Chinggis Khan's Homeland Trail

We depart UB after breakfast and soon stop at a gigantic mounted statue of Chinggis Khan, founder of the great Mongol empire in 13th century. Worth a look is a small basement museum with a display of everyday utensils, belt buckles, knives and sacred animals of Bronze Age and Xiongnu times as well as archaeological findings of the Great Khan period such as ancient tools and goldsmith subjects. 

We climb to an observation deck on the horses head for panoramic views of the surrounding steppe and rugged mountains before continuing to our destination, the Blue lake. It was here that in 1189 Temujin was bestowed kingship over all Mongolian clans. This is the rendezvous with our riding guides and horses. 

We set up a comfortable tent camp and prepare for riding days ahead. 

(Breakfast, lunch, dinner, tent)

After breakfast guides will select you a horse to suit your riding abilities and the tour starts. Riding stocky Mongolian horses requires skills quite different from the western riding style. Horses are used to a different set of commands and behavior on the riders end but still are very responsive and clever animals. Support vehicles transport our food and luggage; they go ahead to allow cooks prepare and serve lunch in pre-agreed spots. 

Accompanied by the local guides we ride east across open grassland with rolling hills in the background that are soon replaced by mountains covered with pine and cedar forests interrupted by granite outcroppings, a feature typical to eastern Siberia. 

We set a tent camp upon reaching Bereeven monastery, once-largest Buddhist center of Eastern Mongolia. 

(Breakfast, lunch, dinner, tent)

We enjoy exciting riding along open spaces with grassy valleys and lush meadows. The terrain allows riding at various different paces from walking to galloping. Significantly, this very area is mentioned in the “Secret History of the Mongols”, a partly historical, partly legendary, and almost contemporary account of the life and times of Chinggis Khan. 

Along the way we visit a series of “Deer steles” that mark burials of steppe warriors of bygone times. These are erect slabs of granite or marble with artistic carving of flying deer, hence is the name. 

After a good day’s ride we relax in a tent camp. 

(Breakfast, lunch, dinner, tent)

The riding pace allows an intimate insight of local life. White felt walled tents of Mongolian nomads and their many herds of livestock dot the landscape. Every day we come across nomads herding their animals and cutting hay if in August and September. Very often people come just to greet us and to exchange news. 

We today camp upon reaching a massive wall like rock depicting chiseled images of seals of over 300 ancient Mongolian clans. 

(Breakfast, lunch, dinner, tent)

As we venture deeper into the Barkh region, we immerse ourselves in the rich culture of the ethnic Buryat people. Their unique lifestyle, influenced by both nomadic and sedentary traditions, reflects the geographical diversity of this area, nestled between the expansive steppe and the dense forest. Along the 808km long river, we witness the mesmerizing sight of numerous migratory birds, drawn to this renowned nesting ground. The air is filled with their calls as they gracefully navigate the skies, creating a captivating spectacle.

(Breakfast, lunch, dinner, tent)

We stay here and we are enveloped in the timeless traditions of the Buryat people. The landscape unfolds before us, revealing the harmonious coexistence of nomadic and sedentary lifestyles shaped by this region's unique geography. Our surroundings are alive with the vibrant presence of migratory birds, their graceful flight patterns adding an ethereal quality to the scenery. This day offers a profound connection to nature and an opportunity to witness the captivating avian life that thrives in this remarkable environment.

(Breakfast, lunch, dinner, tent)

After completing our exhilarating ride, we arrive at the hallowed grounds where Chinggis Khan, the legendary figure, was born in 1162. This location also marks the historic site of his coronation as the ruler of the Mongol Empire in 1206. Our riding adventure concludes here, and we transition to a tranquil resort featuring authentic felt walled tents. Nestled in this idyllic setting, we relax and relish a sense of accomplishment after an eventful day, preparing for a well-deserved rest in the lap of luxury.

(Breakfast, lunch, dinner, ger camp)

We stay at this place and conclude our riding escapade and settle in a cozy resort adorned with traditional felt walled tents. Embracing the tranquility of this permanent setting, we indulge in a leisurely rest day, basking in the comfort and opulence that surrounds us, providing a fitting end to our remarkable adventure.

(Breakfast, lunch, dinner, ger camp)

A long car journey back to Ulaanbaatar is rather uneventful. Upon arriving transfer to your hotel and in the evening meet with your guide at a good-bye dinner. 

(Breakfast, lunch, dinner, hotel)

Transfer to airport for your return flight home. 

(Breakfast)