KHARKHIRAA AND TURGEN TREKKING TOUR

ITINERARY

• Arrival in Ulaanbaatar: Guided City Visits

  Upon arrival in Ulaanbaatar (UB), you will be met by your guide and transferred to a hotel in the city center. Time permitting, you will be taken on a guided tour of some of the city’s highlights, including a giant Buddha statue at Mongolia’s main Buddhist center, the National Museum, and the central square. A traditional throat singing and contortion performance will be presented at the end of the day. During a welcome dinner, you will receive an informal introduction to the tour ahead. (Dinner, hotel)

• Flight to Western Mongolia and Transfer to a Trekking Camp

  Begin your journey with a transfer to the airport for a flight to Uvs Province in western Mongolia, a region renowned for its cultural diversity and breathtaking landscapes. This area is inhabited by several ethnic minorities, each with its unique customs and traditions. These communities speak dialects that vary slightly from the standard Mongolian language and are celebrated for their remarkable contributions to the nation’s wrestling heritage, having nurtured many of its legendary champions.

  As you approach your destination, look out the window for a spectacular view of Uvs Lake, Mongolia's largest lake, which offers a stunning introduction to the natural beauty of the region. Upon landing, transfer to Uliastai Valley. Here, we'll set up our first camp amidst the pristine wilderness, providing an ideal base for our upcoming adventures.

  Throughout the trek, your tents, food, and luggage will be transported by two-humped Bactrian camels. These magnificent animals belong to the ethnic Khoton nomads, who will join our group this evening. Their presence offers a unique opportunity to learn about their nomadic lifestyle and the symbiotic relationship they share with their camels and the land. As the day comes to a close, settle into your camp and relish the sense of adventure that the journey promises. (Breakfast, lunch, dinner, tent)

• Trek to the Blue Lake

  Our trek begins with an ascent of the Uliastai Pass (2410m), revealing the breathtaking view of a freshwater alpine gem known as the "Blue Lake." Beyond the lake, you'll witness the rugged folds and snow-capped peaks of the Kharkhiraa and Turgen mountain ranges. After enjoying a picnic lunch, we'll descend to the lake and trek along its scenic shoreline, arriving at our campsite situated at 1795m above sea level. Our camel caravan will join us shortly after lunch to set up camp and prepare dinner. This will be our daily routine throughout the trek. Spend the night in tents by the serene "Blue Lake." (Breakfast, lunch, dinner, tent)

• Trek to Turgen River

  As we leave the Blue Lake behind, we'll traverse a series of gentle ridges and descend into the valley of the Turgen river. This torrential river, fed by the massive glaciers of the towering Turgen mountain massif, carves its path through the valley. The massif itself rises to nearly 4000 meters, its snow-capped peaks standing majestically against the sky. We'll set up camp in the tranquil valley of the Turgen River, surrounded by the untouched wilderness. As the sun sets, enjoy the peaceful ambiance and the connection to nature that this remote location provides. (Breakfast, lunch, dinner, tent)

• Trek to Dund Khoroo Mountain

  We leave the Turgen River behind and ascend a low shoulder, leading us into the Kharkhiraa River valley. As we traverse this picturesque landscape, we are surrounded by numerous burial mounds, remnants of a rich history dating back to the Bronze Age, that dot our route like silent sentinels of the past.

  This well-trodden path is vital for the Khoton people, who rely on it during their seasonal migrations from their winter quarters to the lush summer pastures nestled in the high mountain areas. Depending on the time of year, we may be fortunate enough to witness a: camels, their humps swaying under the weight of the burden, move gracefully along the riverside, led by horsemen who navigate the terrain with practiced ease.

  As the day draws to a close, we set up camp on the banks of the Kharkhiraa River, at an elevation of 1860 meters above sea level. The campsite is framed by stunning fifty-meter-high red rock cliffs on the opposite bank, creating an impressive backdrop for our evening. Once again, we will rest in cozy tents, enjoying the tranquility of the wilderness and sharing stories under the vast, starlit sky. (Breakfast, lunch, dinner, tent)

• Trek to Kharkhiraa Pass

  We continue our trek further upstream, where the majestic Kharkhiraa Peak, soaring to an impressive 4,037 meters above sea level, dominates the horizon with its grandeur. To our right, the snowy summits of the Turgen Massif come into view, adding to the breathtaking scenery. The trail winds and ascends, tracing the contours of the river valley nestled between two towering rock faces. This evening, we will set up camp at an elevation of 2,660 meters, just before the trail steepens as it approaches the pass. The stunning Turgen Massif remains within close reach of our campsite, promising a spectacular backdrop for our night under the stars. (Breakfast, lunch, dinner, tent)

• Excursion to Alpine Lakes

  Without changing our camp location, we hike to explore several alpine lakes nestled within the Turgen mountain massif. This excursion allows us to soak in the breathtaking scenery and enjoy a refreshing half-day break after days of physical exertion. As we trek, we’ll encounter vibrant alpine flora and the tranquil blue waters of the lakes, which reflect the majestic peaks above.

  For those who prefer a more leisurely pace, the camp offers a peaceful retreat where you can relax, read, or simply enjoy the natural beauty around you. Whether you choose to hike or unwind at camp, this day presents a wonderful opportunity to rejuvenate and prepare for the adventures that lie ahead. (Breakfast, lunch, dinner, tent)

• Cross the Kharkhiraa Pass and descend to the “Olon Nuur” Valley

  A steep climb brings us to the top of the 2,976-meter pass, where we are greeted by breathtaking view of snow-capped mountains, distant desert plains that seem to shimmer in the sunlight. Below us, turquoise lakes glisten in the valleys, contrasting beautifully with the surrounding terrain. On clear days, we can even spot the Sayan mountain range in Russia.

  “Many Lakes” is an alpine meadow, dotted with a many small lakes and marshy soil. The area is also a popular summer grazing ground for the Khoton nomads, who have long relied on its rich pastures for their livestock. As we descend, we will see their felt tents, known as gers, which provide a cozy shelter against the elements. You will see the nomads tending to their large herds of yaks and goats, which graze peacefully on the lush grass, a sight that adds a unique charm to our journey through this beautiful region. (Breakfast, lunch, dinner, tent)

• Cross the Black Goat Pass

  We traverse the Olon Nuur valley and climb to a high pass at 2,959 meters. The ascent is gentle, allowing us to enjoy the stunning views, but the steep descent challenges our footing as we make our way down to the Black Goat valley, flanked by two parallel ridges extending from Turgen Peak.

  The lower slopes are densely forested, providing a habitat for the elusive snow leopard and its primary prey, the wild mountain goat. Upon reaching the valley floor, we set up our tent camp, taking a moment to appreciate the beauty around us.

• Trek along the Black Goat valley

  Throughout the day we trek downstream along a swift mountain river that flows through the Black Goat valley with wooded slopes on one side and rugged mountainsides on the other. This is a relatively easy day with a gentle incline throughout the way. (Breakfast, lunch, dinner, tent)

• The last trekking day, transfer to Ulgii town

  We continue downstream along the Black Goat valley. As we walk toward our pick-up point, each step filled with a sense of accomplishment, we reflect on the adventures we’ve had. Upon finishing the trek, we take a moment to say goodbye to the Khoton camel herders before driving to Ulgii, a vibrant provincial capital where the majority of the population is comprised of Kazakhs.

  Tonight, you will have the opportunity to enjoy an evening filled with traditional Kazakh songs and music. You’ll also savor delicious Kazakh delicacies, giving you a taste of the local cuisine. To complete the experience, we will spend the night in cozy felt-walled gers. (Breakfast, lunch, dinner, hotel)

• Flight back to Ulaanbaatar, Farewell Dinner

  Transfer to Ulgii airport and take a flight back to Ulaanbaatar. Upon arrival, we will transfer to the Toru Hotel. You have the rest of the day to relax, explore the city, or indulge in some shopping for souvenirs and traditional crafts. In the evening, we will all gather for a farewell dinner, sharing stories and reminiscing about the experiences we’ve had during our journey. This will be an opportunity to celebrate our time together and bid farewell to new friends. (Breakfast, dinner, hotel)

• Departure transfer

  Transfer to the airport for your return flight home. (Breakfast)