Kharkhorin’s 13 Best Tours (With Prices & Reviews)

Kharkhorin is a must-visit for anyone interested in Mongolia’s past and its rugged landscapes. This town, once the heart of the Mongol Empire, offers a rare combination of ancient ruins, stunning scenery, and nomadic culture. What makes Kharkhorin particularly appealing is the variety of tours available — from quick overnight trips exploring the Old Capital City Museum and Erdene Zuu Monastery to immersive multi-day treks through the Orkhon Valley. For those craving a taste of Mongolia’s desert, the Elsen Tasarkhai Sand Dunes make for a memorable adventure, especially with camel rides in tow. Whether you want a short introduction or a deep dive into the countryside, Kharkhorin’s tours deliver real experiences, not just touristy stops.

One of our favorite options is the 2-day Elsen Tasarkhai Sand Dunes tour — it’s perfect for travelers short on time but eager to see Mongolia’s iconic landscapes and ancient sites. If you’re ready to commit more days and want to truly understand Mongolian culture, the 8-day horse trek covering the Orkhon Valley offers an unforgettable journey. For a winter twist, the 4-day Winter Adventure Tour combines snow-dusted dunes, hot springs, and wild horses, making it a versatile choice. And for those seeking an all-inclusive experience, the 15-day guided tour provides a comprehensive look at Mongolia’s history, nature, and nomadic life. Keep reading to find the right fit for your trip.

1. Elsen Tasarkhai Sand Dunes 2 days tour

This 2-day tour takes you through Mongolia’s stunning Elsen Tasarkhai Mini Gobi and historic sites in Kharkhorin. The highlight is the chance to ride camels across the 80 km stretch of golden sand dunes, which create a striking contrast against the surrounding mountains and grasslands. The guide explains the dunes’ geology and nomadic traditions, making this a scenic yet educational experience. The tour also includes a visit to the 17th-century Khugnu Tarniin Khiid monastery, once a Buddhist pilgrimage site, and a guided exploration of Kharkhorin town, home to the Old Capital City Museum and Erdene Zuu Monastery—the oldest monastery in Mongolia, built in 1586.

This trip offers a balanced mix of nature and history, perfect for travelers looking for a quick yet immersive outing. Its admission tickets are included, and the camel rides with nomadic families add a personal touch. With just two days, it’s a manageable tour that delivers a lot — from sandy adventures to cultural sites. Perfect for those with limited time but a curiosity for Mongolia’s landscape and past.

Bottom Line: An excellent short trip for desert lovers and history enthusiasts, offering a real taste of Mongolia’s sand dunes and ancient monasteries.

2. Ulaanbaatar: Orkhon Valley 8-Day Horse Trek & Cultural Tour

This 8-day trek is a deep dive into Mongolia’s wild, historic heartland. Starting in Ulaanbaatar, you’ll visit Hustai National Park to see the famous Przewalski’s horse, and explore Ugii Lake, known for its birdlife. The tour’s centerpiece is the Orkhon Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where you’ll ride past stunning waterfalls, ancient sites, and traditional nomadic families. The experience includes horse trekking from four to eight days, giving you a real sense of Mongolia’s rugged terrain and nomadic lifestyle. The local guides share stories of the Mongol Empire’s capital and show you how traditional yurts are set up.

This tour stands out for its combination of natural beauty and culture. You’ll get to meet local horsemen, learn their daily routines, and witness the stunning scenery from horseback. While it’s a longer trip, the value in experiencing Mongolia’s wilderness and history in tandem is unmatched. It’s ideal for adventure seekers with some riding experience and those craving authenticity.

Bottom Line: A rewarding multi-day trek that combines horseback riding, cultural insights, and UNESCO-listed landscapes — great for active travelers wanting to go beyond the surface.

3. 4-Day Winter Adventure Tour/Central Mongolia

For those visiting in winter, this 4-day tour offers a chance to see Mongolia’s snowy landscapes in full glory. You’ll explore the UNESCO-listed Orkhon Valley, visit the Erdene Zuu Monastery, and learn about the Great Mongolian Empire. The tour includes horse riding, camel riding, and dog sledding, giving you a true taste of winter in Mongolia. The highlight is walking on frozen dunes and lakes, including the Elsen Tasarkhai sand dunes, transformed into a winter wonderland.

The trip also offers a chance to relax in Tsenkher Hot Springs, providing warmth after days spent outdoors. The combination of cultural visits and winter activities makes it a versatile option for those wanting a snowy adventure. With guided hikes and wildlife spotting, you’ll experience Mongolia’s winter magic up close.

Bottom Line: Ideal for winter travelers wanting snow-covered dunes, hot springs, and cultural sights, with a good variety of outdoor activities.

4. Mongolia: Mini Gobi, Orkhon, and Kharkhorin 4 Day Tour

This 4-day journey explores Mongolia’s Mini Gobi, Orkhon Valley, and Kharkhorin. It features a visit to Khustai National Park, home to the reintroduced wild Przewalski’s horse, plus the striking sand dunes of Mini Gobi. The UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Orkhon Valley offers scenic river views and ancient ruins, while the Turtle Rock and Erdene Zuu Monastery highlight Mongolia’s spiritual history.

What makes this tour stand out is the well-rounded itinerary and value for money at $650 per person. It includes guided tours, entrance fees, and stays in traditional guesthouses or with nomadic families, providing an authentic experience. The tour is suited for travelers wanting a comprehensive short trip that balances natural beauty with cultural history.

Bottom Line: A great choice for those seeking a multi-faceted Mongolian experience in just four days, combining wildlife, history, and landscapes.

5. Mongolia: Gobi Desert and Kharkhorin, Central Mongolia Tour

Spanning 10 days, this extensive tour covers the vast Gobi Desert, Kharkhorin, and other highlights. You’ll visit the famous Flaming Cliffs for dinosaur fossils, explore Kharkhorin’s ancient ruins, and enjoy Camel rides across the desert. The tour includes visits to Erdene Zuu Monastery, allowing an immersive look into Mongolia’s spiritual heritage. The trip combines nature, history, and nomadic culture, with some days dedicated to exploring canyons, sand dunes, and cultural sites.

While the price is higher at $3,000, it offers an in-depth experience with local guides, authentic nomadic stays, and a focus on Mongolia’s diverse landscapes. It’s perfect for travelers who want to see everything from the desert to the mountains over an extended period.

Bottom Line: For those looking to see the iconic Gobi and its surroundings with plenty of time to explore, this tour offers excellent value.

6. Mini Gobi, Orkhon, Tuvkhun Monastery & Kharkhorin 4-Day Tour

This 4-day tour combines Mongolia’s natural and spiritual sights. The Mini Gobi offers desert landscapes, while the Orkhon Valley features waterfalls and lush scenery. Visiting Tuvkhun Monastery adds a touch of mountain serenity, with its cliffside architecture blending into the forest. The tour also includes stops at Kharkhorin’s historic sites, such as Turtle Rock and Erdene Zuu Monastery.

The itinerary balances adventure and reflection, with activities like horse riding and exploring sacred sites. The inclusion of local homestays enhances the authenticity. This tour is suited for travelers wanting a mix of natural beauty and spiritual experience in a short trip.

Bottom Line: A well-rounded option for those interested in Mongolia’s landscapes and monasteries, with a comfortable pace and cultural insights.

7. Great Gobi to Khuvsgul Lake 16 Days Tour

If you’re in for the long haul, this 16-day journey from the Gobi Desert to Khuvsgul Lake covers some of Mongolia’s most iconic spots. Traveling by 4WD, you’ll experience horse trekking, camel riding, and visits to hot springs. Highlights include riding through the desert, exploring Khangai region, and relaxing at Khuvsgul Lake, known for its clear waters and surrounding forests.

This trip offers a comprehensive look at Mongolia, combining adventure with cultural discovery. It’s ideal for travelers who want to see the country’s diversity over a longer period, with expert guides and flexible itineraries.

Bottom Line: Perfect for extended travelers eager to experience Mongolia’s varied landscapes from desert to mountain lakes.

8. 4-Days Central Mongolia Winter/Summer Tour

This 4-day tour reveals Mongolia’s seasonal beauty, whether winter’s snow or summer’s green. You’ll visit Kharkhorin, Tsenkher Hot Springs, and the Elsen Tasarkhai sand dunes. Activities include horse riding, camel riding, and seeing wild Przewalski’s horses in Khustai Park. The tour combines cultural sites with outdoor adventures, like walking on frozen lakes and dunes or relaxing in thermal springs.

The flexible itinerary suits travelers who want a short, active exploration of Mongolia’s central region, with options for winter or summer visits. It’s good for those interested in wildlife, hot springs, and history.

Bottom Line: A flexible, well-rounded trip for those wanting a quick taste of Mongolia’s natural and cultural highlights.

9. 5-Days Central Mongolia Winter/Summer Tour

Building on the previous tour, this 5-day itinerary offers more time to explore Kharkhorin, Tsenkher Hot Springs, and Khustai National Park. It includes riding camels in the sand dunes and visiting the Chinggis Khan statue. The trip offers a mix of outdoor activities and cultural sites, perfect for travelers wanting a comprehensive short visit.

The tour stands out for its focus on wild horses at Khustai Park and the opportunity to experience nomadic life at traditional yurts. It’s suited for active travelers who want to maximize their time.

Bottom Line: An excellent, slightly longer option for those seeking a broader experience of Mongolia’s landscapes and culture.

10. Central Mongolia: Kharkhorin and Semi Gobi 2 days tour

This 2-day tour is a budget-friendly way to cover Kharkhorin’s ancient sites and the Semi Gobi’s mini sand dunes. It offers a guided visit to Erdene Zuu Monastery, Kharkhorin’s historic ruins, and the semi-desert dunes—all with a stay in a traditional guesthouse or with a nomadic family. The professional guide driver ensures a smooth experience and punctuality, making this ideal for those with limited time or tighter budgets.

Highlights include seeing Turtle Rock and experiencing local Mongolian lifestyle firsthand. It’s a practical choice for travelers wanting a concise overview with authentic culture.

Bottom Line: Perfect for budget travelers or those short on time who still want a full taste of Mongolia’s history and scenery.

11. Ulaanbaatar: 7-Day Central Mongolia Tour with Meals

This 7-day tour from Ulaanbaatar covers the key sites of Central Mongolia, including Kharkhorin, Erdenezuu Monastery, and the Mini Gobi. It features stays with nomadic families, hot spring visits, and camel rides. The tour includes meals and guided excursions, making it a comfortable way to learn about Mongolia’s history and pastoral life.

The itinerary emphasizes cultural interactions, with opportunities to try traditional Mongolian barbecue and stay in authentic gers. It’s well-suited for travelers who want a comprehensive experience with some comfort.

Bottom Line: A good choice for travelers wanting guided, all-inclusive exploration with culture and local cuisine.

12. Ulaanbaatar: Khustai NP, Semi Gobi & Kharkhorin Tour

This 3-day tour covers Khustai National Park, Semi Gobi, and Kharkhorin. It includes camel and horse riding, visits to nomadic families, and the Erdene Zuu Monastery. The tour provides a balanced mix of outdoor activities, scenic landscapes, and cultural sites for travelers with limited time.

The highlight is the chance to see wild Przewalski’s horses and experience Mongolian countryside life firsthand. It’s perfect for those wanting a shorter yet enriching trip.

Bottom Line: An efficient itinerary for travelers who want a quick, active introduction to Mongolia’s nature and history.

13. Mongolia: 15-Day Guided Tour with Ger Accommodation

For the dedicated explorer, this 15-day tour showcases Mongolia’s top sights, including Chinggis Khaan statue, Turtle Rock, and Ariyabal Meditation Temple. It features guided visits to ancient temples, rock paintings, and stays in traditional gers. The tour offers a thorough look at Mongolia’s history, religion, and landscapes.

While pricier at $2,790, it’s ideal for travelers seeking an in-depth, structured experience with the convenience of organized transportation and expert guides. It’s best suited for history lovers and those eager for a comprehensive Mongolian adventure.

Bottom Line: A detailed, immersive tour for travelers wanting a full picture of Mongolia’s cultural and natural treasures.

How to Choose the Right Tour in Kharkhorin

When selecting a tour, consider your budget, available time, and interests. Short trips like the 2-day sand dunes or 2-day Kharkhorin & Semi Gobi are perfect for a quick taste, especially if you’re passing through or have limited days. Longer options, such as the 8-day horse trek or 15-day guided tour, suit travelers eager to immerse themselves in Mongolia’s landscapes and culture.

Think about your activity level — if you love horse riding and outdoor adventures, the horse trek or winter tours will be most satisfying. If you prefer cultural sites and history, the guided cultural tours with stays with nomadic families are ideal. Also, consider the season — winter tours offer snow and hot springs, while summer trips showcase lush landscapes.

Booking early is recommended, especially for popular longer tours or those during peak seasons. Many tours include meals, entrance fees, and guides, so check what’s included to avoid surprises.

With such a diverse selection, Kharkhorin offers more than just a look into history—it’s a full experience with landscapes that change with the seasons and adventures suitable for every interest. For a quick escape, the 2-day sand dunes or Semi Gobi tour are excellent choices. For those wanting to explore Mongolia’s wilderness by horseback, the 8-day trek or longer guided tours make for unforgettable journeys. Whatever your travel style, booking early will secure your spot on one of these authentic Mongolian adventures.