Today we travel to Karakorum, the ancient capital of Genghis Khan’s Mongolian Empire and one of the most important historical sites in Central Mongolia. Located in the breathtaking Orkhon Valley (UNESCO World Heritage Site), Karakorum was founded in 1220 and later completed under Ögedei Khan.

During its golden age (1220–1260), Karakorum was a major political, trade, and cultural center of the Mongol Empire, attracting traders, craftsmen, and travelers from across Asia and Europe. The city was famous for its multicultural population and the legendary Silver Tree in the palace of Möngke Khan.

When Kublai Khan moved the capital to Beijing, Karakorum gradually declined and was eventually destroyed in 1388. Despite its fall, the site remains one of the most significant historical attractions in Mongolia.

Erdene Zuu Monastery – Oldest Buddhist Monastery in Mongolia

In 1588, history was revived with the construction of Erdene Zuu Monastery, built using stones from the ruins of Karakorum. This is Mongolia’s oldest Buddhist monastery and one of the country’s most iconic landmarks. At its peak, Erdene Zuu had over 100 temples and 1,000 monks. Today, visitors can explore its impressive walls and three surviving temples:

• Dalai Lama Temple
• Zuu of Buddha
• Lavrin Temple

Karakorum Archaeological Museum

Our next visit is the Karakorum Archaeological Museum, a small but fascinating museum showcasing artifacts from the 13th–14th centuries. Exhibits include:

• Ancient tools, coins, and sculptures
• A half-excavated kiln built into the museum floor
• A detailed scale model of Karakorum in the 1250s
• A Turkic noble tomb featuring wall paintings, gold, and jewellery

Outdoor Highlights Near Karakorum

• Turtle Rock (Stone Turtle) – iconic Mongol-era monument
• Local craft market selling handmade art and souvenirs

Accommodation:

• Cozy guesthouse with shared facilities

Meals included:

• Lunch, dinner

Activities:

• Explore Erdene Zuu Monastery
• Visit the Karakorum Archaeological Museum
• Discover the ancient capital of the Mongol Empire
• Drive 360 km

Today’s journey: Orkhon Valley, Central Mongolia

Today we travel west into the breathtaking Orkhon Valley, one of the most important UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Mongolia, where dramatic landscapes meet ancient history. The Orkhon River winds through vast steppe scenery, deep canyons, and volcanic formations, making this area one of the highlights of any Central Mongolia tour. The Orkhon Valley has been continuously inhabited since at least the 6th century, and even earlier in prehistoric times. It was once the heartland of the Mongol Empire and the location of Karakorum, the former capital of Genghis Khan. Today, the valley remains a living cultural landscape, where traditional nomadic herding continues much as it has for centuries.

Orkhon Valley Geology & Waterfall

The unique landscape of the Orkhon Valley was shaped by ancient volcanic activity near the Tsagaan Azarga (White Stallion River). Lava flows formed thick layers of black basalt, which the Orkhon River later carved through, creating a dramatic lava canyon and the famous Orkhon Valley Waterfall (Ulaan Tsutgalan) — one of the most beautiful natural attractions in Mongolia.

Tövkhön Monastery (1650s)

Our first stop is Tövkhön Monastery, a sacred Buddhist site founded in the 1650s by Zanabazar, Mongolia’s most influential Buddhist leader and artist. Located high on a forested hill, the monastery offers a peaceful retreat surrounded by pine forests, rock formations, and natural caves. Visitors can explore the wooden temple complex and hike to the summit, where a sacred Ovoo (stone cairn) dedicated to the mountain spirit provides stunning panoramic views over the Orkhon Valley. This site is considered one of the most spiritual places in Mongolia.

Accommodation

• Nomadic homestay in the Orkhon Valley
• Very basic conditions, no modern facilities

Meals included

• Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Activities Included

• 7 km hike to Tövkhön Monastery (approx. 3–4 hours)
• Explore the Orkhon Valley UNESCO World Heritage Site
• Visit the Orkhon Valley Waterfall (Ulaan Tsutgalan)
• Drive 120 km

Today’s adventure: Horse riding in Central Mongolia

After breakfast, we load our equipment and mount our horses aro and begin a scenic 20 km horseback ride to Khuis Lake. This route marks the entrance to the legendary Valley of the Eight Lakes, one of the most remote and spectacular regions in Central Mongolia.

Valley of the Eight Lakes (Naiman Nuur)

The Valley of the Eight Lakes is a high-altitude landscape shaped by ancient volcanic activity, featuring extinct volcanoes, rugged mountain peaks, alpine forests, and interconnected freshwater lakes. This untouched area is a highlight for travelers seeking horse trekking, adventure travel, and off-the-beaten-path experiences in Mongolia.

Khuis Lake

Khuis Lake is one of the first lakes in the valley and is known for its peaceful atmosphere and striking natural beauty. A large rocky island in the center of the lake creates a mystical setting, surrounded by forested slopes and complete silence. It is the perfect place to relax and connect with nature before continuing deeper into the valley.

Accommodation

• Tented camp under the stars near Khuis Lake
• Camping equipment provided

Meals included

• Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Activities Included

• Horseback riding through scenic mountain trails
• Explore the Valley of the Eight Lakes

Today’s adventure: Horse trekking in Central Mongolia

Today we continue our horseback riding journey deeper into the wilderness, heading toward Shireet Lake, the largest and most spectacular lake in the Valley of the Eight Lakes (Naiman Nuur), located in the Khangai Mountains of Central Mongolia. Covering approximately 12 km on horseback, this route takes us through untouched alpine landscapes, volcanic terrain, and forested mountain valleys. The Valley of the Eight Lakes is a remote, high-altitude region formed by ancient volcanic activity, making it one of the most scenic and least-visited destinations in Mongolia.

Shireet Lake – Highlight of the Eight Lakes

Shireet Lake is the true highlight of the valley and a must-see for horse riding and adventure tours in Mongolia. The lake lies in a dramatic volcanic basin, surrounded by towering cliffs, dense larch forests, and wide alpine meadows. Its crystal-clear freshwater, clean mountain air, and complete silence create a feeling of total isolation and tranquillity.

With no crowds and no modern development, Shireet Lake offers a rare opportunity to experience pristine nature in Mongolia, making it an unforgettable stop on any horse trekking tour in the Khangai Mountains.

Accommodation

• Tented camp in the wilderness near Shireet Lake
• Camping equipment provided

Meals included

• Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (B, L, D)

Activities Included

• 12 km horseback ride through scenic mountain and volcanic landscapes
• Explore the Valley of the Eight Lakes
• Relax and enjoy the peaceful beauty of Shireet Lake

Today’s adventure: Horse trekking in the Valley of the Eight Lakes

Today we continue our journey deeper into the Valley of the Eight Lakes (Naiman Nuur), riding through the remote and scenic Buureg Valley to reach Bugat Lake and Khaliun Lake. This full-day horse trek of approximately 15 km showcases some of the most peaceful and untouched landscapes in the Khangai Mountains of Central Mongolia.

Bugat Lake

Bugat Lake is a secluded alpine lake surrounded by rolling hills, larch forests, and wild alpine flowers. Its calm, reflective waters and quiet atmosphere make it an ideal place to rest, enjoy the scenery, and experience the tranquility of Mongolia’s high mountain wilderness.

Khaliun Lake

Continuing through the Buureg Valley, we arrive at Khaliun Lake, dramatically set beneath steep cliffs and dense forested slopes. The contrast between the rugged terrain and the still, clear lake creates a striking natural scene. With no crowds and minimal human presence, this area offers a true off-the-beaten-path horse trekking experience in Mongolia.

Buureg Valley Landscape

The Buureg Valley is known for its unspoiled mountain and forest terrain, alpine meadows, and pristine rivers, making it one of the highlights of the Eight Lakes horse riding route.

Accommodation

• Tented camp surrounded by wilderness
• Camping equipment provided

Meals included

• Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Activities Included

• 15 km horseback ride through mountain, forest, and valley landscapes
• Explore Bugat Lake and Khaliun Lake
• Experience remote wilderness camping in the Valley of the Eight Lakes
• Enjoy peaceful nature and wildlife observation

Today’s adventure: Horse trekking in Central Mongolia

Today we continue our horseback riding journey through the Valley of the Eight Lakes (Naiman Nuur), covering approximately 15 km on horseback to reach Shavart Lake, one of the most peaceful and secluded lakes in the Khangai Mountains of Central Mongolia.

Shavart Lake

Shavart Lake is a quiet alpine lake surrounded by rolling hills, scattered forests, and open volcanic terrain. Its calm, mirror-like waters reflect the surrounding mountains and sky, creating a perfect setting for relaxation and photography. Less visited than other lakes in the valley, Shavart Lake offers an intimate experience of untouched wilderness and pristine nature in Mongolia.

Volcanic Valley & Nomadic Life

After spending time at the lake, we continue riding through a wide volcanic rocky valley, shaped by ancient eruptions and dotted with volcanic craters. This area is home to nomadic herding families, providing insight into traditional Mongolian pastoral life. Along the trail, enjoy sweeping views of lakes, lava formations, and high mountain scenery — a true highlight of any Eight Lakes horse riding tour.

Accommodation

• Tented camp in the heart of nature
• Camping equipment provided

Meals included

• Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Activities Included

• 15 km horseback ride through volcanic and mountain landscapes
• Explore the Valley of the Eight Lakes
• Relax at Shavart Lake

Today’s adventure: Horse trekking in Central Mongolia

Today we conclude our epic Valley of the Eight Lakes (Naiman Nuur) horse trekking adventure with a 22 km ride back to the Orkhon Valley, returning to the ger camp near the waterfall where our journey began — a perfect full-circle experience.

Experience Nomadic Life

Along the way, we visit a traditional nomadic family raising yaks and horses, gaining insight into their centuries-old pastoral lifestyle. This is a unique opportunity to see how nomads in Central Mongolia live and work in harmony with nature.

Scenic Ride & Celebration

The route offers stunning mountain, forest, and volcanic landscapes, providing incredible views at every turn. To celebrate the completion of our trek, we enjoy a Mongolian barbecue (Khorkhog) under the open sky — a true taste of Mongolian culinary tradition.

Accommodation

• Ger camp with shared facilities and showers

Meals included

• Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Activities Included

• 22 km horseback ride through Central Mongolia’s wilderness
• Visit a traditional nomadic family
• Explore the Orkhon Valley UNESCO World Heritage Site
• Celebrate with a Mongolian barbecue in the great outdoors

Today’s adventure: Exploring Khogno Khan and the Little Gobi

Today we explore two of Central Mongolia’s most striking landscapes: Khogno Khan Mountains and the Elsen Tasarkhai Sand Dunes, also known as the Little Gobi. This day combines adventure, history, and nomadic culture into a truly memorable experience.

Khogno Khan Mountains

Our first stop is Khogno Khan Mountain, part of the Khogno Khan Uul Nature Reserve. Rising dramatically from the surrounding steppe, the mountain offers breathtaking panoramic views of untouched wilderness and rolling grasslands. History enthusiasts will enjoy visiting Ovgon Khiid, a small monastery tucked in the foothills, which adds a spiritual and cultural element to the rugged natural scenery.

Elsen Tasarkhai Sand Dunes (Little Gobi)

Next, we head to the Elsen Tasarkhai Sand Dunes, stretching over 100 km of golden sand, often called the Little Gobi. These dunes are perfect for adventure seekers, photography, and wildlife spotting. Along the way, we visit a local camel-breeding family, learning about traditional nomadic life, and there is an optional camel ride, offering a fun, authentic way to explore the dunes.

Accommodation

• Nomadic homestay in the area
• Very basic conditions, no modern facilities

Meals included

• Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Activities Included

• Explore the Elsen Tasarkhai Sand Dunes (Little Gobi)
• Hike and enjoy views at Khogno Khan Mountain
• Visit the historic Ovgon Monastery
• Meet a local camel-breeding family
• Optional camel riding adventure through the dunes
• Drive 220 km

Today’s adventure: Back to Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia’s capital. Today we drive back to Ulaanbaatar, marking the end of your unforgettable journey across Central Mongolia and the Khangai Mountains. The afternoon is free for independent exploration — stroll through the city, visit local markets, or relax at your hotel.

Optional Cultural Experience: Mongolian Folklore Show

For a memorable cultural finale, consider attending a Mongolian folklore show featuring:

• Traditional throat singing (Khoomei)
• Stunning contortionist performances
• Colorful Mongolian dances and music

This optional experience offers a deep dive into Mongolia’s rich cultural heritage, perfect for travelers looking to combine adventure with local traditions.

Meals Included

• Breakfast and Lunch (B, L)

Activities Included

• Drive back to Ulaanbaatar
• Optional folklore shows with throat singing and traditional performances
• 260 km