Day Coach Tour of Aglag Buteel Monastery and Meditation Center Including Lunch

Planning a trip to Mongolia and looking for a meaningful, authentic experience beyond city sights? This day coach tour to Aglag Buteel Monastery offers just that — a chance to step into a tranquil world of Buddhist craftsmanship, reflective spaces, and breathtaking views, all within a manageable six-and-a-half-hour outing.

What makes this tour stand out? First, you get to visit a monastery built by a dedicated lama and craftsman, with intricate details like guardian griffins and statues of geckos and scorpions that tell stories of protection and spiritual symbolism. Second, the visit includes a peaceful walk along a special street designed for contemplation, connecting you with nature and your inner self. Third, the tour’s inclusion of lunch and a private group experience means it’s both personal and cost-effective at just under $72 per person.

One potential consideration is the relatively short time at the monastery—three hours — which is enough for an overview but might leave some wanting deeper exploration. Plus, since the tour is weather-dependent, poor conditions could impact your plans, but the provider offers flexibility with refunds or alternative dates.

This tour is ideal for travelers who cherish cultural discovery, spiritual reflection, and scenic outings. If you have a curiosity about Mongolia’s Buddhist traditions or simply want a peaceful escape outside Ulaanbaatar, this experience promises both insight and serenity.

Key Points

• Authentic Cultural Visit: Explore a monastery built by a monk with detailed carvings and symbolic guardian statues.
• Stunning Views & Reflection: The location offers impressive vistas of Dalyn Khavtsal Mountain and a calming environment for contemplation.
• Inclusive Experience: The tour includes transportation, a guided visit, and a thoughtfully prepared lunch.
• Flexible & Private: Only your group participates, with pickup from anywhere in Ulaanbaatar.
• Practical & Price-Friendly: For $71.80, you gain a meaningful cultural experience with easy logistics.
• Weather-Dependent: The trip’s success relies on good weather; cancellations are fully refundable if canceled due to poor conditions.

Exploring the Details: What to Expect on This Day Tour

Easy Pickup and Convenient Meeting Points

Starting from Ulaanbaatar’s Department Store on Peace Avenue, the pickup is straightforward, allowing you to relax as your guide handles the logistics. The tour promises to pick you up from anywhere in Ulaanbaatar, which many travelers find handy, especially if you’re staying in central locations.

The Journey to Aglag Buteel Monastery

The drive to the monastery, located 16 km west of Bornuur soum of Tuv province, takes you through scenic Mongolian landscapes. Although the exact travel time isn’t specified, a 16 km journey typically takes around 20-30 minutes, giving you a glimpse of rural Mongolia en route.

Main Attraction: Aglag Buteel Monastery

The core of the tour is the monastery itself. Built by lama G. Purevbat, it’s not just a religious site but also a crafted masterpiece, showcasing the skill of Buddhist artisans. The entrance features guardians — the Garuda griffin laying eight eggs and a beaver with a fish head — symbolizing protection and spiritual guardianship.

Inside, the sanctuary holds a Buddha figure elevated in reverence, with images of Yanjinlkhama goddess on the right and scenes of heaven and hell on the left. The use of statues, carvings, and paintings—like the gecko and scorpion on large stones—are not just decorative but hold symbolic meanings tied to protection, transformation, and spiritual insight.

Visitors often mention the unique atmosphere created by the detailed decorations and the quiet, contemplative environment. The large stones with statues are particularly striking — you might find yourself pondering the stories they tell.

The Street of Reflection

A special feature is the street designed for contemplation. This pathway, with its peaceful vacuum environment, invites visitors to walk slowly while contemplating human existence, the natural world, and the importance of caring for the Earth. Many reviews note that this area feels almost sacred, providing a space to “sanitize the soul” and connect with both nature and oneself.

Meditation Center and Learning

This site isn’t only about sightseeing; it’s also a space for reflection and learning. You might find the environment conducive to meditation or simply appreciating the stillness that the site offers. The center’s focus on reflection makes it a worthwhile stop for those interested in mindfulness or seeking a break from the busier city life.

Lunch and Return

The tour includes a lunch, which is a great chance to sample local cuisine or enjoy a simple, nourishing meal in a peaceful setting. Afterward, the guide takes you back to Ulaanbaatar, ending the tour at the original pickup point.

Practical Details You Should Know

Duration and Timing

The entire trip lasts approximately 6 hours and 30 minutes. This includes the drive, the visit, and free time at the monastery. The three-hour stay at the site allows enough time for sightseeing, reflection, and photography without rushing.

Group Size and Privacy

This is a private tour, meaning it’s tailored to your group only. Many travelers appreciate the personalized attention and flexibility to ask questions or spend more time at certain spots.

Weather Considerations

The experience is weather-sensitive. If poor weather cancels the trip, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund. Given Mongolia’s unpredictable weather, especially in the mountains, it’s worth checking the forecast beforehand.

Cost and Value

At $71.80 per person, the price covers transportation, guide services, admission fees, and lunch, making it quite reasonable for a day of cultural discovery. Compared to separate costs for transportation and entrance fees, this package offers good value, especially since it’s all arranged for you.

Accessibility & Additional Info

Service animals are allowed, and most travelers can participate. The tour is suitable for anyone interested in cultural or spiritual experiences, with no strict physical requirements.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This experience suits travelers seeking a peaceful day out, those curious about Mongolian Buddhism, or anyone wanting a break from typical tourist spots. It’s also great for visitors who appreciate scenic environments and reflective spaces. Since the tour is private, it’s adaptable for families, couples, or small groups looking for a meaningful, customized outing.

The Sum Up

This coach tour to Aglag Buteel Monastery offers a well-balanced mix of cultural insight, scenic beauty, and peaceful reflection. The detailed craftsmanship, symbolic guardian statues, and serene environment provide a genuine glimpse into Mongolia’s spiritual traditions. The inclusion of lunch and convenient pickup make it both accessible and comfortable, especially for travelers staying in Ulaanbaatar.

While the short duration might leave some wanting more, the experience’s authenticity and tranquility compensate for that. It’s an excellent choice for those interested in spiritual discovery, Mongolian culture, or simply looking for a calming escape into nature and tradition.

Whether you’re a curious traveler or a seasoned meditator, this tour promises a meaningful day packed with beauty, history, and reflection.

FAQ

How do I get picked up for the tour?
The tour offers pickup from anywhere in Ulaanbaatar, starting at the Department Store on Peace Avenue.

Is lunch included?
Yes, the tour includes a thoughtfully prepared lunch, giving you a chance to relax and recharge during the day.

How long is the drive to the monastery?
The drive is approximately 20-30 minutes, covering 16 km west of Bornuur soum, offering scenic views along the way.

What is the main highlight of the visit?
The monastery’s intricate carvings, guardian statues like the Griffins and the gecko and scorpion stones, and the peaceful contemplation street are key highlights.

Can I join if I don’t speak Mongolian?
Yes, since it’s a private tour, language barriers are less of an issue — your guide will assist you throughout.

What should I wear?
Dress comfortably and modestly, especially if you plan to meditate or explore the sacred spaces.

Is the tour suitable in bad weather?
If the weather is poor, the tour may be canceled with a full refund or rescheduled.

How many people typically participate?
It’s a private experience for your group only, ensuring personalized attention.

What’s the best time of year for this tour?
While the tour operates year-round, clear weather enhances the experience, especially for scenic views.

Can I extend my stay at the monastery?
The scheduled three hours is generally enough for sightseeing and reflection; extensions would depend on your guide’s flexibility.

This tour offers a thoughtful introduction to Mongolia’s spiritual side, wrapped in beautiful scenery and cultural craftsmanship. Perfect for those wanting a meaningful, peaceful day away from the city buzz.