Mongolia is vast–truly, it’s one of the largest countries in Asia, and in the world. So, if you’re going to visit, you’ll definitely want to get out of Ulaanbaatar to see the wide-open spaces. If you want to base yourself in the capital city of Ulaanbaatar, you can absolutely do that and still see the countryside. Just an hour and a half away from Ulaanbaatar, Nalaikh is the perfect day trip for anyone who wants to get out of the city and see more of Mongolia. Here’s how to spend a day trip from Mongolia’s capital to Nalaikh Province, Mongolia.
Ride a Camel
This is one of the best things I’ve ever done in all of my travels! I’ve ridden camels in the Middle East, but Mongolian camels are an entirely different species. They’re bactrian camels, which means they have two humps instead of one. They’re also softer and fluffier, because they have to live in much harsher winter conditions than Arabian camels. You can ride, pet, or lead a Mongolian camel in several places around the Nalaikh province, including at the Chinggis Khaan Statue, Turtle Rock, and anywhere else you see locals offering camel rides to tourists.
Read on: Our Favorite Mongolian Animals
Visit Turtle Rock
This 79-foot tall, granite rock formation, Melkhii Khad in Mongolian, looks very much like a turtle, giving it the nickname Turtle Rock. The famous site is located inside Gorkhi-Terelj National Park, about 34 miles northeast of Ulaanbaatar, and it’s a popular starting point for hiking, camel and horseback riding, local shopping, and more. Something else about Turtle Rock? There might be buried treasure here! Local lore says that Mongolian King Galdanboshigt hid his kingdom’s valuables in or under the rock while he was at war with the Chinese!
Read next: My Honest Review of Traveling with Vacations Mongolia
Hike Up to the Aryapala Meditation Center
Looking for a hike with unique Mongolian views? This uphill trail is on the steep side of things, but that’s how you get up high enough to see the sweeping Mongolian landscape. The Aryapala Meditation Center is a Buddhist temple, complete with brightly-colored woodwork and Tibetan-style architectural features. The trail there and back is lined with 144 Buddhist proverbs to help hikers stop and reflect on the way up. But don’t forget to look behind you.
Keep reading: The 7 Best Things to Do in Ulaanbaatar
Have Lunch in a Ger
On our way out of Gorkhi-Terelj National Park, our guides suggested we stop for lunch at a group of Ger, or yurts. They all seemed to be serving authentic Mongolian food, so we picked one and hoped for the best. The day was a bit chilly, so we decided to take advantage of the Mongolian soups and dumpling to warm us up from the inside out. I highly recommend getting lunch in a Ger, while you’re out in Nalaikh since it is one of the most authentic experiences!
(Coming soon) More here: The Best Food We Ate in Mongolia
Visit the Chinggis Khaan Statue and Museum
This is the main attraction! Chinggis Khaan (aka Genghis Khan) is the most famous Mongolian, of course, and his massive, 40-meter (130-foot) statue is the largest equestrian statue in the world. It’s made entirely of stainless steel, and this spot was chosen because this is the place where lore tells us he found his golden whip. Visitors can take the stairs or an elevator to the top of the horse’s head and take in panoramic views, as well as visit the museum in the basement. There are also shops inside where you can try on traditional Mongolian clothes and buy authentic Mongolian gifts and souvenirs from Nalaikh.
Read on: The Best Tips Before Your First Trip to Mongolia
Practice Your Archery
Archery: Just as cool as you think, not as hard as you imagine! Would you believe I’d never shot a bow and arrow before? This was such a cool experience to have, especially knowing this is how Mongolians used to hunt large game for food, furs, bone, and more. I definitely need to work on my skills, but it was fun to try it out! We did this in front of the Chinggis Khaan Statue, which made for an epic and dramatic backdrop for such a cool experience.
More here: Why Single Parents Should Travel with Their Kids
Hold a Golden Eagle
We started our day with camels and ended with eagles. Mongolians have used golden eagles to hunt small game for centuries. This is no longer practiced, but golden eagles are still raised by some Nomadic families. We got to hold one just outside the Chinggis Khaan statue, and it was another favorite for me! It was quite heavy, but not unmanageable. The wingspan is massive, and they are truly beautiful. Try to get your photos with the Mongolian flag in the background, and/or the Genghis Khaan statue, too!
(Coming soon) Read next: What It’s Like to Visit a Nomadic Family in Mongolia
Want more? Check out my dedicated Mongolia Page!
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