Mongolia is vast, wild, and deeply connected to its nomadic heritage. It’s the kind of place where you can lose yourself in the open steppe, sleep in traditional gers, and witness a culture that’s as authentic as it gets. If you have 14 days to explore, buckle up—this itinerary will show you the must-sees and hidden gems, all while leaving room for personal downtime. You’ll experience Mongolia’s unbelievable scenery, its warm hospitality, and immerse yourself fully into nomadic life.
Day 1: Arrive in Ulaanbaatar
Welcome to Mongolia! Land in Ulaanbaatar, the capital city. After a long flight, take it easy today. Check into your hotel or guesthouse and rest up.
In the afternoon, take a walk around Sukhbaatar Square. You’ll get a taste of the country’s Soviet history and nomadic pride. It’s a good spot for an easy introduction to the city.
For dinner, try local Mongolian food like buuz (meat dumplings) at a local restaurant. It’s a bit greasy but delicious.
Day 2: Explore Ulaanbaatar
Head to Gandan Monastery, the most important Buddhist monastery in Mongolia. It survived the Soviet purge, and you’ll see monks chanting in the morning.
Next, visit the National Museum of Mongolia. It’s packed with exhibits on the country’s history—from ancient Mongolia to modern day. It’s the best place to learn about Genghis Khan!
In the afternoon, climb the Zaisan Hill Memorial. It offers a panoramic view of Ulaanbaatar, and it’s a peaceful place to relax while overlooking the bustling city.
Day 3: Terelj National Park
In the morning, head out to Terelj National Park, which is about 60 km from Ulaanbaatar. It’s an easy day trip. You’ll be welcomed by granite rock formations and vast green plains.
Take a short hike to see the Turtle Rock and visit the Aryabal Meditation Temple. It’s incredibly peaceful and gives you a sense of Mongolia’s Buddhist side.
You can also stay overnight in a ger camp here. Many camps have hot showers, comfy beds, and give you a real taste of nomadic life without sacrificing comfort.
Day 4: Gorkhi-Terelj National Park Activities
Spend a full day exploring the park. Go horse riding with local herders or hike one of the well-marked routes. It’s remote enough to feel off-the-grid but still easily accessible.
If you’re up for something unique, join a local nomad family for a cooking lesson. They’ll teach you how to make khuushuur (deep-fried meat pies), a staple meal in Mongolian cuisine.
Day 5: Visit the Genghis Khan Statue Complex
On the way back to Ulaanbaatar, stop at the Genghis Khan Statue Complex. There’s a giant 40-meter tall statue of Genghis Khan on horseback, which is totally unmissable!
Climb up to the horse’s head for incredible views of the surrounding steppe. It’s not just a tourist attraction—this place holds deep cultural significance.
In the afternoon, take it easy back in Ulaanbaatar. Visit a café or mutei (Mongolian tea house) for some downtime.
Day 6: Fly to the Gobi Desert
Catch a morning flight to Dalanzadgad, the gateway to the Gobi Desert. It’s a short flight, but it saves hours of bumpy road travel.
Once you land, hop in a 4×4 and head towards Yolyn Am (Eagle Valley). The Gobi isn’t just a flat desert—it’s full of surprises like this ice-filled canyon where you’ll take a short hike.
You’ll stay overnight in another ger camp, but this time in the heart of the Gobi. Expect wide open starry skies.
Day 7: Explore Khongoryn Els Sand Dunes
Today’s adventure: the Khongoryn Els Sand Dunes. These 300m high dunes stretch for hundreds of kilometers. You’ll feel like you’re walking through a sand mountain range!
Climbing to the top can be tough, but the views make up for it. If you don’t feel like hiking, try camel riding. Camels are well-adapted to the desert and well taken care of by local nomads.
You’ll return to camp tired but satisfied—don’t forget to watch sunset over the dunes. It’s breathtaking.
Day 8: Drive to Bayanzag (Flaming Cliffs)
Today, visit the Flaming Cliffs, known for their striking red color at sunset. This place is famous for the discovery of dinosaur fossils. You might even see some if you’re lucky.
Certain parts of the Gobi feel like Mars, and this place is one of them. Spend a while exploring and trying to picture how it must have looked millions of years ago.
Day 9: Fly Back to Ulaanbaatar
Catch a flight back to Ulaanbaatar. You’ll want some time to recharge after the desert adventures.
In the afternoon, visit the Bogd Khan Palace Museum. It’s less crowded than other attractions, and you’ll learn about Mongolia’s last king while exploring the quiet surroundings.
Day 10: Karakorum and Erdene Zuu Monastery
Hop in a car and drive to Karakorum, the ancient capital of Mongolia. It’s about 6-7 hours, but the roads aren’t bad, and you’ll pass through some beautiful countryside.
Erdene Zuu Monastery, built in 1586, is the spiritual highlight here. It’s one of Mongolia’s oldest and most important monasteries. Spend time inside and soak up the atmosphere, as it’s still an active religious site.
Stay in a local ger camp just outside Karakorum for the night.
Day 11: Orkhon Valley
The Orkhon Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is rich with historical significance. You can visit the Orkhon Waterfall, which stands out in contrast to the open fields around it.
This is another spot where you can ride horses. It’s still nomad country out here, so don’t pass up the chance to ride alongside the locals if you have the opportunity.
Day 12: Tsenkher Hot Springs
Today, drive to Tsenkher Hot Springs. After days of exploration, this is where you can really relax!
The springs are naturally heated by volcanic activity beneath the surface, and you can unwind in pools while surrounded by beautiful scenery. It’s the ideal way to slow down for a bit.
Day 13: Return to Ulaanbaatar
Make your way back to Ulaanbaatar. It’s a long drive, but you can break it up with stops at random roadside stalls selling local treats or souvenirs.
Back in Ulaanbaatar, use this time to grab any last-minute gifts like cashmere or Mongolian handicrafts. There’s a lot to choose from.
Day 14: Departure
Your two-week Mongolian adventure comes to an end. Spend your final hours wandering the city or sipping coffee at one of the many trendy cafés in Ulaanbaatar.
If you have extra time, you can visit a traditional Mongolian performance at the State Academic Theatre of Opera and Ballet. Otherwise, say your goodbyes to this incredible country and head to the airport for your flight home.
In just 14 days, you’ll experience Mongolia’s stunning landscapes, nomadic culture, and get to know the heart of this remarkable country. It’s an adventure you won’t soon forget!
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