Beijing (China) | Elsen Tasarkhai (Mongolia) | Gorkhi-Terelj National Park (Mongolia) | Ulaanbaatar (Mongolia)
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Welcome to Mongolia! Arrive in Ulaanbaatar at any time and make your own way to the hotel to check in and settle in after your journey. As one of the most sparsely populated countries in the world, Mongolia is known for its vast open landscapes and rich nomadic heritage-an incredible setting for the adventure ahead. This evening, meet your Chief Experience Officer (CEO) and fellow travelers at a welcome briefing, where you'll get an overview of the journey. Afterward, enjoy a relaxed evening with the option to join your group for dinner at a local spot, a perfect opportunity to connect and kick off your time together.
Your opportunity to meet your CEO and fellow travellers, and learn more about your tour. Don't forget to see the notice in the lobby (or ask reception) for the official time and place to meet up with the group. After your welcome meeting, join your CEO for an optional group dinner.
Start your first full day in Ulaanbaatar with a guided tour exploring the cultural and historical highlights of Mongolia's capital. Begin at the revered Gandan Monastery, one of the country's most important Buddhist sites, where you'll encounter the impressive 26-metre gold-leafed statue of Migjid Janraisig, a powerful symbol of Mongolia's spiritual heritage. Continue on to Zaisan Hill, climbing to the summit for sweeping panoramic views over the city, along with a striking Soviet-era memorial that reflects Mongolia's complex 20th-century history. After some free time for lunch, visit the Bogd Khan Winter and Summer Palace, once home to Mongolia's last king. Here, you'll gain insight into the country's royal past as you explore a fascinating collection of Buddhist artworks, royal treasures, and unique historical artifacts. Return to the hotel in the late afternoon, with the rest of the day at leisure to relax or continue exploring at your own pace.
Visit the highlights of Ulaanbaatar with a guided tour to the Gandan Monastery, Bogd Khan Palace, and Zaisan Hill - where you can take in a bird's eye view of the city.
Free time to relax and explore at your leisure in Ulaanbaatar.
Leave the city behind this morning and journey west across Mongolia's vast steppe, where endless grasslands stretch to the horizon-a reminder that Mongolia is one of the least densely populated countries on Earth. Arrive at Elsen Tasarkhai, often referred to as the "Mini Gobi," a unique landscape where sweeping sand dunes rise from the surrounding plains. Spend the afternoon exploring and hiking through this remarkable stretch of desert. Continue on to your ger camp, where you'll settle into your traditional accommodation, an authentic way nomadic families have lived for centuries. This evening, enjoy a hearty Mongolian barbecue dinner before unwinding under the wide-open sky and taking in the peaceful beauty of the steppe.
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Discover the striking landscapes of Elsen Tasarkhai, a rare 80 km stretch of golden sand dunes set against Mongolia's vast grassy steppe, forming part of the expansive Mongol Els system. Hike along the sweeping ridgelines for panoramic views across rolling dunes and open plains.
Begin the day with breakfast at your ger camp before heading into the rugged landscapes surrounding Khugnu Khan Mountain. Set out on a scenic hike through pine forests and rocky ridgelines, taking in sweeping views across the Mongolian steppe, before visiting the atmospheric ruins of Ovgon Khiid Monastery, a centuries-old monastery built into the mountainside. Later, enjoy an authentic cultural experience with a local nomadic family, learning to make traditional Mongolian dumplings together inside their working ger before sharing a home-cooked lunch. Spend the afternoon gaining insight into daily nomadic life, with the chance to experience and observe traditional activities that form part of the family's everyday routine before returning to camp for free time and dinner under the vast Mongolian skies.
Set out for a rewarding hike on Khugnu Khan Mountain, a striking granite massif rising above the surrounding steppe. The trail winds through pine forest to rocky ridgelines, where sweeping panoramic views await. Hike details: Distance: 2-3 km (1.25 - 2 miles) Difficulty: Moderate difficulty
Discover the evocative ruins of Ovgon Khiid, a 17th-century monastery set dramatically into the rocky slopes of Khugnu Khan. One of Mongolia's oldest religious sites, it was largely destroyed during the Soviet purges and has since been partially restored-its atmospheric setting among towering boulders adding to its quiet sense of history.
Visit a local nomadic family and gain a firsthand insight into the traditions and daily rhythms of Mongolian pastoral life, where herding livestock across seasonal pastures has been practiced for generations. Enjoy a hands-on dumpling-making experience inside a traditional ger, share lunch with the family, and spend time experiencing the authentic routines and customs that shape life on the steppe.
Travel east today toward the stunning landscapes of Gorkhi-Terelj National Park. Known for its dramatic granite rock formations, forested hills, and winding river valleys, Terelj offers a striking contrast to the open steppe you've explored so far. Arrive at your ger camp and take some time to relax and soak in the peaceful surroundings. If you're feeling active, head out on an optional short hike to get your first taste of the park's unique terrain. This evening, enjoy dinner at camp and settle in for another night in a traditional ger.
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Spend a full day exploring the natural and cultural highlights of Gorkhi-Terelj National Park, one of Mongolia's most beautiful protected areas, known for its dramatic rock formations and serene alpine landscapes just outside the capital. Begin with a visit to Turtle Rock, a striking natural formation shaped like a giant turtle and considered a symbol of longevity in Mongolian culture. Continue on to the Aryaval Meditation Monastery, reached by a scenic hillside climb lined with carved Buddhist mantras, offering panoramic views over the valley and a peaceful atmosphere for reflection. Return to camp for lunch before trying your hand at traditional Mongolian archery, one of the historic sports of Naadam. In the afternoon, head out for a guided hike through the surrounding river valleys and forested hills, home to wildlife such as marmots and birds of prey. After a full day in nature and culture combined, return to camp for dinner and a relaxed evening in the peaceful surroundings of the park.
A striking granite outcrop shaped by natural erosion into the form of a giant turtle, this iconic site holds deep cultural significance in Mongolia, where turtles symbolize longevity and stability.
Perched on a hillside, Aryaval Meditation Monastery is reached via a scenic 1 km staircase lined with carved Buddhist mantras and zodiac animal symbols. While the monastery itself is relatively modern, the setting is serene and the panoramic views are exceptional-well worth the climb.
Discover the art of traditional Mongolian archery (surnai), one of the three classic Naadam games. With guidance from a local expert, learn about historic bow styles, time-honoured techniques, and take part in a hands-on practice session-suitable for all experience levels.
Explore the scenic river valleys and forested hills of Gorkhi-Terelj National Park, where rolling landscapes are home to wildlife such as ibex, marmots, and birds of prey. Routes are tailored to the group's fitness level, offering a flexible and rewarding outdoor experience. Hike details: Distance: 3-4 km (2 - 2.5 miles) Difficulty: Moderate difficulty
Return to Ulaanbaatar today after your time in the wilderness, travelling back through the sweeping steppe landscapes of central Mongolia. Along the way, stop at one of the country's most iconic landmarks, the Genghis Khan Equestrian Statue Complex. Standing at an incredible 40 metres tall, this stainless steel monument honours Mongolia's most legendary historical figure and offers panoramic views over the surrounding plains from the horse's head. Continue onward into the capital and arrive back at your hotel in the early afternoon to check in and refresh. The rest of the day is yours to relax or explore Ulaanbaatar further and in the evening, choose to join your group for an optional farewell dinner, marking the end of your journey through Mongolia.
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Towering over the banks of the Tuul River, the 131ft tall Genghis Khan Equestrian Statue is truly a sight to behold amid the flatlands of Mongolia. According to legend, this is where the mighty Khan discovered a golden whip that aided his many conquests. Stop by the visitors' centre, then ascend into the head of the horse, where a panoramic view of the landscape awaits.
Today, begin one of the journey's most unforgettable experiences: the legendary overnight rail crossing from Mongolia into Beijing. After an early packed breakfast and transfer to the station, board the train and settle in as the city lights fade behind you and the endless Mongolian steppe stretches toward the horizon. Watch remote landscapes unfold from your window - rolling grasslands, isolated settlements, and vast open wilderness untouched by time - as the train cuts across the heart of Mongolia toward the Chinese frontier. More than just a transfer, this iconic rail journey is a rare chance to experience the immense scale, solitude, and raw beauty of Central Asia while travelling one of the region's most storied routes overnight.
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
As the train rolls deeper into the night, sink into the timeless rhythm of the rails and watch the world unfold beyond your window. Vast landscapes, distant lights, and endless horizons accompany your journey onward, turning the voyage itself into part of the adventure as you travel toward your next extraordinary destination.
Welcome to China! Arrive in Beijing in the afternoon after your journey from Mongolia where you will say goodbye to your fellow group members and CEO upon arrival at the train station. If you're not ready to leave, we highly recommend post-accommodation to fully experience all Beijing has to offer.
Not ready to leave? Your CEO can help with any onward travel arrangements you require.
G Adventures is informing us of the following additional details regarding their Mongolia To Beijing By Rail tour:
Max 16, avg 12.
Your Welcome Moment: Welcome Meeting - Meet Your CEO and Group, UlaanbaatarYour Foodie Moment: Nomadic Family Visit with Mongolian Dumpling Making, Elsen Tasarkhai. Guided tour of Gandan Monastery. Visit to Zaisan Hill. Visit to Bogd Khan Winter & Summer Palace. Explore and hike the Elsen Tasarkhai sand dunes. Traditional Mongolian barbecue dinner. Hike to Khugnu Khan Mountain. Visit to Uvgun Monastery. Visit to a nomadic family. Mongolian dumpling-making experience. Lunch shared with a nomadic family. Dinners at ger camps. Visit to Gorkhi-Terelj National Park. Visit to Turtle Rock. Visit to Aryaval Meditation Monastery. Archery session. Hiking in Gorkhi-Terelj National Park. Visit to Genghis Khan Equestrian Statue Complex. Overnight train from Ulaanbaatar to Beijing. All transport between destinations and to/from included activities.
Explore Ulaanbaatar's Buddhist heritage at Gandan Monastery and Bogd Khan Palace, Wander golden sand dunes and wake up in a traditional ger camp beneath vast open skies, Sit down for lunch with a nomadic family and try your hand at making dumplings, Hike through Terelj National Park past Turtle Rock and Aryaval Monastery, Fall asleep on the Trans-Mongolian Railway as the steppe rolls by outside
Travel Insurance: Travel insurance is compulsory in order to participate on any of our trips. When travelling on a group trip, you will not be permitted to join the group until evidence of travel insurance has been sighted by your CEO, who will take note of your insurance details. When selecting a travel insurance policy please bear in mind that all clients must have medical coverage and that we require a minimum coverage of USD 200,000 for repatriation and emergency rescue. We strongly recommend that the policy also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage and personal effects. If you have credit card insurance we require proof of purchase of the trip (a receipt of credit card statement) with a credit card in your name. Contact your bank for details of their participating insurer, the level of coverage and emergency contact telephone number.
G Adventures is offering the following optional activities at an additional cost, subject to availability:
Gorkhi Terelj National Park- Afternoon Hike in the National Park
Hotels (3 nts), ger camps (4 nts), overnight train (1 nt)
7 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 4 dinners
Eating is a big part of traveling. Travelling with G Adventures you experience the vast array of wonderful food that is available out in the world. Generally meals are not included in the trip price when there is a choice of eating options, to give you the maximum flexibility in deciding where, what and with whom to eat. It also gives you more budgeting flexibility, though generally food is cheap. Our groups tend to eat together to enable you to taste a larger variety of dishes and enjoy each other's company. There is no obligation to do this though. Your CEO will be able to suggest favourite restaurants during your trip. While trekking in remote regions, food is included, plentiful and made of fresh local ingredients. For all trips, please refer to the meals included and budget information.For all trips please refer to the meals included and budget information for included meals and meal budgets.
CEO (Chief Experience Officer) throughout, local guides.
All our G Adventures group trip is accompanied by a G Adventures Chief Experience Officer (CEO) in Mongolia & China. The aim of the group leader is to take the hassle out of your travels and to help you have the best trip possible. They will provide information on the places you are travelling through, offer suggestions for things to do and see, recommend great local eating venues and introduce you to our local friends. While not being guides in the traditional sense you can expect them to have a broad general knowledge of the countries visited on the trip, including historical, cultural, religious and social aspects.
Private vehicle, walking, overnight train.
You must be 18 to travel unaccompanied on a G Adventures tour. For minors travelling with a guardian over 21 years old, the minimum age is 12.
In Asia the dress standard is more conservative than it is back home. When packing try to pick loose, lightweight, long clothing that will keep you cool in the usually hot and humid climate of Asian summers. In predominately Buddhist countries we ask that you dress respectfully and avoid very short shorts/skirts and singlets/tanktops when visiting temples or mosques or other holy sites.
Cold weather:o Long-sleeved shirts or sweatero Scarfo Warm gloveso Warm hato Warm layersConservative Dress:o Modest clothing that covers knees and shoulders (Long pants, long skirts, shirts that cover shoulders)o Shawl or scarf (for temple visits)Documents:o Flight info (required) (Printouts of e-tickets may be required at the border)o Insurance info (required) (With photocopies)o Passport (required) (With photocopies)o Vouchers and pre-departure information (required)o Visas or vaccination certificates (With photocopies)Essentials:o Toiletries (required) (Shampoo, bodywash, soap, etc.)o Binoculars (optional)o Camera (With extra memory cards and batteries)o Cash, credit and debit cardso Day pack (Used for daily excursions or short overnights)o Ear plugso First-aid kit (should contain lip balm with sunscreen, sunscreen, whistle, Aspirin, Ibuprofen, bandaids/plasters, tape, anti-histamines, antibacterial gel/wipes, antiseptic cream, Imodium or similar tablets for mild cases of diarrhea, rehydration powder, water purification tablets or drops, insect repellent, sewing kit, extra prescription drugs you may be taking)o Flashlight/torch (Headlamps are ideal)o Fleece top/sweatero Footwearo Hato Headphones (Noise-cancelling recommended)o Locks for bagso Long pants/jeanso Moneybelto Outlet adaptero Personal entertainment (Reading and writing materials, cards, music player, etc.)o Reusable water bottleo Shirts/t-shirtso Sleepwearo Small travel towelo Sunglasseso Swimwearo Watch and alarm clocko Waterproof backpack covero Windproof rain jacketHealth & Safety:o Face masks (Clients will be only be required to wear a face mask where it is mandated by local regulations.)o Hand sanitizero Pen (Please bring your own pen for filling out documents.)Light Hiking:o Hiking bootso Hiking pants (Convertible/Zip-off and quick dry recommended)o Walking poles Train Travel (Optional):o Slip-on shoeso Small container with lido Travel cutlery o Travel or camp cupWarm Weather:o Sandals/flip-flopso Shorts/skirts (Longer shorts/skirts are recommended)o Sturdy water shoes/sandalso Sun hat/bandanao Swimwear
What you need to bring depends on the trip you have chosen and the countries or regions you are planning to visit. We suggest that you pack as lightly as possible as your are expected to carry your own luggage. As a rule we try not to have to walk more than 15-20 minutes with your bags which is why we recommend keeping the weight of your bags between 10-15kg/22-30lb. While suitcases are not recommended for most G Adventures trips a rolling bag of small to medium size (no XXL ones please!) is quite suitable for this trip as they need to fit under the beds when travelling on sleeper trains. You will also need a day pack/bag to carry water, cameras and other electronics like ipods and mobile phones.CHINADo not bring any knives or swords into China (gifts or otherwise). If they do make it into the country, they will not be permitted on trains. If you purchase a knife or sword while travelling elsewhere before arriving in China your best option is to post/mail it home before entering the country as no post/mail companies in China will accept it as a parcel.
Laundry facilities are offered by some of our hotels for a charge. There will be times when you may want to or have to do your own laundry so we suggest you bring non-polluting/biodegradable soap.
Standard: Comfortable tourist-class accommodations with character; mix of public and private transport.