Tour Description

Within a mere 3-hour drive from the capital, lies the untamed wilderness of the Khenty range, marking the southern boundary of the vast Siberian forest ecosystem. This rugged landscape holds historical significance as the birthplace and early stomping grounds of Chinggis Khan, the legendary Mongolian leader who ascended to power over 800 years ago. Here, wooded mountains, fertile river valleys, and rolling hills create a breathtaking backdrop for exploration.

During this 6-day adventure, including 4 days of cycling, participants will traverse distinct car tracks boasting smooth, packed surfaces, perfectly suited for biking. Along the way, encounters with local herders, whose livelihoods depend on large flocks of domesticated animals, add a cultural dimension to the journey.

The cycling route spans a total distance of 194km, with a cumulative ascent of 2449 meters, reaching a maximum altitude of 1970m. Expert guidance and continuous vehicle support ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Participants can also relish in cycling-adapted meals and comfortable camping amenities, including drip showers and sit-down toilets.

TOUR HIGHLIGHT:

  • Chinggis Khan Equestrian Complex and "13th Century Theme Park": Explore the historical and cultural significance of Mongolia's most legendary figure, Chinggis Khan, at the equestrian complex dedicated to his legacy. Immerse yourself in the ambiance of the 13th century through interactive exhibits and recreated scenes, offering insight into Mongolia's rich history and nomadic traditions.
  • Biking Through Spectacular Siberian Wooded Mountains and Valleys: Embark on an exhilarating cycling adventure through the breathtaking landscapes of the Siberian wooded mountains. Traverse rocky terrains and lush valleys along the Tuul and Terelj rivers, surrounded by panoramic vistas that showcase the natural beauty of Mongolia's wilderness.
  • Encounter Nomadic Encampments and Large Herds of Domestic Animals: Experience the authentic lifestyle of Mongolia's nomadic herders as you journey through picturesque landscapes dotted with their traditional ger /yurt/. Witness the pastoral scenes of large herds of domestic animals grazing amidst the vast open spaces, offering a glimpse into the symbiotic relationship between nomads and their livestock.
  • Reasonable Daily Biking Distance with Varied Terrain: Enjoy a well-paced cycling itinerary with manageable daily distances that allow for exploration and appreciation of the surroundings. Encounter shallow to moderate inclines and declines along the route, offering a balanced mix of challenge and enjoyment for cyclists of varying skill levels.

 

Price includes

  • 2 hotel nights in Ulaanbaatar /twin+B/
  • 3 tented overnights
  • Sleeping bags and pads
  • All transfers including arrival & departure
  • Indicated meals (B-breakfast, L-lunch, D-dinner)
  • Visits & national park fees
  • Camping equipment
  • English speaking guide(s)
  • Cook(s)
  • A hard tail mountain bike
  • Tools & parts

 

Price excludes

  • Travel insurance
  • Meals not indicated
  • Personal cycling accessories and clothes
  • Drinks
  • Gratuities

Tour dates:

  • 15 May to 31 October,2024 OPEN
Day 1: Arrival to Ulaanbaatar, tour briefing

Arrival in Ulaanbaatar and transfer to 4* Bayangol hotel. Welcome dinner and trip orientation in the evening. (hotel / D).

Day 2: Cycle to Khan Khenty National Park

Morning 1 hour 30 minutes transfer east of Ulaanbaatar to a 40 meter silver statue of Chinggis Khan. Upon arrival while the bikes are being assembled you may visit the statue and climb up to an observation platform two thirds of its height and enjoy a panoramic view of the surrounding hilly steppes. We then start riding along the Tuul river which is one of the major Mongolian rivers eventually emptying in to lake Baikal in Russia. As the area marks the southern edge of the Siberian mountains we cycle across rolling hills and lush meadows with some wooded mountains as a backdrop.

Invariably we ride on smooth car tracks, at times slightly sandy and at times muddy depending on how much rain had fallen. As you bike you will catch a glimpse of a life that has seemingly not changed for a few hundred years. Large flocks of yaks, sheep and goats roam the area and circular tents of local herders can be seen from time to time. This morning as a warm up we have a few insignificant uphills and after lunch climb up to a wooded pass at 1887m. The effort is rewarded by spectacular views over wide valleys and forested mountains and a long descent on smooth soil to the Tuul river bank. Here we erect our tents and take a shower before dinner. (Distance 47km, total climb 737meters, tent / B,L,D).

Day 3: Cycle to Tsagaan Khutul pass

mountain biking MongoliaThe whole of the morning we ride upstream along the Tuul river on smooth but at times muddy tracks. We'll be doing some small stream crossings today so expect to get your feet wet. Around lunch time we reach the highest point of the day. Here the road is a bit rocky with small river rocks. After lunch we enjoy a long downhill followed by 20km easy roll across a wide valley that will bring us to our 2nd tented camp. Here we take a chance and visit a house/ger of a local herding family so that you learn about the lifestyle and traditions of Mongolian nomads. You can taste milky tea, sample dairy products and with some luck have a sip of fermented horse milk. Here we erect our tents and take a shower before dinner. (Distance 49km, total climb 632meters, tent / B,L,D).

Day 4: Cycle to XIII Century Mongolia theme park

We continue heading south across open steppe grassland and by 11am arrive to the "XIII century Mongolia" theme park. It consists of several ger encampments each showcasing an aspect of medieval life of Mongolia. "Horse relay station" is where you can get your photo taken in traditional clothes and armor, "Craftsmen camp" introduces you to traditional smith, wood and leather work, at the "Educational camp" visitor are introduced to traditional calligraphy and games. The last station is the "Khan's Palace" - a huge big ornate ger decorated with medieval costumes and warrior implements. Here you may try royal costumes on and test your archery skills etc. Each station is about 500m from each other so we take short rides to visit them. After completing the visits we climb to the top of a local highest mountain to a campsite that offers 360 degree panoramic view. The climb is a 9km gradual ascent on grassy tracks. Dinner and overnight. (Distance 63km, total climb 610meters, tent / B,L,D).

Day 5: Last cycling day and return to Ulaanbaatar

Last cycling day. We gradually curve our way back north today. Again we take easy ups and downs across grassland. We will serve a snack stop nearby some granite boulders as a backdrop before taking the highest climb of the tour at 1830meters above sea level. Weather permitting we have lunch at the top of the pass and enjoy great panoramic views of Mongolian steppe land. A 3km steep descent is ridden by rain water ditches so use your breaks!!! When at the bottom of the descent we roll for another 20km across grassland with no significant ascents. Here we load bikes and take a 2 hour return transfer back to Ulaanbaatar and to your hotel. In the evening we all gather for a farewell dinner. (Distance 35km, total climb 470meters, hotel / B,L,D).

Day 6: Departure transfer

Transfer to airport for your departure home.(B).

Lijoy Varghese

A memorable trip in a magical land First of all a big thank you to the Mongolia Expeditions crew for making my visit to Mongolia truly memorable. The Khenty mountain biking tour was a 3.5 day trip across the vast and awe-inspiring landscape of Mongolia in early September. The views, the herds of animals and the people who make a living off this land begin to make you realize what life should really be like. Throughout the trip, the support crew were wonderful and made the journey a really pleasant experience. A special mention was the food prepared; absolutely delicious! I really hope that I get to visit Mongolia once more!

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