Explore Ulaanbaatar, Karakorum, Elsen Tasarkhai and Terelj National Park on this 8-day cultural and wilderness tour — connecting with nomadic communities and Mongolia's timeless grassland traditions.
Mongolia is one of the few places where life still follows the rhythm of nature. Endless grasslands stretch towards the horizon, nomadic families continue traditions passed down through generations, and the vast open landscapes invite you to slow down and experience travel at a different pace. This carefully curated eight-day journey blends Mongolia's rich cultural heritage with its spectacular natural scenery, offering an experience that feels both immersive and restorative.
Designed for travellers seeking meaningful cultural encounters without sacrificing comfort, this itinerary combines the country's iconic landmarks with genuine moments of connection. You'll explore the historic streets of Ulaanbaatar, wander through the ancient capital of Karakorum, spend time among the rolling sand dunes of Elsen Tasarkhai, and discover the peaceful valleys of Terelj National Park. Along the way, you'll meet nomadic families, experience traditional Mongolian hospitality, enjoy local cuisine, and gain a deeper understanding of a way of life that has remained remarkably unchanged for centuries.
From: SGD 2,580 per person (based on 2 to 4 travellers sharing twin accommodation)
Travel Period
Private departures can be arranged for couples, families and small groups.
Your Mongolian adventure begins as you arrive at Chinggis Khaan International Airport, the gateway to one of the world's least densely populated countries. After meeting your local guide, transfer into Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia's vibrant capital where modern life sits alongside centuries-old traditions.
The remainder of the day is yours to unwind after your journey. Settle into your hotel, enjoy a leisurely evening, or simply relax and prepare for the adventures ahead.
Overnight in Ulaanbaatar.
Accommodation options (subject to availability): Novotel Ulaanbaatar
After breakfast, begin exploring Mongolia's fascinating capital, where Buddhist traditions, Soviet influences and contemporary culture come together.
Your first stop is Gandan Monastery, the country's most significant active Buddhist monastery. Home to monks in crimson robes and an impressive gilded statue of Avalokiteshvara, it offers a peaceful introduction to Mongolia's spiritual heritage.
Later, visit the Bogd Khaan Palace Museum, once the winter residence of Mongolia's last king. Its collection of royal artefacts, ceremonial costumes and religious treasures offers insight into the country's royal past.
Continue to Zaisan Memorial Hill, where panoramic views stretch across Ulaanbaatar and the surrounding mountains. As the city unfolds beneath you, your guide will share stories of Mongolia's modern history and remarkable transformation.
Enjoy dinner before returning to your hotel for a restful evening.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight in Ulaanbaatar.
Accommodation options (subject to availability): Novotel Ulaanbaatar
Leave the city behind as the landscape gradually opens into endless grasslands, scattered with grazing livestock and traditional white gers that dot the horizon. The drive itself is part of the experience, revealing Mongolia's immense sense of freedom and space.
Arrive at Elsen Tasarkhai, a remarkable stretch of sand dunes often referred to as the Mini Gobi. Here, golden dunes meet rolling grasslands, creating one of Mongolia's most distinctive landscapes.
Enjoy a traditional camel ride across the dunes before taking time to wander the area at your own pace. The changing light across the sands creates wonderful opportunities for photography, while the quiet surroundings offer a chance to simply absorb the vastness of the landscape.
As evening approaches, settle into your countryside resort and enjoy dinner surrounded by Mongolia's open wilderness.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight in Elsen Tasarkhai.
Accommodation options (subject to availability): Burd Star Resort or similar
Today takes you to Karakorum, the legendary capital established by Genghis Khan during the height of the Mongol Empire. Although little remains of the original city, its historical significance continues to shape Mongolia's national identity.
Visit Erdene Zuu Monastery, Mongolia's oldest surviving Buddhist monastery, surrounded by its iconic white stupas. Despite centuries of upheaval, the monastery remains an important symbol of the country's spiritual resilience.
Continue to the Karakorum Museum, where archaeological discoveries help bring the ancient capital to life, before visiting Khaadyn Khad Hill, offering sweeping views across the surrounding valley.
Following lunch, return to Elsen Tasarkhai. The late afternoon is intentionally left unhurried, allowing you to relax at the resort, enjoy the peaceful surroundings or simply watch the changing colours of the Mongolian steppe as evening falls.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight in Elsen Tasarkhai.
Accommodation options (subject to availability): Burd Star Resort or similar
After breakfast, travel east towards the Mongol Nomadic Camp, where Mongolia's centuries-old traditions are brought to life through authentic cultural experiences rather than museum displays. This is an opportunity to gain a deeper appreciation of the customs that continue to shape daily life across the country's vast steppe.
You'll be welcomed into the world of Mongolia's nomadic communities through demonstrations of traditional dairy production, the importance of the country's five treasured domestic animals, and the customs that have sustained families for generations. Visiting a nomadic household offers a rare glimpse into a lifestyle built around hospitality, resilience and harmony with nature.
Following lunch, continue your scenic drive to Gorkhi-Terelj National Park, one of Mongolia's most picturesque protected landscapes. Granite rock formations rise from rolling valleys, while forests and open grasslands create a peaceful setting that feels far removed from city life.
Arrive at your resort in time for dinner before settling in for a relaxing evening surrounded by nature.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight in Terelj National Park.
Accommodation options (subject to availability): Terelj Star Resort or similar
Wake to the crisp mountain air of Terelj National Park before setting out to explore one of Mongolia's most scenic regions.
Begin with a visit to the iconic Turtle Rock, a remarkable granite formation naturally shaped over thousands of years. Surrounded by sweeping valleys and wildflowers during the warmer months, it has become one of the country's most recognisable natural landmarks.
Continue to the Ariyabal Meditation Temple, perched on a hillside overlooking the national park. The peaceful walk to the temple is rewarded with panoramic views across forests, rivers and distant mountains. The tranquil setting encourages a slower pace and offers time for quiet reflection.
After lunch, visit a local nomadic family to experience Mongolia's legendary hospitality firsthand. Learn about daily life inside a traditional ger, hear stories of life on the steppe, and gain insight into customs that continue to define Mongolian culture.
Later, enjoy a gentle horse-riding experience through the surrounding countryside. Horses have long been central to Mongolia's identity, and riding across these open landscapes offers a fitting way to connect with the country's rich equestrian heritage.
Return to your resort for a relaxed evening beneath Mongolia's expansive skies.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight in Terelj National Park.
Accommodation options (subject to availability): Terelj Star Resort or similar
After breakfast, leave the peaceful landscapes of Terelj behind and journey towards one of Mongolia's most impressive modern landmarks, the Chinggis Khaan Statue Complex.
Standing 40 metres high, this remarkable stainless steel monument honours Mongolia's legendary founder and is recognised as the world's tallest equestrian statue. Climb to the viewing platform for sweeping views across the surrounding steppe while learning about the extraordinary legacy of Chinggis Khaan and the empire that once connected East and West.
Following lunch, return to Ulaanbaatar, where you'll have time to browse a renowned cashmere outlet and the State Department Store. Mongolia is celebrated worldwide for its exceptionally soft cashmere, making this an ideal opportunity to find beautifully crafted souvenirs.
In the evening, enjoy a traditional Mongolian folklore performance featuring throat singing, morin khuur (horsehead fiddle) music and vibrant cultural dances. It provides a memorable finale to your journey and celebrates the artistic traditions that continue to thrive today.
Return to your hotel for your final evening in Mongolia.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight in Ulaanbaatar.
Accommodation options (subject to availability): Novotel Ulaanbaatar
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast before checking out of your hotel.
Your guide will transfer you to Chinggis Khaan International Airport for your onward journey. As you leave Mongolia behind, you'll take with you memories of sweeping grasslands, warm nomadic hospitality, ancient history and moments of quiet reflection beneath some of the world's biggest skies.
This may be the end of your journey, but Mongolia has a remarkable way of staying with you long after you've returned home.
Meals: Breakfast
