Celebrate Mongolia’s New Year the Nomadic Way

What's Included

Meeting and pickup

Itinerary

Day 1
Arrive in Ulaanbaatar, the capital city of Mongolia.
2 stops
1
Sukhbaatar Square
Sükhbaatar Square is the central public square of Ulaanbaatar and the symbolic heart of Mongolia’s modern statehood. Named after revolutionary leader Damdin Sükhbaatar, the square hosts national celebrations, ceremonies, and public gatherings, framed by key cultural and political landmarks. Facing the square is the State Palace of Mongolia, home to the Parliament House. This neoclassical building houses the State Great Khural (Parliament) and features the iconic colonnade with statues of Chinggis Khaan and his successors, representing Mongolia’s continuity from ancient empire to contemporary democracy.
1 hour • Admission ticket included
2
Chinggis Khaan National Museum
Chinggis Khaan Museum is Mongolia’s premier national museum dedicated to the life, legacy, and global impact of Chinggis Khaan and the Mongol Empire. Located in the heart of Ulaanbaatar, the museum showcases rare artifacts, royal seals, traditional attire, and interactive exhibitions spanning from the Xiongnu period to the Great Mongol Empire. It offers visitors a concise yet powerful introduction to Mongolia’s statehood, nomadic civilization, and historical influence on world history.
2 hours • Admission ticket included
Day 2
Arrival in Ulaanbaatar | Drive to Arkhangai: ~525 km | approx. 6–7 hours
1 stop
3
Arkhangai Province
Natural hot springs and immersive nomadic life, including herding, dairy making, and participation in Tsagaan Sar nomadic holiday preparations and celebrations (main days February 17–18). Share traditional Mongolian cuisine with local families, enjoy a shamanic encounter, and unwind in mineral-rich hot springs.
8 hours • Admission ticket free
Day 3
Nomadic Life & Tsagaan Sar Preparations
1 stop
4
Tsenkher Hot Spring
Wake up in the fresh mountain air of Arkhangai Province, home to winter nomadic families. After breakfast, visit local nomads to experience daily winter life, including herding, dairy making, and traditional household activities. Take part in Tsagaan Sar holiday preparations, such as food preparation, milk rituals, and learning about customs associated with Mongolia’s Lunar New Year. In the evening, return to the hot springs to relax and reflect.
8 minutes • Admission ticket included
Day 4
Arkhangai | Tsagaan Sar (First Day of the Lunar New Year)
1 stop
5
Tsenkher Hot Spring
On the first day of Tsagaan Sar, rise early to join nomadic families in welcoming the Year of the Horse. Visit relatives and neighboring households to greet elders and family members, following traditional New Year customs. Exchange snuff bottles, share milk tea, and enjoy freshly prepared steamed dumplings (buuz) — symbolic foods of prosperity and renewal. Experience firsthand how nomadic Mongolians welcome the New Year through respect, ritual, and hospitality, gaining deep insight into one of Mongolia’s most important cultural celebrations. In the evening, return to the camp for rest and relaxation in the natural hot springs.
6 hours • Admission ticket included
Day 5
Arkhangai | Spiritual Traditions & Nomadic Life
1 stop
6
Arkhangai Province
Continue immersive nomadic experiences, spending time with local families to learn about winter livelihoods, storytelling, and cultural values passed down through generations. In the afternoon, take part in a shamanic encounter, offering insight into Mongolia’s ancient spiritual traditions and the deep connection between nature, ancestors, and nomadic worldview. End the day with a peaceful soak in the mineral-rich hot springs, allowing time for reflection and rest.
4 hours • Admission ticket free
Day 6
Arkhangai to Uvurkhangai | Karakhorum & Erdene Zuu
2 stops
7
Depart Arkhangai and drive to Uvurkhangai Province, the historic center of the Mongol Empire. Visit the Karakhorum Museum, followed by Erdene Zuu Monastery, Mongolia’s oldest Buddhist monastery, surrounded by ancient stupas and history.
1 hour • Admission ticket included
8
Kharakhorum Museum
Depart Arkhangai and drive to Uvurkhangai Province, the historic center of the Mongol Empire. Visit the Karakhorum Museum, followed by Erdene Zuu Monastery, Mongolia’s oldest Buddhist monastery, surrounded by ancient stupas and history.
1 hour • Admission ticket included
Day 7
Mongol Nomadic Art Camp | Winter Nomadic Lifestyle
1 stop
9
Kharkhorin
Spend the day at a Mongol Nomadic Art Camp, where traditional culture, creativity, and winter nomadic life come together in one place. Engage in hands-on traditional arts and crafts, enjoy camel riding and horseback riding, and learn Mongolian movement practices through guided demonstrations. Experience the warmth of traditional winter gers, observe daily winter nomadic activities, and gain deeper insight into authentic Mongolian culture and steppe living.
6 hours • Admission ticket free
Day 8
Ulaanbaatar | City Tour
2 stops
10
Zaisan Hill Monument
Zaisan Hill is a popular viewpoint overlooking Ulaanbaatar, offering one of the best panoramic views of the city and surrounding mountains. At its summit stands the Zaisan Memorial, a Soviet-era monument honoring Mongolian–Soviet friendship, decorated with mosaic murals depicting key moments in modern history. Today, Zaisan Hill is both a historical site and a favorite spot for visitors to take in the cityscape, especially at sunrise and sunset.
1 hour • Admission ticket included
11
The State Department Store
The State Department Store is one of the best places in Ulaanbaatar to find the widest selection of handmade gifts made by local artisans. Inside, visitors can browse authentic Mongolian crafts such as felt products, cashmere items, traditional clothing, jewelry, artworks, and souvenirs sourced from across the country. It’s a convenient one-stop destination to support local makers while taking home meaningful, high-quality gifts that reflect Mongolia’s culture and craftsmanship.
2 hours • Admission ticket included
Day 9
Terelj National Park | Nature & Winter Activities
1 stop
12
Gorkhi-Terelj National Park
Depart Ulaanbaatar and travel east toward Terelj National Park. En route, visit the impressive Chinggis Khaan Horse Complex, home to the world’s largest equestrian statue and a symbolic gateway to Mongolia’s imperial history. Continue to Terelj National Park, stopping at the iconic Turtle Rock, followed by a visit to a Meditation Temple nestled in the surrounding hills. Time for quiet reflection and gentle walking in the pristine alpine landscape. Arrive at your Terelj accommodation in the late afternoon and enjoy a relaxed evening surrounded by nature.
12 hours • Admission ticket included
Day 10
Terelj National Park | Winter Activities
1 stop
13
Ariyabal Meditation Temple
February in Terelj offers crisp, clear winter days that are not overly cold, making it a comfortable time to enjoy outdoor experiences. After a relaxed morning, enjoy dog sledding on the frozen river, a memorable winter activity that lets you glide across the icy landscape surrounded by snow-covered valleys and granite formations. After the activity, return to the Terelj camp for lunch and time to rest, reflect, or enjoy the peaceful natural surroundings before the journey onward.
6 hours • Admission ticket included

Additional info

• Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
• Service animals allowed
• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Specialized infant seats are available
• Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

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