Mongolia & Naadam Festival Reversed
Mongolia & Naadam Festival Reversed
20 Days Starting and ending in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia
Visiting: Ulaanbaatar, Lake Khovsgol, Jargal Jiguur, Khorgo-Terkhiin Tsagaan Nuur National Park, Tsenkher, Kharkhorin, Mount Khogno Khan, Ongiin Khiid Monastery, Bayanzag, Khongoryn Els, Gobi Desert, Terelj National Park
Tour operator:
Tour code:
2388
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians, Meat
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on an unforgettable journey through Mongolia with the "Mongolia & Naadam Festival Reversed" tour. Begin your adventure in Ulaanbaatar, exploring its rich cultural heritage and vibrant Naadam Eve festivities. Immerse yourself in the exhilarating Naadam Festival, witnessing traditional wrestling, archery, and horse racing. Discover the serene beauty of Lake Khovsgol, the historic sites of Kharkhorin, and the breathtaking landscapes of the Gobi Desert, including the Flaming Cliffs and Khongoryn Els sand dunes. Experience the nomadic lifestyle, visit reindeer breeding families, and relax in soothing hot springs. Conclude your journey with a visit to the Chinggis Khan Equestrian Statue Complex and a traditional Mongolian performance in Ulaanbaatar. This tour offers a perfect blend of cultural immersion, natural beauty, and unique experiences.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1 - 2 : Days 1-2: Fly To Ulaanbaatar
Location: Ulaanbaatar, Lake Khovsgol
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Dinner
Fly overnight to Mongolia’s capital, Ulaanbaatar. On arrival you will be met and transferred to your hotel. This evening, join a welcome meeting at the hotel, a chance to meet your fellow travellers and learn about travelling in Mongolia.
Day 3: Ulaanbaatar
Location: Ulaanbaatar
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
After breakfast begin your explorations with a visit to Gandan, Mongolia's largest and most significant monastery. Afterwards, delve into the country’s rich cultural heritage at the Museum of Mongolian History. Conclude your day with a visit to the Museum of Fine Arts.
Day 4: Naadam Eve
Location: Ulaanbaatar
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today you will embark on a morning drive to the Mongol Nomadic Show, a place to witness the nomadic way of life. Enjoy lunch at the camp before returning to Ulaanbaatar for the Naadam Eve festivities. Stroll through Central Square to admire the vibrant Naadam Mongol costumes on exhibit before spending the rest of the day relaxing or exploring at your leisure.
Day 5: Naadam Festival
Location: Ulaanbaatar
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Prepare for an extraordinary experience over the next two days as you immerse yourself in the annual Naadam Festival. Join locals and nomads at Central Stadium for the grand Opening Ceremony and watch the procession of athletes, officials, and monks. Enjoy the first rounds of wrestling and archery competitions that kick off in the afternoon.
Day 6: Horse Race
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Head beyond the city limits to relish the excitement of the Naadam Festival's second day. Experience the exhilaration of cross-country horseracing, also known as 'tumnii ekh' (leader of ten thousand), a highly anticipated event among young competitors. Join the locals in cheering on the athletes as they showcase their skills amidst the vibrant carnival atmosphere.
Day 7 - 8 : Days 7-8: Lake Khovsgol
Location: Ulaanbaatar, Lake Khovsgol
Accommodation Name: ger camp
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
After breakfast, fly to Môron and embark on a scenic drive to Lake Khovsgol, watching plains and glacial peaks pass by. On arrival, check into your ger camp on the eastern shore of the lake then enjoy a leisurely walk through the forest and visit a reindeer breeding family to gain insight into their way of life. The next day is at leisure for you to explore as you wish.
Day 9: Jargal Jiguur
Location: Jargal Jiguur
Accommodation Name: ger camp
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Set out bright and early to travel by road for Jargal Jiguur, known as the ‘home of the yaks’, due to the many families in the area who herd them. En route there will be plenty of awe-inspiring vistas to admire.
Day 10: Khorgo Terkh
Location: Khorgo-Terkhiin Tsagaan Nuur National Park
Accommodation Name: ger camp
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
This morning you will soak in the breathtaking scenery as you drive southwards towards the tranquil Great White Lake (Terkhiin Tsagaan Nuur). Arrive at your spectacularly placed ger camp, nestled between the Great White Lake and Khorgo Volcano. Enjoy a short hike up to the crater of the volcano for panoramic views, or wander along the lakeshore, where you'll find excellent opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife spotting.
Day 11: Tsenkher
Location: Tsenkher
Accommodation Name: ger camp
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Savour a leisurely morning at your ger camp before departing for Tsenkher Jiguur after lunch, pausing to explore Zayaiin Huree Monastery en route. On arrival, unwind in the soothing hot springs, admire the picturesque surroundings, and settle into your yurt at tonight’s ger camp.
Day 12: Kharkhorin
Location: Kharkhorin
Accommodation Name: ger camp
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Travel the ancient capital of Kharkhorin, situated on the Orkhon River. Explore the ancient sites within Kharkhorin and the memorable Erdene Zuu Monastery. Stay overnight in a ger camp.
Day 13: Mount Khogno Khan
Location: Mount Khogno Khan
Accommodation Name: ger camp
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Travel to Mount Khogno Khan and delve into history as you explore the remnants of the 17th-century monastery, Uvgun Khiids, nestled at the base of the mountain. Take some time to wander through the monastery and its surroundings before continuing your journey to your ger camp accommodation, situated near the enchanting Mongol Sand Dune.
Day 14: Ongiin Khiid Monastery
Location: Ongiin Khiid Monastery
Accommodation Name: ger camp
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Traverse jeep trails through dry plains to reach the serene and scenic banks of the Ongii River. Settle into your riverside ger camp then explore the historic remnants of the revered Ongiin Kiid complex, consisting of two renowned monasteries, the Barlim Khiid to the north and the Khutagt Khiid to the south.
Day 15: Bayanzag
Location: Bayanzag
Accommodation Name: ger camp
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Begin your explorations of the Gobi Desert. Travel by four-wheel drive vehicles to Bayanzag, the ‘Flaming Cliffs’, then visit the Gobi Dinosaurs Cemetery and explore the surrounding landscape. Your overnight stay here will be in a ger camp close by.
Day 16: Khongoryn Els
Location: Khongoryn Els
Accommodation Name: ger camp
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Journey on to Khongoryn Els, home to Mongolia's largest sand dunes. Marvel at the breathtaking desert vistas as you enjoy an immersive experience of the sand dunes both by vehicle and on foot.
Day 17: Gobi Desert
Location: Gobi Desert
Accommodation Name: ger camp
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Enjoy the morning at leisure. Depart for the Three Beauties Mountain range, where you'll explore Vulture Valley. Marvel at the sharp peaks and huge sand dunes while taking in the breathtaking scenery of Eagle's Gorge, also known as Yolyn Am. Return to the camp and visit a nearby Mongolian family to gain insight into their lifestyle and savour traditional Mongolian dairy products.
Day 18: Genghis Khan
Location: Terelj National Park
Accommodation Name: ger camp
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
This morning you will travel to the airport for your flight back to Ulaanbaatar. Upon arrival, continue the journey to Terelj National Park, with a stop en route to visit the Chinggis Khan Equestrian Statue Complex. Spend the afternoon immersing yourself in the natural beauty of the area and spend the night at a ger camp, making the most of these tranquil surroundings.
Day 19: Explore Ulaanbaatar
Location: Ulaanbaatar
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today will be free for leisure. In the evening enjoy a traditional Mongolian performance, followed by a farewell dinner.
Day 20: Depart Ulaanbaatar
Location: Ulaanbaatar
Meals Included: Breakfast
Fly to the UK, arriving home the same or the following day.
What's Included
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Airport Transfers
Transfers from the airport to the hotel and vice versa are included.
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Accommodation
Accommodation in hotels and ger camps throughout the tour is included.
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Meals
Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included on most days of the tour.
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Welcome Meeting
A welcome meeting at the hotel on the first evening is included.
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Guided Tours
Guided tours to various attractions such as Gandan Monastery, Museum of Mongolian History, and Museum of Fine Arts are included.
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Naadam Festival
Entry to the Naadam Festival, including the Opening Ceremony, wrestling, archery competitions, and horse racing events, is included.
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Cultural Experiences
Visits to cultural sites such as the Mongol Nomadic Show, reindeer breeding family, and traditional Mongolian performance are included.
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Scenic Drives
Scenic drives to various locations such as Lake Khovsgol, Jargal Jiguur, and Khorgo Terkh are included.
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National Park Visits
Visits to Terelj National Park and other natural attractions like Vulture Valley and Eagle's Gorge are included.
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Farewell Dinner
A farewell dinner on the last evening in Ulaanbaatar is included.
What's Not Included
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International Flights
International flights to and from Mongolia are not included.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included and must be purchased separately.
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Personal Expenses
Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and beverages are not included.
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Optional Activities
Optional activities and excursions not mentioned in the itinerary are not included.
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Visa Fees
Visa fees for entry into Mongolia are not included.
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Gratuities
Gratuities for guides, drivers, and hotel staff are not included.
Mode of Transport
Travel by a combination of flights, scenic drives, and four-wheel drive vehicles to explore Mongolia's diverse landscapes and cultural sites.
Accommodation
Stay in comfortable hotels in Ulaanbaatar and traditional ger camps in scenic locations such as Lake Khovsgol, Khorgo-Terkhiin Tsagaan Nuur National Park, and the Gobi Desert.
Check out our Q&As
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What activities are planned at Lake Khovsgol?
At Lake Khovsgol, you will check into a ger camp on the eastern shore, enjoy a leisurely walk through the forest, and visit a reindeer breeding family to gain insight into their way of life. The next day is at leisure for you to explore as you wish.
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What will I experience at the Three Beauties Mountain range?
At the Three Beauties Mountain range, you will explore Vulture Valley, marvel at the sharp peaks and huge sand dunes, and take in the breathtaking scenery of Eagle's Gorge (Yolyn Am). You will also visit a nearby Mongolian family to gain insight into their lifestyle and savor traditional Mongolian dairy products.
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What can I expect at the Khongoryn Els sand dunes?
At Khongoryn Els, you will marvel at Mongolia's largest sand dunes and enjoy an immersive experience of the desert vistas both by vehicle and on foot.
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What can I expect during the Naadam Festival?
During the Naadam Festival, you will join locals and nomads at Central Stadium for the grand Opening Ceremony, watch the procession of athletes, officials, and monks, and enjoy the first rounds of wrestling and archery competitions. On the second day, you will experience the excitement of cross-country horseracing, known as 'tumnii ekh' (leader of ten thousand), amidst a vibrant carnival atmosphere.
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What will I see at the Flaming Cliffs in the Gobi Desert?
At the Flaming Cliffs in the Gobi Desert, you will visit the Gobi Dinosaurs Cemetery and explore the surrounding landscape. Your overnight stay will be in a ger camp close by.
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What is included in the visit to Terelj National Park?
In Terelj National Park, you will visit the Chinggis Khan Equestrian Statue Complex, immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the area, and spend the night at a ger camp.
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What is the Mongol Nomadic Show?
The Mongol Nomadic Show is a place where you can witness the nomadic way of life. You will enjoy lunch at the camp before returning to Ulaanbaatar for the Naadam Eve festivities.
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What can I expect at the Ongi River and Ongiin Kiid complex?
At the Ongi River, you will settle into a riverside ger camp and explore the historic remnants of the Ongiin Kiid complex, which consists of two renowned monasteries: Barlim Khiid to the north and Khutagt Khiid to the south.
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What will I see at the Gandan Monastery and the Museum of Mongolian History?
At the Gandan Monastery, you will see Mongolia's largest and most significant monastery. At the Museum of Mongolian History, you will delve into the country's rich cultural heritage. The day concludes with a visit to the Museum of Fine Arts.
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What is the significance of Jargal Jiguur?
Jargal Jiguur is known as the 'home of the yaks' due to the many families in the area who herd them. You will travel by road to this location, admiring awe-inspiring vistas along the way.
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What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?
If, after our confirmation invoice has been issued, you wish to change your travel arrangements in any way, we will endeavour to make these changes, but it may not always be possible. Any changes to confirmed bookings need to be sent to us in writing via your travel agent. Please refer to our booking conditions for further information and fees.
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
Customers booking to travel solo can choose our ‘Happy to Share’ option, which may enable them to share a twin room with other solo customers of the same gender who also request Happy to Share, thus avoiding the need to pay single room supplements. Note that ‘Happy to Share’ requests can be received when you make your booking with us but will not be confirmed until your final payment due date.
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What documents will I receive before I travel?
Your Final Travel Documents are usually sent to you 2-3 weeks prior to your departure. Your travel pack will include your tour itinerary, hotel details, flight e-tickets and a travel guide. If you have booked with a travel agent, your tickets will be dispatched to your travel agent unless we have been otherwise informed.
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Will I be travelling with passengers from other countries?
Our passengers generally enjoy the mixture of British, Australian and American clients on tour. Occasionally we are joined by English-speaking passengers from other countries.
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What is 'Happy to Share'?
Customers booking to travel solo can choose our ‘Happy to Share’ option, which may enable them to share a twin room with other solo customers of the same gender who also request Happy to Share, thus avoiding the need to pay single room supplements. Note that ‘Happy to Share’ requests can be received when you make your booking with us but will not be confirmed until your final payment due date. If a share partner is found, the Single Supplement will be removed from your booking. If a share partner is not found, the Single Supplement will remain and is payable with your final balance in line with our normal booking conditions. Either way, our Operations Team will contact you around 75 days before departure to let you know whether a share partner has been found or not. We regret that Happy to Share requests cannot be accepted within 75 days of departure. Wendy Wu Tours reserves the right to change or withdraw this arrangement at any time.
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Do you allow children on your tours?
We allow children 12 years and over on our group tours. We recommend that families with children of any age take advantage of our private or tailormade tours. This will give you more flexibility while on tour.
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Monday - Saturday
Jul 07, 2025 - Jul 26, 2025Book with Confidence
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Free Date Changes
Wendy Wu allows you to make 1 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 0 days before the start of the tour.
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Low Deposit
Wendy Wu requires a minimum deposit of 350 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 75 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of wendy wu charges.
Up to 75 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 74 days before tour starts: Forfeit 30% of booking price.
At 41 days before tour starts: Forfeit 60% of booking price.
At 27 days before tour starts: Forfeit 90% of booking price.
At 14 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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How we Keep you safe on our Tours
Your safety and well-being will always be our Number 1 priority which is why we’ve instituted the most stringent COVID health and safety protocols on all of our tours. Here is a brief summary of the steps we are taking to ensure you will be safe, secure and satisfied when you travel with us.
Guides and National Escorts
Our National Escorts and guides will conduct a Health and Safety briefing with you before the tour begins and will help everyone ensure they adhere to social distancing, hygiene practises and local regulations. They will carry a supply of face masks and hand sanitiser for you to use free of charge and will, of course, observe the highest level of personal hygiene at all times.
Should anyone on the group fall ill your National Escort will ensure the individual receives swift medical attention and can only return to the group once cleared to do so.
Transport & Sightseeing
Vehicles will be thoroughly cleaned with disinfectant after each excursion service, overnight and between different groups.
You will always have at least one seat between you and your fellow tourers, hand sanitiser will be given to the group on each embarkation and vehicles will be thoroughly ventilated prior to passengers boarding.
Drivers will always embark vehicles after clients, disembark the group vehicle prior to clients disembarking, and maintain social distancing and a high level of personal hygiene at all times.
Your guides will assess the situation on the ground avoiding large crowds – where possible, alter timings and splitting the group into smaller sizes.
Accommodation
Wendy Wu Tours will only offer hotels that have undergone a detailed hygiene assessment, have specific COVID-19 protocols in place and comply with government standards.
We will ensure these protocols include staff practising social distancing and wearing appropriate PPI, regular cleaning and disinfection of high frequency touch points in all areas and food safety.
Dining
All the restaurants we visit will be researched and inspected regularly to ensure that they follow the strictest health, cleanliness and safety guidelines.
All waiting staff will wear face masks and gloves and we will arrange à la carte dining, waiter-served meals or waiter-assisted buffets throughout the tour. We will not share open-buffet meals with other hotel or restaurant guests.
Hand sanitiser will be provided to the group before and after every food and beverage service.