside the monastery, there are colorful paintings, carved wood, embroidery, and statues. Talented Mongolian artists and craftspeople made all of them.

The Stone Turtles of Kharkhorum

Just outside the monastery, you’ll see two ancient stone turtles. These were once part of the original city of Karakorum. In the past, there were four turtles, each placed at a corner of the city to protect it and mark its borders.

These stone turtles are more than just statues. In ancient times, each one held a stone slab (called a stele) on its back. These slabs had important writings carved into them.

Not far from the turtles, there’s a raised area behind a wire fence. Many believe this is where the palace of Ögedei Khan once stood. He was Genghis Khan’s third son and played a big role in the growth of the Mongol Empire.

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