Best Outdoor Destinations Near Ulaanbaatar

Gorkhi–Terelj National Park Iconic granite rock formations Vast alpine landscapes & river valleys Easy hiking and horseback riding Nomadic cult...
Type

Sightseeing

Destination

Around UB

Duration

3 days

Description

Gorkhi–Terelj National Park

  • Iconic granite rock formations

  • Vast alpine landscapes & river valleys

  • Easy hiking and horseback riding

  • Nomadic culture & ger visits

  • Close-to-city wilderness escape

Khustai (Hustai) National Park

  • Home of the wild Takhi (Przewalski’s horse)

  • Open steppe and forested hills

  • Wildlife watching & conservation area

  • Scenic short hikes

  • Authentic nature experience

Bogd Khan Mountains & Manzushir Monastery

  • One of the world’s oldest protected areas

  • Forested mountains with pine, birch & cedar

  • Historic Manzushir Monastery ruins (1733)

  • Peaceful hiking trails & viewpoints

  • Culture and nature combined

Tour map
Includes
Transportation
Accommodations
All entrance fees
Meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
Drinking water
Day by day itinerary
Genghis Khan statue
Genghis Khan Statue & Gorkhi-Terelj National Park (70 km)

We will depart from Ulaanbaatar early in the morning, heading towards Terelj National Park, which lies 70 km from the capital. Our journey will take us through a valley surrounded by lush, forested hills and breathtaking granite cliffs. The valley is adorned with vibrant wildflowers and is home to herds of peacefully grazing yaks, horses, goats, and sheep. This picturesque park, featuring granite rocks, pine trees, and a flowing river, is an ideal spot for hiking, horseback riding, swimming, or simply unwinding and soaking in the views. We will explore several notable sites in the area.

Our first stop will be the Genghis Khan Monument, an impressive aluminum statue of Genghis Khan on horseback. Visitors can climb to the top of the monument for stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Additionally, a small museum offers a comprehensive overview of the Great Mongol Empire's history, including the lineage of the great Khans and their conquests. We will also visit Turtle Rock and the Aryaval Monastery, a serene meditation spot located at the mountain's base, where there are excellent opportunities for hiking, climbing, and horseback riding.

Accommodation:

  • Home stay with the nomads L, D

Activities:

  • Explore the Genghis khan statue
  • Discover the Aryapal monastery
  • Check out Turtle rock
  • Opportunity for horseback riding. Allow 20 USD for about an hour ride plus the same amount for the horseman who will guide you.
1
Khustai National Park (200 km)

Today, we will journey to Khustain Nuruu National Park. Just before reaching the park, we will stop at the Mongol Nomadic Tourist Camp to immerse ourselves in local culture and traditions.

The Przewalski's Horse, also known as the Takhi horse, is a rare and endangered wild horse subspecies native to the steppes of Central Asia. Once extinct in the wild, it has been reintroduced to its natural habitat in Mongolia. Khustain Nuruu National Park was established as a reserve in 1993 and was elevated to national park status in 1998. Currently, the park is home to approximately 350 Takhi horses, along with 459 vascular plant species and 217 bird species.

Upon our arrival at the Khustain Nuruu National Park camp, we will meet the park staff and learn about their ongoing projects. In the afternoon, we will explore the park's stunning natural wonders.

Accommodation:

  • Home stay with the nomads L, D

Activities:

  • Explore Khustai national park
  • Catch a glimpse the wild horses
2
Bogd Khan Mountain & Manzushir monastery (150 km)

Zuunmod, the capital of Tov Province, located about an hour’s drive from Ulaanbaatar. This small administrative town will be our first stop.

From Zuunmod, we continue to Manzushir Monastery, set on the slopes of Bogd Khan Mountain, just 8 km away. The area is peaceful and scenic, with rolling hills covered in pine, cedar, and birch trees. Dramatic granite rock formations surround the monastery, creating a truly magical atmosphere.

Founded in 1733, Manzushir Monastery once consisted of over 20 temples and housed around 350 monks. Sadly, it was destroyed during the Stalinist purges of 1937. Today, the main temple has been rebuilt and functions as a museum, while the remaining structures lie in atmospheric ruins scattered across the valley.

After exploring the museum and learning about the monastery’s history and legends, we will spend the afternoon hiking through the ruins and the Bogd Khan Mountain area. Those feeling adventurous can climb the hill behind the monastery for a panoramic view of the valley, dotted with granite boulders and forested with oak, birch, and cedar trees.

In the late afternoon, we return to Ulaanbaatar, bringing the day to a close.

Activities:

  • Explore Bogd Khan Mountain Reserve
  • Visit Manzushir monastery
3
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Gallery
Aryaval monastery
Takhi horses
Genghis Kan statue
Horseback riding