2-Day Karakorum, Mini Gobi & Hustai Tour

Erdene Zuu Monastery, founded in 1586, is widely regarded as the oldest surviving Buddhist monastery in Mongolia. Located in Kharkhorin, near the ancient capital of the Mongol Empire, Karakorum, the monastery was built partly using stones from the ruins of the ancient city.
The monastery once housed dozens of temples, but many were destroyed during the religious purges of the 1930s. The remaining temples and sacred structures were preserved as a museum in 1947, helping protect this important part of Mongolia’s cultural and religious heritage.
Today, visitors can admire its historic temples, 108 stupas surrounding the monastery’s walls, and traditional Buddhist architecture while learning about Mongolia’s rich spiritual history.

Opened on June 4, 2011, Kharkhorin Museum showcases the rich history of the ancient Mongol capital, Karakorum, and the surrounding Orkhon Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The museum displays archaeological discoveries from different periods, including the Stone Age, Bronze Age, and Mongol Empire. Highlights include ancient coins issued under Mongol rulers, a gerege (an official pass used by Mongol Empire messengers), pottery, Buddhist sculptures, and military artifacts.

Elsen Tasarkhai, often called the Mini Gobi, is a scenic stretch of sand dunes extending approximately 96 km across parts of Uvurkhangai and Bulgan provinces.
The dunes are surrounded by mountains, green vegetation, and open steppe, creating a striking contrast between desert and grassland landscapes. The area is ideal for camel riding, experiencing traditional nomadic life, and enjoying Mongolia’s natural beauty.
The nearby Khugnu Khan Mountains and surrounding tourist camps make Elsen Tasarkhai a popular stop for travelers exploring central Mongolia.

The nomadic herder families living near the Mini Gobi raise the traditional five types of livestock: horses, camels, cattle, sheep, and goats. They make their living by herding animals and producing traditional dairy products. Visitors can observe their daily routines and gain insight into Mongolia’s traditional nomadic lifestyle.
Stay overnight in a traditional Mongolian ger heated by a wood- or dung-burning stove, and enjoy the beautiful starry sky over the open steppe.

Övörkhangai Province was established in 1931. One of its districts, Kharkhorin, is home to the ancient city of Karakorum, the former capital of the Mongol Empire and an important archaeological site that continues to attract researchers and historians from around the world.
Karakorum existed for approximately 140 years, serving as the capital of the Mongol Empire for 32 years. The city was destroyed several times, including in 1380 and 1466, but was subsequently rebuilt on each occasion.
Today, the historic site offers visitors a glimpse into Mongolia’s rich medieval history and the legacy of the Mongol Empire.