Take our Small Group Japan Cherry
Blossom Tour - Save $200 Early Bird! | Book by Oct 31, 2025, and secure your spot! >>
Focus on Essential Highlights in Central Mongolia (Diverse Experience)
Short on Time? Maximize your experience with our 5-day Central Mongolia tour! We take you to Ulaanbaatar, Karakorum, stunning National Parks, and even the breathtaking Gobi Desert.
History, Culture & Art in Ulaanbaatar & Karakorum
Take a city walk through Ulaanbaatar, visiting squares and museums to uncover the history of Genghis Khan's Empire, Mongolian culture, and the fascinating art of throat singing. Dive into history at the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Karakorum, the ancient capital of the Mongolian Empire.
Wild Adventure on Grasslands, Mini Desert & National Parks
Visit Terelj National Park and Khustai National Park, where wild beauty surrounds you. Enjoy horse riding and immerse yourself in nomadic family life. Extend your journey to the Gobi Desert, exploring the stunning Elsen Tasarkhai Sand Dunes with a camel riding adventure.
It’s truly history and culture, wild and fun! Explore with Asia Odyssey Travel now!
(Tip: This is a private tour, available from June 1 to October 1, 2025/2026.)
View Destinations
Ulaanbaatar (0.5 Day)
Giant Chinggis statue complex in Tsonjin Boldog
Terelj National Park (0.5 Day)
Aryabal Temple of Meditation, Turtle Rock
Hustai National Park (1 Day)
Hustai National Park, Takhi Wild Horses, Nomadic Family Visit, Horse Riding, Archery
Elsen Tasarkhai (0.5 Day)
Khugnu Khan Nature Reserve, Camel Riding (1 Hour)
Karakorum (1 Day)
Erdene Zuu Monastery, Ancient Karakorum Ruins, Orkhon Valley
Ulaanbaatar (1.5 Day)
Sukhbaatar Square, Morin Khuur Museum, Throat Singing Lesson
On this day, you will take your scheduled flight to Mongolia and land at the New Ulaanbaatar International Airport (also known as Chinggis Khaan International Airport).
After completing customs formalities, you will meet our guide and driver at the airport. From there, transfer to the Giant Chinggis Statue Complex in Tsonjin Boldog, home to the world’s tallest equestrian statue. Upon arrival, explore the statue complex, including its museum and viewing platform. Climb up to the platform in the horse’s head, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
Next, travel to Terelj National Park, a stunning natural reserve known for its unique rock formations and serene beauty. Optional horse riding is available in the area. Visit the Aryabal Temple of Meditation, perched atop a hill, offering a peaceful setting and panoramic views of the park.
End the day with delicious dinner at ger camp, and spend the night in cozy Mongolian yurt, fully embracing the tranquility of the countryside.
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:
Dining:
Accommodation:
This morning, you will leave Terelj National Park for 4-hour drive to Hustai National Park, renowned for its successful reintroduction of the Przewalski’s horse (Takhi) - the last remaining wild horse species in the world.
Upon arrival, we will observe the magnificent Takhi wild horses and other wildlife (such as red deer, Mongolian gazelles, wild boars, grey wolves, lynx, and foxes) in their natural habitat.
In the afternoon, enjoy a nomadic show and experience the daily life of a traditional Mongolian family. Learn how dairy products are made and taste some of their creations. Watch demonstrations of milking yaks and mares, as well as fastening and milking sheep and goats. You’ll also see the process of felt tanning firsthand.
We will then try horseback riding (1 hour) and shoot Mongolian archery (equipment provided, but no instructor).
In the evening, return to your accommodation to relax and enjoy a peaceful night surrounded by nature.
Dining:Accommodation:
Today, we continue our journey westward into the Orkhon Valley, a region rich in history and natural beauty. The scenic drive will take 4-5 hours, leading us through the picturesque central Mongolian before arriving at this historical valley.
On the way, we’ll stop for lunch at a local restaurant near the dunes. After lunch, we will visit Khugnu Tarna Sands (part of the Elsen Tasarkhai Sand Dunes) and enjoy 1-hour camel ride, immersing ourselves in the serene desert landscape.
Afterward, we’ll continue with short drive to Karakorum, the ancient capital of the Mongol Empire. Upon arrival, we’ll visit the legendary Erdene Zuu Monastery, founded in 1586 as the first Buddhist monastery in Central Mongolia. Nearby, you can explore fascinating landmarks such as Turtle Rock and the symbolic Phallic Stone, each with its own unique stories and cultural significance.
The Erdene Zuu Monastery holds the title of the oldest surviving Buddhist monastery in Mongolia and is a true treasure of Tibetan Buddhism’s Gelugpa (Yellow Hat) sect. As part of the Orkhon Valley Cultural Landscape UNESCO site, its history is deeply intertwined with the legacy of the Mongol Empire. Notably, much of the monastery’s construction material came from the ruins of ancient Karakorum, beautifully blending Mongolia’s imperial past with its profound religious heritage. Its architecture reflects a unique fusion of Mongolian, Tibetan, and Chinese styles.
As you approach, the 108 white stupas, forming a rectangular wall, will immediately catch your eye. These stupas, symbolic of enlightenment and protection, create a stunning visual experience. Step inside the monastery to discover surviving temples adorned with intricate carvings, vibrant thangka paintings, and ornate roofs. Take a moment to observe monks chanting and performing Buddhist rituals, and feel free to spin the prayer wheels, making your own wishes.
Upon arrival at our ger camp, we’ll check in and settle down for dinner. The evening will conclude with comfortable overnight stay.
Dining:Accommodation:
After breakfast, we will travel back to Ulaanbaatar (5-6-hour drive), including a lunch break along the way. Upon arrival in Ulaanbaatar, we will transfer to the hotel for check-in and refreshment.
In the afternoon, we’ll enjoy a short city tour, beginning with Sukhbaatar Square (also known as Chinggis Khaan Square). This iconic square is surrounded by Soviet-era historical buildings alongside modern skyscrapers. Originally named after D. Sükhbaatar, the hero of Mongolia's 1921 revolution, the square is steeped in history. Take a leisurely stroll here and admire the impressive Damdin Sükhbaatar Statue, the State Palace, the Chinggis Khaan Monument, and the vibrant surroundings that make this square the city’s activity hub.
Later in the afternoon, we will visit Morin Khuur Museum, where you can learn about the origin and legends of the Morin Khuur (the horsehead fiddle) and its significance in the life of Mongolia’s nomadic people. Explore the materials (such as wood and horsehair) and tools used to craft this traditional instrument.
Additionally, we’ll have 1-hour introductory lesson on Throat Singing, a fascinating traditional Mongolian vocal art form.
Optional shopping for souvenirs will be available if time permits. End the day with dinner at a local restaurant.
Dining:Accommodation:
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 5 Days Mongolia essential tour. Thank you for choosing Asia Odyssey Travel for your Mongolia Tour. We hope to see you again on your next journey!
Dining:Accommodation:
What's Included:
What's Excluded:
Ger camps, featuring the traditional roundhouses of nomadic life, are the main accommodation in the countryside during the tours. The ger camps are located close to the main attractions or in scenic areas in the appropriate day’s driving distance from one another.
Mongolian camp has approximately 15-40 gers, a large ger restaurant or a house restaurant serves European and Mongolian meals. Some ger camps have game rooms and open playgrounds. Flush toilets and showers are located in separate blocks from the ger accommodations. There are several ger camps featuring attached private bathroom gers and those gers are considered ensuite.
If you wish to stay at the ensuite gers, please inform us in advance and we will gladly arrange the ensuite gers for an additional fee. The ger camp staff work hard to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay for their guests. Some of the ger camp staff speak basic English while others speak English and other languages fluently.
Many tourists find that “The gers are a cozy and comfortable accommodation.” A ger is a traditional Mongolian felt-covered roundhouse style structure with a wooden frame; the main feature of gers is that they are collapsible and portable homes, suitable for nomadic living. The exterior and interior walls and roof of modern gers are covered with white canvas making them more comfortable and airy living spaces. A center-top window and bottom natural air conditioner design of this round shaped, circle dwelling allow the gers to always have air circulation and good energy.Therefore, gers at camps are not equipped with air conditioners, as Mongolia’s windy climate, along with the roof window and lower openings, provides effective natural ventilation.
Each ger accommodation features 2-4 single beds with clean linens, an alter, night tables, a dining table, chairs, hangers and a charming wood burning stove. Slippers are available at the showers or provided in the gers. Visitors find that staying in a ger is an essential part of their Mongolian experience. The camp ger is lockable with a padlock as a precaution.
The gers have a single electric light bulb and some of them include a socket (220-V Asian-style plug and you may bring your adapter) to charge batteries. In other camps in remote areas, guests also have the option to charge batteries at camp restaurants and lodges. Ger camps in remote areas supply electric power by generator, available at certain times of the days. The paths are lit in the evenings, and lights are turned off at night in order to not attract flies and other insects. Therefore, bringing a flashlight/torch is recommended.
The wood-burning stove warms the ger quickly but keep in mind that ger camps in the Gobi desert have a limited supply of wood. Ger camp staff should attend to the fire several times when required and on request. Guests have the option to request a small amount of wood to self-manage their ger stoves. However, for safety reasons, it is recommended not to light the fire on your own. Exta blankets are provided upon request.
Internet or WIFI is not available at remote ger camps but 3G sim cards may be purchased in Ulaanbaatar for internet access near towns and at ger camps located within the network reception area.
Wi-Fi is available at hotels in Ulaanbaatar. In the countryside, internet access is limited. However, you can purchase a local tour SIM card with data for 3G/4G access in towns and at ger camps or attractions located within network coverage areas. This will help you stay connected both in the city and in parts of the countryside, although internet speeds may be slower.
The Ger camp features a large central ger or lodge-style restaurants to serve Mongolian and European style meals. The meal ingredients of nomadic Mongolians have always been nature-derived and simple, which has been kept today. The ger camp meals are basic, real food, with the main ingredients being beef, mutton, chicken, pork (randomly), pastry, noodles, rice, seasonally available vegetables, such as tomatoes, cucumbers, potatoes, carrots, broccoli, mushrooms, beets, lettuce, pimentos, radishes, onions and garlic etc. There are bars at the restaurants offering both soft and alcoholic drinks.
The ger camp bathrooms are mostly separate houses used by all guests. Many ger camps have central electricity and hot running water available 24 hours; however, some ger camps, which use solar or fire heating systems, may offer hot water only at specified times of day. Therefore, guests are asked to make use of hot water at those times.
Please note that flushing toilets and hot showers may not be available for guests traveling in spring (March, April, May) and autumn (September, October) when the cold weather disables use of the water pipes.
The bathrooms have electric lights, mirrors, basins with running water, flush toilets and other modern facilities. Guests may bring personal amenities such as a toothbrush and toothpaste, shower gel, shampoo, conditioner, and a hairdryer if needed. One kit costs around 9 USD, but it is not usually sold at the front desk of the camps. Therefore, it is recommended that clients bring their own kits suited to their skin and hair type, or purchase them from convenience stores (CU or GS25) or supermarkets in Ulaanbaatar. Most public showers at ger camps are equipped with hairdryers (however, there are no hairdryers inside the gers; a hairdryer costs around 16-30 USD). Most private showers at ger camps have a hairdryer in the bathroom.
Let’s Experience GER CAMP in Mongolia! Every itinerary will be included such accommodation.
A Ger is a traditional Mongolian dwelling made of felt layers and a wooden construction. A Ger camp is similar to a hotel system, where a private Ger serves as a room. Ger camps are equipped with shared dining gers or houses and Western-style bathroom facilities.
Mostly have twin beds.
Maximum capacity is 4 people, but normally offered for 2 people.
Share bathroom facilities.
Some en-suite facilities (gers with private bathroom facilities inside) are available for an extra charge (suitable for elderly & comfort-oriented clients).
Siti Nor Hidayah
Malaysia
Our one-week family trip exploring Mongolia's desert and grasslands was wonderful. The children especially loved the camel rides in the Gobi-like areas and interacting with the nomadic families. Sleeping in traditional gers was an authentic experience for everyone. The vast, open landscapes were incredibly refreshing, a perfect family adventure.
Date of Experience: Jul 10, 2024
Tour Customized by: Hannah
You May be Interested in This Tour: 7 Days Best Mongolia Tour: Popular Route in One Week
Lim
Singapore
Our 7-day Naadam Festival tour in July was absolutely incredible! Witnessing the opening ceremony and the 'three manly games' was a cultural spectacle unlike any other.
The vibrant atmosphere, traditional costumes, and the thrill of the horse races made it an unforgettable journey. A perfect blend of festival excitement and Mongolian landscapes.
Date of Experience: Jul 10, 2024
Tour Customized by: Allan
You May be Interested in This Tour: 7 Days Mongolia Naadam Festival Tour (July 6 - July12, 2025)
Anastasia
Russia
A compact yet enriching 5-day trip! Ulaanbaatar offered interesting cultural insights, and the drive to Elsen Tasarkhai was scenic, with fun camel rides. Exploring Karakorum and Erdene Zuu Monastery transported us back in time. Despite the short duration, we felt we truly experienced the essence of Central Mongolia.
Date of Experience: Sep 12, 2024
Tour Customized by: Cici
You May be Interested in This Tour: 5 Days Central Mongolia Tour: National Parks, Gobi Desert, History & Culture
Ulaanbaatar
Terelj National ParkHustai National ParkElsen TasarkhaiKarakorum
Ulaanbaatar
Price: Request
(Based on a private tour for two people. Price varies depending on program, travel date, number of people.)
Free Enquiry! You don’t need to pay for the reservation.
Data in submission...
Gallery
