The following day, around 9 a.m, you’ll be picked up from your accommodation to start your journey. You’ll drive along a 290 km asphalt road from Ulaanbaatar to Elsen Tasarkhai sand dune, which will take about 4 hours. Elsen Tasarkhai is a stunning natural wonder, known for its unique beauty, covering an 80 km long dune plateau. What makes it special are the Mongolian Bactrian camels, a rare sight not typically found in the Sahara or other places. These camels have adapted to Mongolia’s harsh climate and are known for their gentle and slow-paced demeanor. Riding them through the dunes provides a one-of-a-kind experience, allowing you to take in the breathtaking landscape at a leisurely pace that’s truly unforgettable. Combining these gentle camels with the mesmerizing dunes creates an extraordinary adventure you won’t find anywhere else. You’ll drive to Kharkhorin for about 1 hour to the Kharkhorin – once the illustrious capital of the Mongol Empire, was situated near the enchanting Elsen Tasarkhai. Founded by Genghis Khan in 1220, this ancient city thrived as a political, cultural, and economic hub. It housed the Great Khan’s grand palace and played a pivotal role in trade along the Silk Road.

Erdenezuu Monastery, established in 1586, was constructed upon the ruins of Kharkhorin, preserving the city’s spiritual essence. It became a significant center of Buddhism in Mongolia, boasting remarkable architecture and housing precious religious relics. Despite periods of religious suppression, Erdenezuu endured the test of time.

After the decline of the Mongol Empire, Kharkhorin faced a somber fate, suffering destruction at the hands of invading armies and the passage of time. While its former glory now lies in ruins, its historical significance remains palpable.

You’ll explore Erdenezuu Monastery and the Kharkhorin Museum, delving into the clear history of the Mongol Empire from the Bronze Age. At night, you’ll experience the magic of Mongolia by staying in a traditional Mongol ger camp. These portable, round tents embody the nomadic heritage of Mongolia, offering a unique and cozy experience. You’ll spend the night in a ger.(B/L/D)

The journey continues with a drive to the heart of the Khangai Mountain range to explore the extinct Khorgo volcano. Arkhangai province is known for its yaks, and you’ll have the opportunity to experience yak riding on the way to Khorgo at Taikhar Chuluu, a single giant rock in the steppe. Upon arrival at the Khorgo mountains, you’ll hike steeply to the summit to capture the view of the volcano crater. About 9000 years ago, the Khorgo volcano erupted, forming the Terkh white lake where you’ll be staying at a Ger camp tonight.(B/L/D)

The journey continues westward to visit Zavkhan province, where you’ll explore Ulaagchni Khar Lake and the Mukhart River. On this day, you’ll reach Tosontsengel soum, the largest in Zavkhan province. Near the soum, you’ll stay at a beautiful tourist camp.(B/L/D)

Ulaagchiin Khar Lake is a beautiful lake located in a semi-desert area. The northwestern shore of the lake is surrounded by impressive sand dunes, while the southern shore and islands attract migratory waterfowl. You’ll arrive at the lake around midday and spend time chilling out and strolling around the lakeshore. Walking barefoot on the hot sand dunes and sliding down to the lake shore is an absolutely unforgettable experience of this trip. (B/L/D)

Not far from the lake, you’ll find the Mukhart River. Along the way to the river, you will drive through Senjit Khad, a naturally created rock gate about 10m high and 6-8m wide. The landscape around the Mukhart River is very unique, with sand hills forming a semicircular amphitheater and and berry and willow trees at the bottom. It’s a nice place to walk barefoot on the sand dunes and hike all the way up to them. Afterward, the trip will arrive in Uliastay. Overnight in a hotel.(B/L/D)

Driver will pick you up from the hotel and you’ll transferred to the airport. You’ll catch a noon flight to Ulaanbaatar, flying for about an hour. We’ll bid you farewell, hoping that we were able to be a part of your unforgettable vacation and add some color to your life.(B)