Khuwsgul (known as blue pearl sweet lake)-Central Mongolia 10days

Traveling to Mongolia is like stepping into a different world—vast, rugged, and filled with surprising beauty. While many travelers flock to the Gobi Desert and Genghis Khan’s statues, a trip focusing on Khuwsgul Lake offers a uniquely serene and picturesque experience. This 10-day tour by Woodpecker’s Tours promises not only spectacular scenery but a chance to connect with Mongolia’s natural and cultural treasures.

What we really appreciate about this tour is its balance of guided visits and free time to explore, the variety of landscapes—from mountains to lakes to deserts—and the inclusive approach that covers essentials like meals and accommodations. However, it’s worth noting that the pace can be quite busy with long travel days, especially if you’re not used to rugged terrain.

This adventure suits travelers who crave authentic, off-the-beaten-path experiences, enjoy outdoor activities, and are comfortable with camping and remote settings. If you’re eager to see Mongolia’s diverse environments while having a well-organized itinerary, this tour might just be perfect.

Key Points

• Authentic Exploration: Combines cultural sites like Amarbayasgalant Monastery with natural wonders like Khuwsgul Lake.
• Variety of Landscapes: From lush forests and mountain lakes to deserts and gullies.
• Inclusive Pricing: Meals, tents, and activities are covered, offering good value for the nature and scenery you’ll encounter.
• Active Experiences: Horse riding, boat trips, hiking, hot springs—there’s plenty to keep active travelers engaged.
• Remote Settings: Many stops are in less touristy, peaceful locations—ideal for relaxation and reflection.
• Group Size and Flexibility: A private tour, so your group will be small and tailored to your pace.

The Story of Your 10 Days in Mongolia

Day 1: Discovering Amarbayasgalant Monastery

Your journey begins with a visit to Amarbayasgalant Monastery, one of Mongolia’s most revered spiritual sites. Surrounded by countryside, this ancient monastery offers a glimpse into Mongolia’s religious past and its ongoing spiritual life. The guide mentioned that it’s one of the practicing old Mongolian monasteries, which adds a sense of authenticity and history. Expect about 4 hours exploring the site, with admission included, giving you ample time to wander through the grounds, admire the intricate architecture, and soak in the peaceful atmosphere.

Day 2: Mountain and River Camping at Uran Togoo & Tulga

The second day takes you to Uran Togoo and Tulga, where the landscape shifts to rugged mountains and lush river valleys. The highlight here is camping by the Selenge River, a perfect spot for unwinding after a day of exploring. This part of the trip is about enjoying nature’s simplicity—swimming, relaxing, or simply taking in the vast views. The admission is free, making it an accessible stop to connect with nature.

Day 3: The Magic of Khuwsgul Waterway

By Day 3, you arrive at the Khuwsgul Waterway, often called the “heaven on earth.” This is the iconic highlight of the tour—a place so breathtaking that many describe it as a must-see in Mongolia. Expect around 6 hours on the road or lakeside, with plenty of opportunities to photograph its shimmering waters and surrounding wilderness. The admission is included; this ensures your visit is smooth, leaving more time for you to soak in the views.

Day 4: Khuvsgul-Sor Resort and Outdoor Activities

Relaxing at the Khuvsgul-Sor Resort gives you a chance to enjoy a range of activities—horse riding, boating, hiking, and walking. It’s a day to appreciate the landscape in a more leisurely manner. The resort’s location offers stunning vistas of the lake, perfect for unwinding amidst nature. The admission is included, and many travelers find the variety of activities makes this a day of fun and relaxation.

Day 5: Remote Forest and River Camping at Jargalantyn Am Site

Next, you’ll escape to the Jargalantyn Am Site, deep in a peaceful forested area near rivers and lakes in the Khangai Mountains. It’s one of the quieter spots, ideal for disconnecting. The review indicates that evenings around the campfire create a warm, communal atmosphere, perfect for sharing stories under Mongolia’s starry sky. Admission here is free, emphasizing the remote, untouched nature of this rest stop.

Day 6: Terkhiin Tsagaan Nuur National Park—Mongolia’s Most Stunning Lake

The tour’s highlight for many travelers is the visit to Terkhiin Tsagaan Nuur National Park. Known as “White Lake,” it boasts striking landscapes with volcanic formations, rolling hills, and a pristine lake. Expect about 5 hours of travel, with plenty of time for activities like walking or just soaking in the scenery. The admission is included, allowing you to explore without worries about extra costs.

Day 7: Full Day in the Khangai Mountain Landscape

Spending an entire day in the Khangai Mountain region offers ample opportunity to appreciate Mongolia’s rugged beauty. Expect scenic hikes, photo stops, and chances to observe local wildlife and plants. The slow pace lets you truly absorb the environment, making it a memorable, peaceful experience.

Day 8: Relaxing at the Hot Spring

A visit to an 80-degree hot spring makes for a relaxing break from the outdoor adventures. The warm waters are not only soothing but a highlight for many, providing a natural spa experience. It’s a unique opportunity to unwind in Mongolia’s geothermal waters, with the benefit of stunning mountain views.

Day 9: Gobi Desert and Camel Rides

The landscape dramatically shifts on Day 9 with a journey into Gobi’s sand dunes and camel rides. The contrast from lush lakes to desert sands is striking and offers a truly diverse experience. Many travelers find the Gobi section refreshingly different—vast, open, and wild. It’s a reminder of Mongolia’s incredible geographical diversity.

Day 10: Exploring Preszewalski Horse Park

Your final stop is the Preszewalski-Takhi Horse Park, where you can learn about Mongolia’s famous horses—considered some of the most resilient and unique breeds in the world. A peaceful way to wrap up your trip, observing the animals and understanding their importance to Mongolian culture.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The price of $1,850 per person covers most essentials: fuel, tents, sleeping mats, meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner), and activities like boat rides and horse riding. This makes it good value considering the variety of experiences and remote locations visited.

Not included are alcohol and snacks on the way, so if you want to toast the scenery or indulge on local treats, you’ll need to bring some extra. The tour starts at 8:00 am, with pickup offered, making it easy to plan your day. It’s designed as a private tour, meaning your group will enjoy a more personalized experience without strangers.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re after an authentic Mongolian adventure with a mix of cultural sites, stunning lakes, mountain landscapes, and outdoor activities, this tour offers excellent value and varied scenery. It’s especially suited for outdoor enthusiasts, nature lovers, and travelers comfortable with camping and long drives through remote regions.

While the pace is fairly packed, the itinerary’s diversity keeps things engaging. It’s a great choice for those who want to see Mongolia’s best natural attractions without the hassle of planning each detail themselves.

FAQs

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, transportation is part of the package, and it’s arranged to cover the long distances between sites comfortably.

Can I join if I have no camping experience?
The tour provides tents, sleeping bags, and mats, so you don’t need your own camping gear, but some comfort with outdoor sleeping is helpful.

What should I bring for the trip?
Bring comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor activities, warm layers for cooler evenings, and essentials like sunscreen and insect repellent.

Are meals included?
Yes, breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included for all 10 days, giving you a chance to enjoy local flavors and keep energized.

Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?
Yes, it’s a private tour, so solo travelers can join easily and enjoy a personalized experience with just their group.

What’s the best time of year for this tour?
While not explicitly stated, Mongolia’s best seasons are typically late spring to early autumn when the weather is milder and landscapes are at their most vibrant.

Final Verdict

This 10-day tour around Khuwsgul Lake and other Mongolian highlights offers a well-rounded adventure for those seeking natural beauty, outdoor activities, and a taste of Mongolia’s peaceful wilderness. It balances organized visits with free time, giving travelers a chance to truly connect with the landscapes and cultures they encounter.

Ideal for active, curious travelers who enjoy scenic drives, hiking, and camping, the experience is especially good value considering meals, activities, and accommodations are included. If you’re looking for an immersive trip that captures Mongolia’s diverse environments—desert dunes, mountain lakes, forested mountains—this tour is a solid choice.

Note: This tour is operated by Woodpecker’s Tours and is eligible for free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start date, offering flexibility should your plans change.