Mongolia 6 Day Itinerary

6-Day Mongolian Adventure Itinerary:

This itinerary focuses on experiencing the highlights of Ulaanbaatar and the surrounding natural beauty.

Day 1: Arrival in Ulaanbaatar & City Exploration

  • Morning: Arrive at Chinggis Khaan International Airport (ULN) in Ulaanbaatar.

    • Things to know:
      • The currency is the Mongolian Tögrög (MNT).
      • Currency exchange is available at the airport and in banks throughout the city.
      • Carry USD or MNT for visa payments upon arrival (if required, see below).

  • Afternoon: Explore Ulaanbaatar’s historical heart.

    • Visit the Gandantegchinlen Monastery, the only monastery allowed to function during the communist era and a center of religious practice in Mongolia.
    • Stroll through Sukhabaatar Square, the central square of Ulaanbaatar, and admire the impressive statue of the legendary Genghis Khan.

  • Evening: Enjoy a traditional Mongolian dinner with music and dance performances at a restaurant like “Modern Nomads” or “The Gereg” to experience the culture firsthand.

Day 2: History & Culture Day

  • Morning: Delve into Mongolia’s nomadic heritage at the National Museum of Mongolia.
  • Afternoon: Immerse yourself in the history of Genghis Khan and the Mongol Empire at the Genghis Khan Statue Complex.
  • Evening: Witness the “Naadam” festival celebrations (if your trip coincides with the “Naadam” season, typically July).

Things to consider:

  • Naadam Festival: This is a great opportunity to see traditional Mongolian wrestling, archery, and horse racing.

Day 3-5: Exploring the Surroundings

  • Day trips from Ulaanbaatar:
    • Day 3: Visit Terelj National Park for stunning views of the Tuul River valley, hiking through the Gorkhi-Terelj National Park Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Day Trip to Terelj National Park (Day 3)

  • Morning: Explore the natural beauty of the park with a visit to the Gandan Monastery, a popular destination for tourists and locals alike.

  • Afternoon: Hike through the picturesque mountains and valleys, enjoying the fresh air and breathtaking scenery.

  • Evening: Enjoy another night in Ulaanbaatar, experiencing the city’s vibrant nightlife and trying out some local cuisine.

Day 3-5 (continued): Exploring the Mongolian Steppe

  • Take a guided tour from Ulaanbaatar: Join a tour to explore the vast Mongolian steppe, often staying with nomadic families in a **“ger” (traditional yurt) camp).
  • Experience the nomadic lifestyle: Enjoy activities like horseback riding, archery lessons, and learning about traditional Mongolian games.

Day 6: Departure & Farewell

  • Morning: Visit a local market for authentic souvenirs and a glimpse into everyday Mongolian life.

Things to consider:

  • “Naadam” Festival: If you’re traveling in July, try to join the celebrations.

  • Timing: The “Naadam” festival is a great way to experience Mongolian culture and traditions.

  • Currency: Exchange some currency for local vendors and experiences.

  • Departure from Ulaanbaatar: Most tourists will depart from Ulaanbaatar’s Chinggis Khaan International Airport.

Visa Requirements:

  • Check visa requirements before you travel: Most nationalities require a visa to enter Mongolia. You can apply for a tourist visa online or at the Mongolian embassy in your country.
  • Consider an “e-visa”: This is often the easiest and fastest way to obtain a visa.

Things to note:

  • Visa Types:

  • Duration: Check the duration allowed for the “e-visa” or the type of visa you can apply for (usually 30 days) to see what type of visa is best suited for you.

Day 6: Departure:

  • Enjoy a final meal with your host family, learn about the visa requirements for your next journey.
  • Share a heartfelt farewell and express gratitude for their hospitality.

Things to consider:

  • Visa validity: Remember that visas may have specific conditions. Be sure to check the duration of stay allowed.

  • Duration of stay:

    • This is crucial, as it determines the type of visa you need.

  • Return flight tickets: Book your return flight home in advance.

  • “Visa Run”: If a “Naadam” tourist visa is not available for you nationality, consider this option to explore the diverse cultural experiences and stunning landscapes that Mongolia offers.

Transportation:

  • Domestic flights: Available within the country.

  • Public transportation: Limited and unreliable in rural areas.

  • Private transportation: Hiring a driver or a car with a driver is recommended for exploring beyond the city.

  • Transportation options: Consider hiring a driver to experience the “real” Mongolia, especially if you are travelling outside of Ulaanbaatar.

  • Private drivers and tours: Often available at the entrance of tourist attractions, and are a good way to travel further afield.

Exploring the “Gorkhi-Terel

  • Exploring the “Gorkhi-Terelj” National Park: A popular option for those who want to experience Mongolia’s natural beauty outside of the city.

  • Activities:

  • Guided Tours:

  • Transportation Options:

    • Tourist Gear: Bring comfortable shoes and clothing suitable for all weather conditions, as the weather in the Mongolian countryside can be unpredictable.

Day 3-5: Exploring the Mongolian Steppe (cont.)

  • Options: You can explore the “Mongolian steppe” outside of Ulaanbaatar through guided tours.

    • These are typically:

      • Horseback riding: Experience the vastness of the Mongolian landscape on horseback, a traditional mode of transport for exploring the countryside.
      • Hiking and trekking: Discover hidden valleys, waterfalls, and ancient ruins.
      • Climbing: Challenge yourself with a climb to the top of one of the hills overlooking the “Tuul River” valley.

Beyond the Basics:

  • Combine Ulaanbaatar with a day trip to Terelj: This is a great way to experience the contrast between the bustling city and the serene countryside.

  • Traditional Mongolian archery: Learn about the history and techniques of this ancient art form.

  • Experiencing the “Gorkhi-Terel” area: Explore the natural beauty of the steppe and mountains with your local guide.

Things to consider for transportation:

  • Vehicle Type: Most tourists will need a 4x4 vehicle to explore the “Gorkhi-Terelj” region, as it is known for its rugged terrain.

Considerations:

  • Travel Time and Logistics: Consider the travel time and logistics involved in taking a day trip from the city, and allow for enough time to return to Ulaanbaatar.

Important:

  • Always check the current “visa” requirements and regulations before traveling. Requirements can change, so it’s crucial to stay up-to-date on these matters.

  • Accommodation:

  • Glamping: Consider a luxurious glamping experience in the “Terelj” area for a comfortable stay with modern amenities.

  • Yurts (Ger): A traditional and authentic way to stay connected to Mongolian culture.

  • Check for events:

If you’re interested in exploring the countryside, consider booking a tour that includes activities like horseback riding, hiking, and trekking.

  • Consider transportation:

Think about hiring a local guide to take you on your adventure. They can provide valuable insights into the history and culture of the “Gorkhi-Terelj” region, including the significance of “naadam” events.

  • Remember: Always check for any travel restrictions or requirements for visas.

Travel Essentials:

  • Currency: Ensure you have access to local currency (Mongolian Tögrög) and exchange funds accordingly.

  • Weather: Be prepared for a range of weather conditions, especially if traveling outside of the city.

  • Language: Learn basic Mongolian phrases for a smoother travel experience.

  • Accommodation:

  • Money:

Remember: This is just a sample itinerary.

  • Things to learn:

  • Respect local traditions: Familiarize yourself with basic “Mongolian etiquette” before you go, such as removing your shoes before entering a yurt and asking permission before taking photos of people or their belongings.

  • Currency:

  • Local customs:

Research the “Gorkho-Terelj” region’s culture and history, including information on appropriate dress for the occasion.

  • Food and Drink:

  • Currency: Enjoy local delicacies like “buuz” (steamed meat dumplings) or “khuushuur” (fried meat pies) with your host family and try their traditional fermented milk drinks.

  • Travel Essentials: Learn about the “Mongolian culture” during the “Naadam” festival, including

  • Glamping:

  • Transportation:

  • Money: Think about how you’ll get around and explore the “Gorkhi-Terel” region.

  • Learn about:

  • Weather:

  • Currency:

  • Climate: This is a crucial point to remember:

The Gobi Desert: This vast and stunning landscape offers breathtaking views, unique wildlife, and opportunities for cultural immersion.

  • Money: For example, you can enjoy a “traditional Mongolian meal” with your host family and learn about their nomadic lifestyle.

  • Transportation:

  • Ger: Enjoy the “Naadam” experience.

Glamping: Try a “ger” camping experience to explore the beauty of the “Gorkhi-Terel” region!

  • Experiences:

  • Food & Drink:

  • Enjoy the Ger: Explore the culture and learn about the traditional Mongolian way of life.

  • Ger:

Activities: Consider “traditional activities” like archery, wrestling, and horse racing

  • Respecting local traditions:

Bring a gift for your host family (e.g., snacks, small toys) to show gratitude and appreciation for their hospitality.

  • Travel:

  • Staying in the Gobi Desert:

  • Consider a “Ger” experience:

  • Accommodation:

  • Traditional meals and drinks:

  • G

Money: Offer to pay for your own meals and experiences if you are a guest.

  • Travel Essentials: Enjoy unique experiences in Ulaanbaatar.

  • Activities:

  • Exploring the “Gorkhi-Terel” region:

  • Learn about traditional Mongolian culture and customs:

Accommodation:

  • Remember:

  • Food & Drink:

Transportation:

Bring a small gift, such as a bottle of wine or local specialty food/drink.

  • Culture:

  • Glamping:

Learn about the “Naadam” festival and its traditions

  • Learning about Ger:

  • Activities: Think about the “Gorkhi-Terel” region and

  • Travel:

  • Learn about the cultural and historical context of the activities.

Stay comfortable:

You can experience the beauty of Mongolian culture by staying in a “traditional ger” with a local family.

Remember:

  • Ger: Be respectful of their time and

Culture & Culture:

Consider bringing a small gift for your host family, such as a bottle of wine or a souvenir from your home country.

This is just a suggestion for the “Naadam” festival;

  • Activities:

  • Activities: Consider a “Ger” camp experience.

  • Think about experiences:

  • Exploring the landscape:

Learn more about “Gers” and their

construction and learn to use Mongolian

terms for things like “thank you” or “delicious food”.

traditional Mongolian dishes and customs, such as

  • Travel & Ger:

  • Consider a “traditional Mongolian activity”

  • G This is just an example. You can bring your own

Accommodation (consider a 4x4 tour for a few days)

Traditional beverages: Learn about the

cultural and historical significance of these items, and

consider bringing a gift of tea or “airag” (fermented mare’s milk).

Activities:

  • Horseback riding:

Stay in a ger with a local family.

Learn to make traditional Mongolian dishes.

Milk drinks are important:

It’s a great way to experience the culture and connect

with the locals, “Enjoying the Ger”

  • Transportation:

  • The Gorkhi-Terelj National Park is a popular destination for exploring the local culture.

  • Traditional Mongolian Dishes:

  • Travel & aida (fermented mare’s milk)

  • Enjoy the authentic experience of staying in a “ger” and learning about its history.

Glamping:

Learn to use traditional Mongolian

Activities

  • Traditional ger:

Consider a 4x4 tour for a unique cultural experience.

Naadam

  • Travel:

The Ger: A Traditional Food & Drink Experience

Enjoy the “ger” experience, which is a great way to learn

about the Mongolian culture and enjoy the “traditional food and drink” of the region. *

Remember to be respectful of local customs and traditions by

bringing a gift for your host family if you are visiting a ger camp.

Think about the vastness and beauty of the Mongolian landscape:

It’s crucial to understand the context of the “ger”

and the cultural significance it holds in Mongolian culture.

Learning more about local traditions will help you appreciate the experience. **

  • Exploring the ger:

Learn about its construction, the materials used and how

it was built by the nomads.

Remember this:

  • Gorkhi-Terel

is a “traditional Mongolian activity”

  • Traditional ger: Learn about the history of the Mongolian nomadic lifestyle.

  • Learning:

Explore the cultural significance of the “ger” and the traditions surrounding it.

  • Think about:

  • Transportation:

  • Gorking:

Remember: This is a crucial opportunity to learn about the “traditional Mongolian culture”.

National Park:

A traditional ger (or yurt) camping experience can be a great way to connect with the local culture.

  • Try:

Mongolian Ger Culture:

  • The

Naadam festival celebrates the spirit of Mongolia’s nomadic heritage, and staying with a family during

this time is a great opportunity to experience

traditional Mongolian hospitality.

“Gorkhi-Terel” National Park

  • Traditional “Ger” experiences:

  • Transportation:

Learn about the history of the Ger (a traditional dwelling)

and how it’s been used for centuries by nomadic families.

  • Mongolian activities:

  • Try

to bring a small gift, such as a

scarf or some tea, to give your host family a sense

of appreciation.

Remember:

“Gorkhi-Terel” is a great place to learn about the local culture and

experience the traditional “Gokhi-Terel” lifestyle. *

  • Traditional Mongolian Ger:

  • Enjoy

the nomadic experience and try it out for yourself!

  • Learning:

  • Ger

Stay with a Mongolian family who

can offer insights into their

daily life and culture, showcasing the traditional “ger construction techniques”

that are crucial to them. *

  • Culture & Traditions:

Learn about the nomadic lifestyle:

  • The Importance of Horses:

  • Mongolian Culture

The Mongols hold a deep reverence for horses and

their role in traditional Mongolian culture.

  • National Park Experiences

  • Gokhi-Terel is a popular

place to experience the cultural practices and

lifestyle of nomadic people.

Staying:

  • Remember:

The “Ger” is a symbol of the Mongol way of life, and it’s important to remember:

  • To:

Respect this tradition and the role it plays in their lives.

Gorkhi-Terel

Ger: *

Try to experience the culture and learn about the importance of horses in the Mongolian context.

**(For example, by visiting a “ger” camp).

  • Traditional Mongolian Ger:

The traditional Mongolian dwelling is a yurt

and is known for its symbolic representation of the sky and the Earth’s connection.**

Gokhi-Terel:

This time period in Mongolian Culture

is important for understanding the nomadic culture.

  • Remember to bring a small gift**:

These are some examples of what you might consider:

  • Traditional Mongolian food:

  • Ger camps are often known for their traditional

“Gorkhi-Terel” is a great place to visit and experience the

culture.

Culture:

  • Cultural significance:

  • The Importance of Horses:

Horses

are not just transportation, but also revered as symbols of freedom and strength.

  • Respecting the “Ger”:

  • The Gorkhi-Terel**:

  • Ger*

  • Transportation: A “ger camp”

  • Stay with a local family:

  • Stay in a traditional dwelling like a yurt,

The Importance of the “Naadam” festival:

Naadam:

The best way to experience the culture is by

learning about it and participating.

You’ll learn about the history of this unique cultural event

and how it celebrates the Mongolian

way of life.

Ger

Traditional “Gorkhi” experiences:

  • Staying with a nomadic family: This allows you to

experience the traditional lifestyle of the Mongols.

Naadam:

  • Authentic “Gers”: