From UB: Day Tour to Chinggis khaan statue and Terelj NP.

If you’re planning a day trip from Ulaanbaatar to see some of Mongolia’s most renowned landmarks, this tour offers a well-organized, budget-friendly option. While we haven’t experienced it firsthand, reviews highlight its smooth flow, knowledgeable guides, and authentic local encounters.

What we love about this tour is its affordability without sacrificing quality, the professionalism of the guide-driver team, and the focus on safety with insured vehicles. The main downside seems to be the early start, which is necessary to beat crowds and traffic—something to consider if you’re not an early riser. This trip is ideal for travelers seeking a comprehensive snapshot of Mongolia’s highlights in a single day, especially those eager for authentic experiences like horse riding or traditional meals.

Key Points

• Cost-effective: Offers great value compared to similar tours.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable and flexible, ensuring a relaxed experience.
• Authentic local activities: Horse rides, traditional lunch, and eagle photo opportunities.
• Early start: Necessary to optimize sightseeing and avoid traffic.
• Includes important landmarks: Genghis Khan statue, Turtle Rock, Aryabal Monastery.
• Family-friendly: Suitable for all ages, with options to customize your day.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary Breakdown: What to Expect

Morning Pick-up and Introduction

The tour begins early, between 07:00-08:00 am, with hotel or guesthouse pick-up, so you can leave the logistics to the team. This early start is designed to maximize your day, especially since traffic in Ulaanbaatar can cause delays. Expect your guide, who is professional and friendly, to greet you promptly and set the tone for a seamless journey.

The Genghis Khan Statue Complex

By 09:00 am, you’ll arrive at the world’s largest equestrian statue, an impressive 40-meter-high figure that dominates the landscape. This landmark really is a symbol of Mongolian pride and history. Inside the complex, there’s an archaeology museum that adds an educational touch, and you’ll have the chance to don traditional Mongolian clothing for photos—a fun way to connect with local culture.

According to reviews, the guide’s knowledge really shines here. One traveler noted, “Our guide Jana arrived at our hotel right on time and we arrived at the Chinggis Khan monument well before the crowds,” allowing for better photos and a less hectic experience.

Transition to Terelj National Park

At around 10:00 am, the journey continues to Gorkhi-Terelj National Park, approximately 65 km northeast of Ulaanbaatar. This part of Mongolia is a landscape painter’s dream—towering granite formations, lush forests, and clear rivers. The drive itself offers scenic views, giving you a taste of Mongolia’s natural beauty.

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Turtle Rock and Rock Formations

Arriving around 10:30 am, you’ll visit Turtle Rock, a stunning natural formation resembling a giant turtle. The 24-meter-tall rock is a favorite photo spot and a highlight of this UNESCO-listed park. Many travelers love how close they can get to nature here; one review mentions, “You can ride a camel or horse and hold a take photo with eagle,” adding a layer of traditional Mongolian experience.

Horse or Camel Rides and Photo Opportunities

While not included in the price, riding a horse or camel is available for a cash fee, typically between 10,000–20,000 tugrik. These activities are popular with visitors who want a bit of adventure and authentic engagement with Mongolia’s nomadic culture. Many reviews praise the guides for their friendliness and willingness to help with photos, making these moments memorable.

Aryabal Meditation Monastery

The tour then moves on to Aryabal Monastery, a peaceful Buddhist site offering a tranquil break from the outdoor activities. Arriving around 11:30 am, you’ll have time to meditate or simply enjoy the natural surroundings. One traveler described it as “a small monastery that offers tranquility and a sense of peace,” which is exactly what many seek here.

A hike up to the monastery provides sweeping views of the park, with some reviews mentioning it as a perfect spot for reflection and photos. Entry tickets for this site cost about 5,000 tugrik, which is a small fee for the serenity and photo opportunities.

Lunch in a Traditional Mongolian Ger

Around 01:00 pm, the group will enjoy a traditional Mongolian meal inside a Ger (yurt). This is often highlighted as a highlight—an authentic taste of local cuisine in a cozy, home-like setting. A reviewer remarked, “If you can imagine, you can experience all of these natural wonders and different activities in this trip only,” emphasizing how this meal complements the outdoor adventures.

Return Journey to Ulaanbaatar

By 02:00 pm, you’ll start heading back to the city, with an expected arrival around 04:00 pm. The return is a good time to relax, chat with fellow travelers, or ask your guide any lingering questions about Mongolia.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

The price of $68 per person is competitive, especially considering it includes transportation, guide service, insurance, and all tolls. Entry tickets for the key attractions (Chinggis Khan statue and Aryabal Monastery) are additional but relatively inexpensive, around 25,000 tugrik total.

What makes this tour stand out is the balance between structured sightseeing and flexibility. The reviews highlight how guides like Jana and Handa manage the schedule carefully, allowing time for rides, photos, and spontaneous questions—making each experience feel personalized. Many reviewers appreciated the professional, punctual service, which is crucial when fitting so much into a single day.

Transportation and Group Size

Traveling in safe, insured cars, the group size tends to be small, which fosters a more intimate experience. The early pickup and organized itinerary mean you won’t have to worry about navigating or wasting time figuring out logistics—everything is handled smoothly.

Authentic Experiences

Not only will you see the iconic Genghis Khan statue and Turtle Rock, but you’ll also have opportunities to hold eagles, ride horses, and taste traditional foods. These moments help travelers connect more deeply with Mongolia’s culture and landscape, rather than just ticking off tourist spots.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is perfect for travelers who want a rundown of Mongolia’s most celebrated sights without the hassle of planning. It’s suitable for families, solo travelers, or couples who enjoy a mix of history, nature, and cultural activities.

If you’re someone eager for authentic experiences—like riding a horse or trying traditional food—this tour offers ample opportunities. Plus, if you’re mindful of your budget but still want a professional, guided experience, you’ll find this tour offers excellent value.

Final Thoughts

This day tour from Ulaanbaatar offers a well-rounded taste of Mongolia’s most famous sights, combined with cultural activities and natural beauty. The thoughtful organization, professional guides, and authentic experiences make it a solid choice for those short on time but eager to see a lot.

While the early start might be a challenge for some, it’s a small price to pay for avoiding crowds and traffic, and for maximizing sightseeing. The inclusions—transport, guide, insurance, and a traditional Mongolian meal—make the cost seem reasonable for a day full of memorable moments.

For travelers looking to capture iconic photos, learn from friendly guides, and experience Mongolia’s heart in a single day, this tour is definitely worth considering.

FAQ

How early do I need to be ready for pickup?
Pick-up starts around 07:00-08:00 am, depending on your location, to ensure you make the most of the day and avoid city traffic.

Are the vehicles safe and insured?
Yes, all transportation is in safety cars with proper insurance, giving peace of mind throughout the trip.

What do I need to bring?
Comfortable shoes, warm clothing, a hat, camera, and water are recommended. Weather can vary, so dressing in layers is wise.

How much do the entry tickets cost?
Entry to the Genghis Khan statue complex is 20,000 tugrik, and Aryabal monastery is 5,000 tugrik. These are paid directly at the sites.

Can I ride a horse or camel?
Riding is available for a cash fee—typically 10,000-20,000 tugrik. You can also take photos with eagles if you pay the owner directly.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, the flexible schedule, safe transport, and interesting landmarks make it family-friendly, especially if children enjoy outdoor activities.

Is it possible to customize the schedule?
Guides are noted for their flexibility, and some reviews mention adjustments to meet participant wishes, making the experience more personalized.

This day trip from Ulaanbaatar offers a fantastic opportunity to see Mongolia’s highlights in a manageable and authentic way. Whether you’re drawn to history, nature, or cultural activities, you’ll leave with amazing memories and plenty of photos to prove it.

You can check availability for your dates here: