How to Plan Your UNESCO Bogd Khan Mountain & Monastery Tour from Ulaanbaatar

If you’re visiting Ulaanbaatar, taking a UNESCO Bogd Khan Mountain & Monastery tour is a must-do experience. This tour takes you to Manzshir Monastery, located in the south of the Bogd Khan Uul Mountain, a UNESCO World Heritage site with tentative status. You’ll choose your horse and ride it to the Monastery, learn about local nomadic life and religion, and savor lunch as you explore Mongolia’s spectacular countryside. Here’s your guide on how to plan your UNESCO Bogd Khan Mountain & Monastery tour from Ulaanbaatar.

Experience

The UNESCO Bogd Khan Mountain & Monastery tour takes you on a horseback ride to the Manzshir Monastery located south of the Bogd Khan Mountain. On the tour, you can enjoy the view of the majestic wildlife-filled Bogd Khan Mountain while learning about local nomadic life and religion. You will visit Manzshir Monastery, with more than 20 temples and over 300 resident monks, and enjoy lunch while exploring Mongolia’s spectacular countryside.

Highlights

– Choose your horse and ride it to Manzshir Monastery
– Enjoy the view of the majestic wildlife-filled Bogd Khan Mountain
– Learn about local nomadic life and religion
– Savor lunch as you explore Mongolia’s spectacular countryside
– Have a hassle-free journey with included hotel transfers

Full Description

The UNESCO Bogd Khan Mountain & Monastery tour is a full-day experience, which starts in the morning. You’ll be picked up from your Ulaanbaatar hotel and transferred to the Bogd Khan Uul National Park, where Manzshir Monastery is located. The park covers an area of 41,651 hectares and is home to over 200 species of birds and animals.

Once you reach the park, you’ll start your horseback ride to Manzshir Monastery. The ride takes you through the Bailii valley, along the Manzshir river, and up to the monastery. You can choose your horse for the ride and enjoy the view of the majestic wildlife-filled Bogd Khan Mountain.

Manzshir Monastery is a complex of more than 20 temples and over 300 resident monks. The Monastery was established in 1733 and has been restored several times. It is a popular place for locals to hike, picnic, and hang out. You’ll learn about the history behind the area while enjoying a walk in the Bogd Khan Uul National Park or a short horseback riding experience.

After visiting Manzshir Monastery, you’ll savor lunch as you explore Mongolia’s spectacular countryside. The lunch is local-style and will give you a taste of Mongolian cuisine.

Your tour will end with a transfer back to your Ulaanbaatar hotel in the evening.

Inclusions

– English-speaking local guide
– Local style lunch

Booking

To book your UNESCO Bogd Khan Mountain & Monastery tour, visit this link. The tour includes hotel transfers and lunch.

Conclusion

The UNESCO Bogd Khan Mountain & Monastery tour is a must-do experience if you’re visiting Ulaanbaatar. It takes you on a horseback ride to Manzshir Monastery, where you can learn about local nomadic life and religion. You’ll savor lunch as you explore Mongolia’s spectacular countryside and have a hassle-free journey with included hotel transfers. Book your tour today and experience the beauty of Bogd Khan Uul National Park.

An Insider’s Guide to Ulaanbaatar: Uncovering Hidden Gems and Unique Experiences

Ulaanbaatar, also known as the “Red Hero” city, is the capital of Mongolia and has a rich history and culture. While many tourists flock to the well-known attractions such as Sukhbaatar Square or the National Museum of Mongolia, there are many hidden gems to explore as well. Let’s dive into an insider’s guide to the city.

Local Attractions: Discovering Hidden Gems

One of the lesser-known attractions is the Zaisan Memorial. Located on a hill overlooking the city, it offers a breathtaking view of Ulaanbaatar and the surrounding hills. For history buffs, the Museum of Natural History showcases the country’s fauna and flora, including a dinosaur skeleton which is over 70 million years old. Another unique spot is the Choijin Lama Temple Museum, home to a collection of 18th and 19th century Buddhist art and artifacts.

If you are feeling adventurous, head to the outskirts of the city and visit Gorkhi-Terelj National Park, where you can explore rugged landscapes, go horseback riding, or relax in a traditional Mongolian ger camp.

Dining Spots: Exploring the Local Cuisine

Mongolian cuisine is unique and not well known outside the region. Some notable traditional dishes include khuushuur, which are fried meat pies, and buuz, steamed meat-filled dumplings. For a more upscale experience, try the modern Mongolian cuisine at Twelve Tables or the rooftop restaurant at Shangri-La Hotel.

Did you know that Mongolia is the birthplace of the global soup dumpling trend? The xiao long bao at Hu Hot Mongolian Grill is said to be the best in the city.

Cultural Experiences: Embracing Local Traditions

Mongolian culture is deeply rooted in traditions, many of which are still practiced today. One such tradition is the Naadam Festival, which takes place in July and showcases the country’s “three manly sports” – wrestling, archery, and horse racing. On a smaller scale, visit the Tumen Ekh ensemble for a performance of traditional Mongolian music and dance.

For a unique perspective on the local culture, consider booking a homestay with a nomadic family in the nearby countryside.

Local History: Exploring Fascinating Stories

Ulaanbaatar has a rich and fascinating history, from the rise and fall of the Mongol Empire to the Soviet occupation. Visit the Gandan Monastery, which survived the purges of the 1930s that saw the destruction of most of Mongolia’s religious buildings. The monastery complex is also home to the tallest standing Buddha statue in the country. Another intriguing spot is the Museum of Victims of Political Persecution, which tells the story of those who suffered during the Stalinist purges.

Off-The-Beaten-Path Suggestions: Unforgettable Adventures

For an unforgettable adventure, take a night excursion to witness the stars in the Gobi Desert. Alternatively, visit the Nalaikh coal mine, which operated from the late 1800s until the 1990s and was the first industrial mining operation in Mongolia.

Another unique experience is to visit a traditional Mongolian wrestling match, which is a deeply embedded national sport.

In conclusion, Ulaanbaatar has plenty to offer for the curious traveler. By exploring hidden gems, embracing local traditions, and seeking out unforgettable adventures, visitors can discover the true heart and soul of the city.