Karakorum - or Harhorin - was the ancient capital of the Mongol empire during the 13-14th centuries.  It was totally sacked by Chinese Ming dynasty warriors during the overthrow of Khubilai Khan, the Mongol emperor of China.  Little remains, but the site is situated in a very scenic area.  During the 16th century, the giant Erdenezuu monastery was built from the remains of Karakorum.  Erdenezuu was closed for many years, but after the democratic reforms in 1991, monks are again living there. 
  

Brief Outline Itinerary

We will journey by bus or jeep 400 km to the west of Ulaanbaator into Övörhangai province and visit Karakorum and Erdenezuu. We will overnight at a permanent ger camp 80 km from Karakorum at Högnö Khan Mountain.  It is a unique rock formation, situated on the arid steppe. Nearby is a small freshwater lake with ducks and herons, and in the mountain itself, the Erdene Khombo monastery is being restored.

Day 1:  To Högnö Khan Mountain
Depart in the morning by bus or car for the Högnö Khan Uul area.  We will travel on one of Mongolia's few tarmac roads.  There will be steppe landscape all the way, and upon reaching the Högnö Khan Mountain area, we will see Mongol Els sand dunes in the middle of the steppe. They are locally known as "Little Gobi" or “Elsen Tasarkhai”. Next to them there is a small lake where waders such as herons and ducks may be seen in the summer. Overnight in gers.  

Day 2:  Högnö Khan Mountain
The Högnö Khan Mountain is a giant rock formation in the middle of the steppe and in it is the small Erdene Khombo monastery, now being restored. It was destroyed during the purges of the 1930s. An interesting countryside area where many nomadic herdsmen live surrounds it.  We will explore the area today.  

Day 3:  Erdenezuu & Karakorum
Full day excursion to Harhorin. We will drive 80km, which is 2 hours, to Harhorin.  Erdenezuu Hiid today is a functioning monastery in constant renovation to its former splendor. In the past, 1000 monks used to inhabit Erdenezuu.  It had some 100 temples within its 400 by 400 meters long walls.  The monastery was sacked during the purges of 1937. Only the walls and 3 temples remain. Erdenezuu is still one of the most fascinating sites of Mongolia and usually we will be able to experience and see the prayers. Return to camp and overnight in gers.  

Day 4:  Return to Ulaanbaatar
Drive back to Ulaanbaatar. Picnic lunch en route.  Check into your hotel in Ulaanbaatar.  

Practicalities

Nomadic Journeys have introduced a concept of practical and desirable ways of travel in Mongolia, which is a synergy of western and Mongolian ideas brought about after many years experience.  We emphasize the quality of human contacts and encounters with local people.  

Transport:  This journey is supported by a private vehicle taking you mostly on tarmac all the way to Harhorin.  

Staff: A Mongolian English-speaking local guide will accompany you at all times. Plus one driver.  

Including: Local guide, all meals outside Ulaanbaatar, all overnights in ger camps in double occupancy. All transport and entrance fees. 

Excluding:  Imported drinks. Air or train tickets. Transfers and hotel overnights in Ulaanbaatar.

DATES ex Ulaanbaatar: Daily May 21st - Sep19th

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