Description

Travel to Mongolia and experience the raw beauty and tradition of this remote region. Hidden from the world for many years, it is hard to imagine that this secluded country once created the largest land empire ever known. Unmatched geographical diversity, pristine grasslands, crumbling ruins and roaming herdsmen riding tough Mongolian horses - see it all on this journey through a land that time forgot.

Highlights

• Soak up the beauty of Khovsgol Lake.
• Hike to a volcanic peak.
• See Genghis Khan's Karakoram capital.
• Sooth sore muscles in relaxing hot springs in Tsenkher.
• See monks conduct their daily ceremonies.
• Explore the palaces and monasteries of Ulaanbaatar.
• Stay overnight in a traditional ger.
• Experience nomadic Mongolian life on a homestay.

Itinerary

Day 1 Ulaanbaatar

This surprising city combines tradition with modern day in a Soviet-style framework. Ulaanbaatar may look grey, but the city's inherent spirit and its colourful people make this a city to remember.

Day 2 Amarbayasgalant Monastery

Sitting serenely in the Iven Valley, the Amarbayasgalant Monastery was built in the early 1700s and was built in honour of Zanabazar.

Days 3-4 Selenge River

Flowing through Russia and Mongolia, and into Lake Baikal, the Selenge River is around 992 km long and is Mongolia's largest river.

Days 5-6 Lake Khovsgol

Often described as Mongolia's most scenic destination, Lake Khovsgol's blue waters are surrounded by dense forests and rolling grasslands, which are often peppered with wildflowers.

Days 7-9 Terkhiin Tsagaan Lake

Calm blue waters, reflecting clouds and endless grasslands surround the beautiful Terkhiin Tsagaan Lake, which is home to numerous species of birds.

Days 10-11 Tsenkher

Tsenkher is renowned for its delightful hot springs and is set amongst remote yet beautiful open scenery.

Days 12-13 Karakorum/Khogno Khan

Built by Genghis Khan in the 13th century, the ancient capital of Karakorum houses Mongolia's first Buddhist centre and impressive ruins. The Khogno Khan Mountains were once the site of a battle between two Buddhist sects but is now home to wild animals, sand dunes, forests and craggy outcrops.

Days 14-15 Ulaanbaatar

Called UB by locals, the endearing Ulaanbaatar is surrounded by green hills and is a curious mix of Soviet buildings and ger districts.

Group Size

Maximum of 12 travellers per group

Accommodation

Ger, Homestay, Hotel

Transport

Camel, Van

Important notes

In 2013 the Wild Mongolia trips departing on 28th June and 10th July will be in Mongolia for the Naadam Festival. These will run to an altered itinerary. Please see Important Notes for details.