Two Weeks in the Land of the Eternal Blue Sky
From Ulaanbaatar's Monasteries to the Nomadic Heartland
Trip Overview
This comprehensive two-week journey explores Mongolia's captivating capital and its stunning surroundings, blending urban cultural immersion with adventures into the vast steppes. You'll discover ancient Buddhist monasteries, world-class museums chronicling the Mongol Empire, and the legacy of Chinggis Khan. The itinerary balances Ulaanbaatar's historic sites with multi-day excursions to Gorkhi Terelj National Park and the ancient Orkhon Valley, offering encounters with nomadic culture, dramatic landscapes, and unique geological formations. Experience traditional throat singing, stay in authentic ger camps, witness eagle hunting demonstrations, and explore monasteries dating back centuries. This moderate-paced journey allows time for both structured sightseeing and spontaneous discoveries, with flexibility built in for weather and personal interests.
Pace
Moderate
Daily Budget
$70-120 per day
Best Seasons
June to September (summer months with warmest weather and accessible roads)
Ideal For
Adventure seekers, Culture enthusiasts, History buffs, Photography lovers, First-time visitors to Mongolia, Nature lovers
Day-by-Day Itinerary
1
Arrival & Capital Orientation
Ulaanbaatar City Center
Settle into Mongolia's capital and get oriented with the city's main square and surrounding cultural landmarks, easing into the time zone with light exploration.
Morning
Airport arrival and hotel check-in
Arrive at Chinggis Khaan International Airport and transfer to your accommodation in the city center. Take time to rest and freshen up after your flight. Orient yourself with a gentle walk around your neighborhood, getting your first impressions of Ulaanbaatar's unique blend of Soviet-era architecture and modern development.
Arrange airport transfer in advance through your hotel for easier arrival
Lunch
A casual restaurant near Sukhbaatar Square serving traditional Mongolian dishes
Afternoon
Sukhbaatar Square and city center exploration
Explore Sukhbaatar Square, the heart of Ulaanbaatar, dominated by the imposing Government Palace with its massive Chinggis Khan statue. Walk through the surrounding area to observe daily life, visit the nearby State Department Store for handicrafts, and get a feel for the city's layout. This gentle introduction helps you acclimate to the altitude and time difference.
Evening
Welcome dinner and early rest
Enjoy a traditional Mongolian dinner featuring buuz (steamed dumplings) or khorkhog (meat cooked with hot stones) at a restaurant with cultural performances, then retire early to combat jet lag
Where to Stay Tonight
Central Ulaanbaatar near Sukhbaatar Square (Mid-range hotel in the downtown area)
Central location provides easy access to major attractions and restaurants while you orient yourself to the city
Ulaanbaatar is 1,350 meters above sea level - take it easy on your first day and stay hydrated to adjust to the altitude
Day 1 Budget: $80-100
2
Spiritual Heritage & Monastic Treasures
Ulaanbaatar - Religious Sites
Dive into Mongolia's Buddhist heritage with visits to the country's most important active monastery and beautifully preserved temple museums.
Morning
Gandantegchinlen Monastery
Visit Mongolia's largest and most important active Buddhist monastery, home to over 150 monks. Arrive early to witness morning prayers and see the magnificent 26-meter gilded statue of Migjid Janraisig. Observe monks in prayer, spin prayer wheels, and explore the various temples within the complex. The monastery serves as the center of Buddhism in Mongolia and offers profound insight into the country's spiritual traditions.
Visit during morning prayers (around 9-10 AM) for the most atmospheric experience
Lunch
A vegetarian-friendly cafe near the monastery district
Afternoon
Choijin Lama Temple Museum
Explore this stunning museum housed in a former monastery complex built between 1904-1908. The five temples contain exceptional examples of Buddhist art, intricate religious masks used in tsam dances, and beautiful thangka paintings. The architecture itself is remarkable, showcasing traditional Mongolian-Chinese temple design. The museum provides context for Mongolia's Buddhist history and the persecution during the communist era.
Evening
Traditional cultural performance
Attend an evening performance featuring Mongolian throat singing, traditional instruments like the morin khuur (horsehead fiddle), and contortionist acts at one of the city's cultural theaters
Where to Stay Tonight
Central Ulaanbaatar (Same hotel as Day 1)
Staying in the same location eliminates packing/unpacking and maintains your central position for city exploration
Photography is prohibited inside most temple halls - enjoy the moment and purchase postcards at the gift shop instead
Day 2 Budget: $75-95
3
Imperial Legacy & National Treasures
Ulaanbaatar - Museums
Immerse yourself in Mongolia's rich history from prehistoric times through the Mongol Empire to modern independence at the country's premier museums.
Morning
Chinggis Khan National Museum Mongolia
Spend the morning at this comprehensive museum dedicated to Mongolia's greatest hero and the nation's history. Explore exhibits covering prehistoric Mongolia, the rise of the Mongol Empire, Chinggis Khan's military campaigns, traditional culture, and Mongolia's path to independence. The museum houses impressive artifacts, traditional costumes, weapons, and detailed explanations of how the Mongols conquered much of the known world.
Consider hiring an English-speaking guide at the entrance for deeper historical context
Lunch
A modern cafe near the museum district with both Mongolian and Western options
Afternoon
National Museum of Mongolia
Continue your historical journey at this excellent museum covering Mongolia from the Stone Age to the present. The ethnographic section showcases traditional costumes from different Mongolian ethnic groups, while other galleries display archaeological finds, religious artifacts, and exhibits on nomadic culture. The museum provides essential context for understanding modern Mongolia and its diverse cultural heritage.
Evening
Casual evening in the city
Explore the Seoul Street area for Korean restaurants and cafes, reflecting Ulaanbaatar's cosmopolitan dining scene, then stroll through the evening streets observing local life
Where to Stay Tonight
Central Ulaanbaatar (Same hotel as previous nights)
Maintain your base for efficient city exploration
Museums in Ulaanbaatar close early (typically 5-6 PM) - plan your visits for morning and early afternoon
Day 3 Budget: $70-90
4
Art, Nature & Victory Views
Ulaanbaatar - Southern Attractions
Discover Mongolia's finest art collection, explore natural history, and climb to a memorial offering panoramic city views.
Morning
Zanabazar Museum of Fine Arts
Visit Mongolia's premier art museum, named after the country's greatest sculptor and religious leader. The collection includes Zanabazar's own bronze masterpieces, traditional Buddhist art, thangka paintings, and contemporary Mongolian works. The museum provides insight into the sophisticated artistic traditions that flourished in Mongolia. Take time to appreciate the delicate craftsmanship and spiritual symbolism in the religious art.
Lunch
A restaurant in the central district specializing in tsuivan (Mongolian noodle stir-fry)
Afternoon
Zaisan Monument and viewpoint
Take a taxi to the Zaisan Memorial on a hill south of the city. Climb the 300+ steps to reach the Soviet-era monument commemorating allied soldiers. The reward is spectacular 360-degree views over Ulaanbaatar and the surrounding mountains. The circular memorial features colorful murals depicting Soviet-Mongolian friendship. Time your visit for late afternoon light, perfect for photography of the sprawling city below.
Hire a taxi for round-trip including waiting time, as public transport is limited
Evening
Dinner with a view
Enjoy dinner at a restaurant with views over the city, celebrating your last evening before heading to the countryside
Where to Stay Tonight
Central Ulaanbaatar (Same hotel as previous nights)
Final night in the city before departing for Terelj National Park
The climb up Zaisan can be strenuous - pace yourself and bring water, especially in summer heat
Day 4 Budget: $75-95
5
Gateway to the Steppes
Gorkhi Terelj National Park
Leave the capital behind for Mongolia's most accessible national park, settling into a traditional ger camp and exploring dramatic rock formations.
Morning
Transfer to Gorkhi Terelj National Park
Depart Ulaanbaatar early for the scenic 90-minute drive northeast to Gorkhi Terelj National Park. Watch as the urban landscape gives way to rolling steppes and dramatic granite formations. Check into your ger camp and receive an orientation on staying in a traditional felt tent. The park offers stunning alpine scenery, Buddhist temples, and opportunities to experience nomadic culture firsthand in a beautiful natural setting.
Book ger camp accommodation in advance, especially during summer months
Lunch
Traditional Mongolian lunch at your ger camp
Afternoon
Turtle Rock and area exploration
Visit the famous Turtle Rock (Melkhii Khad), a natural rock formation resembling a turtle that has become an icon of the park. Climb to the top for views over the valley, then explore the surrounding area on foot. The landscape features massive granite outcrops, meadows filled with wildflowers in summer, and grazing livestock. Visit a nomadic family's ger to learn about their lifestyle and perhaps sample airag (fermented mare's milk).
Evening
Ger camp experience
Enjoy a traditional dinner at the camp, stargaze under the incredibly clear skies (Mongolia has minimal light pollution), and experience the peaceful silence of the countryside
Where to Stay Tonight
Gorkhi Terelj National Park (Tourist ger camp with shared facilities)
Staying in a traditional ger is an essential Mongolian experience, and Terelj offers comfortable camps with stunning natural surroundings
Gers can be cold at night even in summer - camps provide stoves and extra blankets, but bring warm layers
Day 5 Budget: $80-120
6
Horseback Riding & Mountain Trails
Gorkhi Terelj National Park
Experience the nomadic way of life through horseback riding across the steppes and hiking among the park's spectacular rock formations.
Morning
Horseback riding excursion
Join a guided horseback riding tour through Terelj's valleys and meadows. Mongolian horses are small but sturdy, and riding is central to the nomadic culture. Your guide will lead you through scenic landscapes, past grazing yaks and sheep, with mountains rising in the distance. Even beginners can enjoy a gentle ride, while experienced riders can explore further. This is your chance to travel as Mongolians have for centuries.
Arrange through your ger camp the evening before
Lunch
Packed lunch or return to ger camp for midday meal
Afternoon
Hiking and nature exploration
Take a guided or self-guided hike through the park's trails, exploring the unique granite formations, forests, and alpine meadows. The park is home to diverse wildlife including deer, eagles, and marmots. Visit scenic viewpoints, photograph the dramatic landscape, and enjoy the pristine air. The relatively gentle terrain makes for accessible hiking with rewarding views at every turn.
Evening
Cultural evening at camp
Participate in traditional activities like learning to play Mongolian games, trying on traditional deel clothing, or listening to stories about nomadic life from camp staff
Where to Stay Tonight
Gorkhi Terelj National Park (Same ger camp as Day 5)
Second night allows deeper immersion in the park and nomadic lifestyle
Wear long pants and closed shoes for horseback riding - Mongolian saddles are wooden and can be uncomfortable in shorts
Day 6 Budget: $85-130
7
Return to the Capital
Ulaanbaatar
Return to Ulaanbaatar with time to explore neighborhoods you haven't yet visited and enjoy the city's modern amenities after days in the countryside.
Morning
Morning in Terelj and return transfer
Enjoy a final morning in Terelj National Park, perhaps taking a short walk near your camp or photographing the landscape in morning light. After breakfast, transfer back to Ulaanbaatar, watching the scenery transition from wilderness to city. Check into your hotel and refresh after your countryside adventure.
Lunch
A modern restaurant in central Ulaanbaatar offering international cuisine
Afternoon
The Natural History Museum of Mongolia
Visit this fascinating museum showcasing Mongolia's natural heritage, including the famous dinosaur fossils discovered in the Gobi Desert. See complete skeletons of Tarbosaurus and Protoceratops, along with fossilized dinosaur eggs. The museum also features exhibits on Mongolia's diverse ecosystems, from the Gobi to the northern taiga, with taxidermied specimens of native wildlife including the rare snow leopard.
Evening
Modern Ulaanbaatar experience
Explore the city's modern side with dinner at a contemporary restaurant, perhaps visiting a local brewery or wine bar to experience Ulaanbaatar's growing food and drink scene
Where to Stay Tonight
Central Ulaanbaatar (Mid-range hotel in the downtown area)
Return to urban comfort with easy access to restaurants and services
Many museums are closed on Mondays - plan accordingly if your schedule shifts
Day 7 Budget: $80-110
8
Royal History & Military Heritage
Ulaanbaatar - Southern District
Explore the winter palace of Mongolia's last religious leader and discover the nation's military history at specialized museums.
Morning
Bogd Khaan Palace Museum
Visit the beautiful winter palace of Bogd Khan, Mongolia's eighth Living Buddha and last theocratic ruler. The complex contains six temples and the palace itself, preserved much as it was when the Bogd Khan died in 1924. Admire the ornate architecture, view the impressive collection of gifts from foreign dignitaries, see the Bogd Khan's personal possessions, and explore the thangka paintings and religious artifacts. The palace grounds offer a peaceful retreat from the city.
Lunch
A traditional restaurant in the southern district serving khuushuur (fried meat pastries)
Afternoon
Mongolian Military Museum
Explore Mongolia's military history from ancient times through the modern era. The museum covers the Mongol Empire's military tactics and conquests, traditional weapons and armor, the Qing Dynasty period, Mongolia's independence struggle, and the communist era. Outdoor exhibits feature Soviet-era tanks and aircraft. The museum provides perspective on how military prowess shaped Mongolian identity and history.
Evening
Leisure evening
Free evening to explore neighborhoods on your own, shop for souvenirs at the State Department Store, or relax at your hotel before the next countryside excursion
Where to Stay Tonight
Central Ulaanbaatar (Same hotel as Day 7)
Maintain your base before departing for the Orkhon Valley
The Bogd Khan Palace is south of the city center - allow extra travel time and consider combining it with a taxi tour of southern neighborhoods
Day 8 Budget: $70-95
9
Journey to Ancient Karakorum
Orkhon Valley - Erdene Zuu
Embark on a full-day journey to Mongolia's ancient capital region, visiting the country's oldest surviving Buddhist monastery.
Morning
Drive to Kharkhorin and Orkhon Valley
Depart early for the approximately 6-7 hour drive west to Kharkhorin, ancient capital of the Mongol Empire. The journey crosses vast steppes, passes through small settlements, and offers glimpses of nomadic life. Stop along the way to stretch, photograph the landscape, and perhaps visit a nomadic family. The drive itself is part of the adventure, showcasing Mongolia's enormous open spaces.
Book a multi-day tour package including transportation, accommodation, and guide for this extended countryside trip
Lunch
Roadside stop or packed lunch during the journey
Afternoon
Erdene Zuu Monastery
Arrive at Erdene Zuu Monastery, Mongolia's oldest surviving Buddhist monastery, built in 1585 using stones from the ruins of Karakorum. The monastery is surrounded by 108 stupas and contains three main temples with beautiful Buddhist artwork. Despite destruction during the communist purges, several temples survived and have been restored. Explore the grounds, visit active temples where monks practice, and learn about the monastery's role in preserving Mongolian Buddhism.
Evening
Ger camp evening
Settle into your ger camp near Kharkhorin, enjoy a traditional dinner, and rest after the long journey
Where to Stay Tonight
Kharkhorin/Orkhon Valley area (Tourist ger camp)
Staying near Erdene Zuu allows easy access to the monastery and positions you for exploring the Orkhon Valley
The long drive can be dusty and bumpy - bring a scarf or mask, and consider motion sickness medication if you're prone to car sickness
Day 9 Budget: $100-150
10
Waterfalls & Valley Wonders
Explore the UNESCO-listed Orkhon Valley, visiting spectacular waterfalls and experiencing the region's natural beauty.
Morning
Orkhon Waterfall excursion
Journey to Orkhon Waterfall (Ulaan Tsutgalan), a spectacular 20-meter cascade formed by a combination of volcanic eruptions and earthquakes thousands of years ago. The waterfall is most impressive in summer when snowmelt increases water flow. Hike down to the base for different perspectives, photograph the falls and surrounding canyon, and enjoy the dramatic landscape of the Orkhon Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Lunch
Packed lunch near the waterfall or return to ger camp
Afternoon
Orkhon Valley exploration
Explore the beautiful Orkhon Valley, following the Orkhon River through landscapes that have been inhabited for millennia. Visit nomadic families, observe traditional herding practices, and learn about life in this historic region. The valley has been a center of nomadic empires for over two thousand years. Take short hikes, photograph the scenic river valley, and simply enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
Evening
Traditional camp evening
Enjoy your final evening in the Orkhon Valley with a traditional dinner, perhaps trying boodog (goat cooked from inside with hot stones) if available, and stargazing
Where to Stay Tonight
Orkhon Valley (Same or nearby ger camp)
Second night allows fuller exploration of this historically and naturally significant region
The track to Orkhon Waterfall can be rough - this excursion requires a sturdy vehicle and some tolerance for bumpy roads
Day 10 Budget: $90-140
11
Mountain Monastery & Return Journey
Manzushir Monastery / Ulaanbaatar
Visit a ruined monastery in a mountain setting before returning to Ulaanbaatar, breaking up the long drive with cultural exploration.
Morning
Begin return journey to Ulaanbaatar
Depart the Orkhon Valley after breakfast, beginning the long journey back to Ulaanbaatar. Take a different route if possible to see new landscapes and villages. Stop for breaks in small towns, interact with locals, and observe the transition from the western steppes back toward the capital region. The journey offers final opportunities to photograph Mongolia's vast open spaces.
Lunch
Stop at a local restaurant in a town along the route
Afternoon
Manzushir Monastery
Stop at Manzushir Monastery, located in Bogd Khan Mountain National Park south of Ulaanbaatar. This ruined monastery, destroyed during the communist purges, sits in a beautiful mountain valley. Explore the museum housed in one of the few remaining buildings, walk among the ruins, and hike to a nearby meditation cave. The peaceful setting and historical significance make it a contemplative stop on your return to the city.
Evening
Return to Ulaanbaatar
Arrive in Ulaanbaatar by evening, check into your hotel, and enjoy a relaxed dinner at a restaurant of your choice, celebrating your countryside adventures
Where to Stay Tonight
Central Ulaanbaatar (Mid-range hotel in the downtown area)
Return to urban comfort for your final days in Mongolia
Manzushir is about an hour south of Ulaanbaatar - coordinate timing with your driver to ensure you arrive before the museum closes
Day 11 Budget: $100-140
12
Giant Khan & Suburban Exploration
Chinggis Khaan Statue Complex
Visit the world's largest equestrian statue and explore interactive exhibits celebrating Mongolia's legendary founder.
Morning
Chinggis Khaan Statue Complex
Take a day trip to the spectacular Chinggis Khaan Statue Complex, about 54 kilometers east of Ulaanbaatar. The 40-meter stainless steel statue of Chinggis Khan on horseback is the world's largest equestrian statue. Take an elevator to the horse's head for panoramic views across the steppes. Explore the museum in the base featuring ancient artifacts, traditional costumes, and exhibits about the Mongol Empire. The complex represents Mongolia's pride in its heritage.
Arrange round-trip transportation from your hotel; tours are readily available
Lunch
Restaurant at the statue complex or packed lunch
Afternoon
Return to city and leisure time
Return to Ulaanbaatar in the afternoon with free time to explore areas you've missed, revisit favorite spots, or shop for last-minute souvenirs. Consider visiting the State Department Store for cashmere products, traditional crafts, and other Mongolian goods. Alternatively, relax at a local cafe and reflect on your journey through Mongolia.
Evening
Farewell dinner
Enjoy a special farewell dinner at one of Ulaanbaatar's best restaurants, perhaps trying dishes you haven't yet sampled or returning to a favorite from earlier in your trip
Where to Stay Tonight
Central Ulaanbaatar (Same hotel as Day 11)
Maintain your base for final days in the capital
Wear traditional Mongolian deel clothing (available to try on at the statue complex) for memorable photos with the giant statue
Day 12 Budget: $85-115
13
Final Discoveries & Leisure
Ulaanbaatar
Visit any remaining attractions on your wishlist and enjoy leisure time for shopping, relaxation, or spontaneous exploration.
Morning
International Intellectual Museum or Dashchoilin Monastery
Choose between visiting the quirky International Intellectual Museum, featuring puzzles and games from around the world including intricate Mongolian chess sets, or Dashchoilin Monastery, a Buddhist monastery that offers insight into contemporary monastic life in Mongolia. Both provide unique perspectives on Mongolian culture. Alternatively, revisit a favorite site or simply wander neighborhoods you haven't fully explored.
Lunch
A favorite restaurant from your trip or try a final new place
Afternoon
Shopping and final exploration
Spend the afternoon shopping for souvenirs and gifts. Visit the State Department Store for cashmere scarves, sweaters, and traditional items. Browse local markets for handicrafts, artwork, and unique Mongolian products. Consider purchasing traditional items like morin khuur miniatures, Mongolian chess sets, or artwork. Save time for a final walk through your favorite neighborhoods, taking last photographs and soaking in the atmosphere.
Evening
Relaxed final evening
Enjoy a casual dinner, pack for your departure, and perhaps take a final evening stroll through Sukhbaatar Square, now familiar from your first day
Where to Stay Tonight
Central Ulaanbaatar (Same hotel as previous nights)
Final night before departure
Mongolia has strict customs regulations on antiques - ensure any purchases have proper documentation if they appear old
Day 13 Budget: $100-250
14
Departure Day
Ulaanbaatar to Airport
Final morning in Ulaanbaatar before transferring to the airport for your departure flight.
Morning
Final morning and airport transfer
Enjoy a final breakfast at your hotel and take care of any last-minute tasks. Depending on your flight time, you might have a few hours for a final walk or coffee in a favorite cafe. Transfer to Chinggis Khaan International Airport, allowing plenty of time for check-in and security. Depart Mongolia with memories of vast steppes, warm hospitality, and rich cultural experiences.
Arrange airport transfer the day before to ensure timely departure
Lunch
Airport cafe or meal on flight
Afternoon
Departure
Board your international flight home, carrying souvenirs and memories of Mongolia's unique culture, stunning landscapes, and nomadic heritage.
Evening
In transit
Traveling homeward
Where to Stay Tonight
N/A (In transit)
Departure day
Exchange remaining Mongolian tögrög before security as the currency is difficult to exchange outside Mongolia
Day 14 Budget: $30-50
Practical Information
Getting Around
In Ulaanbaatar, use a combination of taxis (very affordable, though few drivers speak English - have addresses written in Cyrillic), ride-hailing apps, and walking for central attractions. For countryside excursions to Terelj, Orkhon Valley, and other sites, hire a driver with a 4WD vehicle or book organized tours - roads outside the city are often unpaved and challenging. Public buses exist but are crowded and difficult for non-Mongolian speakers. Most travelers find hiring a driver-guide for multi-day trips to be the most practical and enriching option.
Book Ahead
Book ger camps for Terelj and Orkhon Valley in advance, especially June-August. Reserve cultural performances and arrange multi-day tour packages with transportation before arrival. Consider booking a local guide for museum visits if you want deeper historical context. Airport transfers can be arranged through hotels.
Packing Essentials
Layers for variable weather (temperatures can swing 20°C between day and night even in summer), warm jacket for evenings, comfortable walking shoes, sturdy boots for countryside, sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses), flashlight for ger camps, hand sanitizer and wet wipes, power adapter (European plugs), small bills in tögrög for markets, and a scarf for dusty conditions
Total Budget
$1,200-1,800 for 14 days (excluding international flights)
Customize Your Trip
Budget Version
Stay in hostels or guesthouses in Ulaanbaatar ($10-20/night), use public transportation where possible, eat at local canteens and markets, join group tours for countryside excursions to share costs, skip some paid museums in favor of free attractions like Sukhbaatar Square and walking neighborhoods, and choose budget ger camps. Cook some meals if your accommodation has facilities. This can reduce daily costs to $40-60 per day.
Luxury Upgrade
Stay at Ulaanbaatar's premier hotels with full amenities, hire a private guide and driver for all excursions, book luxury ger camps with private facilities and gourmet dining, arrange private cultural performances, add helicopter tours over the steppes, include visits to more remote areas like the Gobi Desert, enjoy fine dining at Ulaanbaatar's upscale restaurants, and upgrade to business class for domestic flights. Budget $250-400+ per day.
Family-Friendly
Focus on interactive experiences like the National Amusement Park, horseback riding in Terelj (with gentle horses for children), the Natural History Museum's dinosaurs, and hands-on activities at ger camps. Choose family ger camps with private facilities and child-friendly meals. Shorten long drives by skipping Orkhon Valley in favor of more time in closer Terelj. Include cultural performances with colorful costumes and music. Allow flexible schedules with rest time and simpler meal options for picky eaters.
Book Activities for Your Trip
Tours, tickets, and experiences in Ulaanbaatar