16 Days Mongolia Panorama Tour: Gobi Desert, Lakes, Volcano & Ancient Capital (July 23, 2025)

On this day, you will take your scheduled flight to Mongolia. You will land at the New Ulaanbaatar International Airport (also known as Chinggis Khaan International Airport). Our local driver will meet you after you clear customs and collect your luggage, then transfer you to your hotel. The rest of today is free on your own to explore Ulaanbaatar city.

Arrival Options for Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia: International flights to Ulaanbaatar are available from major cities including Beijing, Hong Kong, Seoul, Tokyo, Moscow, Singapore, Istanbul, Chicago, Los Angeles, and New York.

Useful Travel Tips:

1. The best time to come to Mongolia is the summer season, during June-August. The temperature will be 20°C ~ 30°Cfor the period. You will have great fun for grassland tour, Naadam Festival. We strongly recommend booking your tickets 1-2 months in advance.
2. The airport is located 18 km southwest of Ulaanbaatar city center, approximately 40 minutes to 1 hour by car.
3. Standard hotel check-in time is 2:00 PM. Early check-in may be available upon request for an additional fee.

Meet your guide at 9:30 AM to begin your city tour of Ulaanbaatar.

Start the day with a visit to Gandan Monastery, home to the impressive 26-meter statue of Janraisag, the deity of compassion. While there, attend the morning chanting ceremony in one of the monastery’s historic temples, offering a serene and spiritual experience.

Next, head to Sükhbaatar Square, the heart of Ulaanbaatar. Admire the statues of Chinggis Khaan and his descendants in front of the State House, a central hub of history and culture.

Enjoy a welcome lunch at a local restaurant, where your guide will provide a comprehensive tour briefing, ensuring you’re well-prepared for the exciting adventures ahead.

In the afternoon, explore the newly established Chinggis Khaan Museum, which offers a fascinating overview of Mongolia's history, spanning from the Hunnu Empire to the Great Mongol Empire.

The evening is free for you to enjoy dinner at your leisure. Overnight in Ulaanbaatar city.

On this day, you will travel from Ulaanbaatar to Tsagaan Suvarga, a journey of about 420 km that takes 6-7 hours by car. Along the way, you will stop for lunch in Mandalgovi town. Upon arrival at the Ger camp, you will check in and prepare for an exciting adventure.

The name "Tsagaan Suvarga" means "White Stupa" in Mongolian. It is named after its appearance - this geological formation has white, pink, and reddish-brown layers of rock that look like a giant white stupa (Buddhist monument) when viewed from a distance.

The cliffs are up to 30 meters (98 feet) tall and stretch over 400 meters (1,312 feet), providing stunning views from every angle. Their colors change throughout the day, shifting from white to pink, orange, and reddish-brown.

In the afternoon, you will take an excursion to the Tsagaan Suvarga scarps, where you can enjoy an unforgettable hike through the colorful cliffs. Climb to the top for breathtaking views. At sunset, the cliffs glow in golden and pink hues, making it a dream spot for some awesome photos.

After this refreshing adventure, we will return to the ger camp, enjoy a tasty dinner, and relax for the night in comfort.

On this day, after breakfast, we embark on an exciting adventure to Gobi Gurvan Saikhan National Park. As Mongolia's largest national park, it is renowned for its diverse desert landscapes, unique wildlife, and iconic landmarks such as Yolyn Am Gorge. The drive will take about 4-5 hours, offering picturesque views of the Gobi Desert along the way. There will be ample opportunities for scenic photography stops to capture the beauty of the vast and open landscapes.

Our journey will make a stop in Dalanzadgad, a charming town in the heart of the Gobi. Here, we will visit the newly constructed Umnugovi Province Museum and enjoy lunch.

At the Umnugovi Province Museum, you’ll have the chance to explore a fascinating collection of dinosaur fossils and learn about the unique flora and fauna of the Gobi Desert. Highlights include displays of rare animals such as the snow leopard, ibex, and the critically endangered Gobi bear (Mazaalai).

After exploring Dalanzadgad, we will continue with a short drive to the breathtaking Yolyn Am Gorge, also known as Eagle Valley. This natural wonder is nestled within Gobi Gurvan Saikhan National Park and is renowned for its towering rock walls, which rise 200-300 meters (650-980 feet) high, creating dramatic and enclosed atmosphere. In some sections, the gorge is so narrow that only one person can pass through at a time, adding to its sense of mystery and beauty.

Once we arrive, you’ll have the opportunity to enjoy one-hour hike from the parking area. The hike will immerse you in the gorge’s stunning natural beauty, with its cool, shaded paths and diverse wildlife. Take a moment to appreciate the serene atmosphere, the sound of running streams, and the incredible views.

After our exploration of Yolyn Am, we will transfer to the ger camp. Enjoy your dinner here. Relax under the vast Mongolian sky and prepare for the adventures ahead.

In the early morning, we set off on 4 to 5-hour drive to the magnificent Khongor Sand Dunes, traversing vast desert badlands that stretch to the distant horizons, adorned with remote mountains.

The Khongor Sand Dunes, world’s nature wonder, are one of Mongolia's largest and most spectacular sand formations, famously known as the "singing" or "booming" sands. These dunes span about 180 kilometers in length, 15-20 kilometers in width, and reach heights of 80-100 meters at their tallest points. The golden-yellow sands shimmer under the sunlight, creating a truly splendid landscape. When the sand shifts or the wind blows, the dunes emit a low, rumbling sound, giving them their unique name.

Upon reaching our ger camp, we will enjoy a satisfying lunch. Later in the afternoon, as the desert heat subsides, we will meet a local camel herder and partake in a serene one-hour camel ride. We'll then ascend the dunes to witness a mesmerizing sunset from their summit. After this memorable experience, we return to the camp for dinner and a peaceful night's rest.

Hello travelers, you will wake up amidst the vast Khongor Sand Dunes. Start your day early to witness the enchanting sunrise in the heart of the wilderness, followed by a hearty breakfast at the camp.

This morning, our journey takes us to the Khavtsgait Petroglyphs, nestled within the Dund Saikhan Mountain. Here, we will trek to the mountain and explore a captivating natural gallery of Bronze Age rock paintings.

Continuing our journey north, we head to the renowned Bayanzag, also known as the Flaming Cliffs. Famous for its stunning red sandstone landscapes, Bayanzag is one of the most significant dinosaur fossil sites in the world. Its vibrant red cliffs and hills, glowing under the rising or setting sun, earned it the name "Flaming Cliffs." In the 1920s, American explorer Roy Chapman Andrews discovered a remarkable collection of dinosaur fossils here, including the world’s first fossilized dinosaur eggs and skeletons of species such as Protoceratops and Velociraptor.

Upon arrival, visit the information center to gain deeper insights through exhibits and a documentary. Immerse yourself in the wilderness by hiking along designated trails to explore the unique natural formations. You’ll also encounter distinctive desert plants, like the Saxaul tree, a remarkable drought-resistant species.

As the day ends, we’ll settle at our camp, enjoy a delicious dinner, and relax with a comfortable overnight stay.

After enjoying breakfast, we embark on a northbound journey to the Ongi Monastery ruins, located by the scenic Ongi River. This picturesque drive takes approximately 4-5 hours, crossing the expansive and breathtaking Ongi steppe.

Upon arrival at our ger camp, we will gather for satisfying lunch. In the afternoon, we will explore the remnants of the historic Ongi Monastery. Once a thriving Buddhist center, the ruins now serve as a hauntingly beautiful reminder of Mongolia's rich religious and historical heritage. Nestled by the river and surrounded by the stark yet striking landscape of the Gobi Desert and gentle hills, the monastery provides a rare oasis of greenery in this arid region.

Founded in the 17th century, the monastery grew to become one of Mongolia’s largest and most significant. At its peak, it featured two main complexes on opposite sides of the river, with over 30 temples and more than 1,000 monks.

After exploring the ruins, enjoy delicious dinner and spend the night at the ger camp.

Today, our journey takes us further north into central Mongolia. We’ll embark on a scenic 4-5-hour drive, crossing the vast Gobi steppes before transitioning into the central Mongolian steppe.

Along the way, we’ll pause for lunch at a convenient spot along the main highway leading to the western province. Afterward, we’ll continue for another 1-2 hours, possibly making a stop to visit a nomadic family, before reaching Karakorum.

Once in Karakorum, the ancient capital of the Mongol Empire, we’ll visit the Karakorum Museum, which offers a fascinating overview of the region’s history and introduces us to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Orkhon River Valley.

After the museum visit, we’ll head to our ger camp, where we’ll check in and enjoy a delicious dinner. The evening will conclude with comfortable overnight stay, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the rich cultural and historical heritage of this remarkable region.

Note: Today, travelers joining the Northern Mongolia portion of the tour will arrive, while some group members who completed the Southern Mongolia journey will depart the next day.

Following breakfast, our day begins with a visit to the renowned Erdene Zuu Monastery, a historic landmark founded in 1586, and the first Buddhist monastery in Central Mongolia.

From there, we continue our journey to Tsetserleg, the capital town of Arkhangai Province, which boasts over 300 years of history, dating back to the establishment of Zayiin Gegeen Monastery in the 1680s.

Upon arriving in Tsetserleg, we’ll enjoy lunch at a local restaurant. In the afternoon, our exploration continues with a visit to Zayiin Gegeen Monastery, which now operates as a museum. Following this, we’ll explore the town’s bustling Bazaar, a lively marketplace where both residents and nomads gather to stock up on supplies.

Our journey then takes us to the Tamir River Valley, where we’ll find our next tourist ger camp, located near the historic Taikhar Rock. Here, you’ll even have the opportunity to try yak riding for a unique experience.

The day concludes with hearty dinner and comfortable overnight stay at the camp.

Today, we begin our northbound expedition with an early start. Our route covers a distance of just over 200 kilometers, mostly on well-paved roads.

One of the highlights of the journey is a visit to the Jargalantyn Am Natural Deer Stone Complex, also known as the Natural Museum, which dates back to the early Bronze Age. This remarkable site provides a fascinating glimpse into ancient history and has been recognized as part of UNESCO's Cultural Heritage List.

On our way to the park, we’ll pause briefly at the Chuluut River Canyon, where you’ll have the chance to capture stunning photographs of this picturesque landscape.

Our journey will conclude at our camp, located beside the tranquil Terkiin Tsagaan Lake. Here, we’ll enjoy delicious dinner and settle in for peaceful overnight stay, surrounded by the lake’s natural beauty.

In the morning, we begin our day with an invigorating hike through the volcanic landscape surrounding Lake Terkhiin Tsagaan, often referred to as the “Great White Lake”. This serene lake lies nestled within the embrace of towering hills, renowned for its crystal-clear waters and expansive sandy beaches.

Our route follows a winding path along the lake's shoreline, passing by eerie Shamanic formations of black lava before heading slightly inland toward the Khorgo Volcano. Though now dormant, the volcano holds a significant place in the traditions of the local nomadic communities. A brief walk takes us to the rim of the crater, where crimson-streaked rocks descend into a profound chasm, surrounded by sacred Ovoo mounds. From this vantage point, you’ll enjoy a spectacular view of Lake Terkhiin Tsagaan, framed by the surrounding hills and a small mountain pass.

The afternoon is free for relaxation or optional activities such as boating or fishing.

As evening comes, we’ll gather for delicious dinner at the ger camp located along the tranquil lakeshore, where we’ll spend a peaceful night immersed in the natural beauty of the area.

Today, we embark on a northern journey, traveling through the stunning Khuvsgul Mountains and crossing the majestic Orookh Pass along the way. The Khuvsgul Mountains showcase a diverse range of landscapes, from rugged, earth-toned rock formations to steep, verdant slopes that rise dramatically above winding river valleys and isolated ger encampments.

This picturesque drive spans approximately 6-7 hours, with a stop along the way for a delightful picnic lunch, allowing you to take in the breathtaking scenery.

Our destination is the Ulziit Khishig camp, located within the Tumurbulag soum territory. Upon arrival at the ger camp, we’ll have the chance to savor a traditional Mongolian culinary specialty known as Khorkhog - a unique barbecue dish featuring mutton cooked with heated stones. This authentic and flavorful dish offers a true taste of Mongolian tradition.

After enjoying this delicious meal, we’ll come together for a satisfying dinner, followed by a peaceful overnight stay at the ger camp, surrounded by the tranquil beauty of the region.

After enjoying breakfast, we begin our journey toward the enchanting Lake Khuvsgul. Before arriving at the lake, we’ll make a noteworthy stop to explore the Uushig Deer Stones, a UNESCO Cultural Heritage Site. These ancient monuments provide fascinating insights into Mongolia’s rich history and cultural legacy.

Following this intriguing visit, we’ll continue to Lake Khuvsgul, where we’ll enjoy lunch at a cozy ger restaurant.

In the afternoon, our picturesque drive from Murun to Lake Khuvsgul spans just over 150 kilometers, taking us through a landscape of lush green hills adorned with rugged rock formations. Along the way, we’ll traverse river valleys, where braided channels weave through fertile valley floors, creating a stunning natural tapestry. Keep an eye on the skies, as they are often graced by the presence of majestic birds of prey.

As we near the settlement of Khatgal and enter the forested terrain surrounding the lake, the road may become a bit uneven. However, the effort is well worth it as we are rewarded with the breathtaking sight of Lake Khuvsgul, one of Mongolia’s most pristine natural wonders.

Our ger camp, conveniently located near the lake, will be our home for the night. The remainder of the day is yours to enjoy at leisure, allowing you to unwind, explore, and soak in the serene beauty of Lake Khuvsgul and its tranquil surroundings.

Start your morning with a delightful two-hour horseback ride along the picturesque lakeshore of Lake Khuvsgul. The remainder of the day is dedicated to leisure and exploration, allowing you to fully enjoy the captivating surroundings of this pristine natural wonder.

There are plenty of ways to make the most of your time, including optional activities such as hiking, boat excursions, or a kayaking adventure on the lake’s tranquil waters. These activities provide an opportunity to immerse yourself in the beauty and serenity of this breathtaking landscape.

In the early evening, we bid farewell to the scenic Lake Khuvsgul and travel to Murun town, where we’ll board a flight back to Ulaanbaatar. The flight duration is approximately 1 hour.

Upon landing at the airport in Ulaanbaatar, you’ll be seamlessly transferred to your hotel for a comfortable and restful evening.

Enjoy a leisurely morning at your own pace. At 2:00 PM, meet your guide to visit the State Department Store in Ulaanbaatar, where you can shop for cashmere products and souvenirs, perfect for remembering your journey.

As the day draws to a close, immerse yourself in Mongolia's rich cultural heritage by attending a traditional folklore concert, showcasing vibrant music, dance, and throat singing.

The day concludes with a heartfelt farewell dinner, a fitting celebration to mark the end of your unforgettable journey.

After breakfast, you will be transferred to the airport for your departure, or to the train station for your onward journey to explore other parts of Mongolia. If your flight is in the afternoon today, you will have some free time to explore Ulaanbaatar at your own pace.

It is time to end your 16 Days Mongolia Tour to Southern, Central, Northern Attractions. Thank you for choosing Asia Odyssey Travel for your Mongolia tour. We hope to see you again on your next journey!