Chingis Khan Statue and Terelj National Park: Day Tour with Horseback Ride and Ariyabal Hike
Spend a day from Ulaanbaatar visiting the towering Chinggis Khaan statue, meeting a nomadic family, riding toward Turtle Rock, and hiking to the Ariyabal meditation temple. This full-day tour mixes cultural insight with short horseback and hiking sections suitable for most travelers.
The Experience
Before You Go
Prepare for sun and wind
Inner Mongolia-steppe sun is strong; bring SPF 30+ sunscreen and a windproof jacket for exposed viewpoints.
Wear sturdy footwear
Trails to Ariyabal are rocky and uneven—supportive hiking shoes or ankle boots will make the climb far easier.
Carry cash for the nomad visit
Small souvenirs and tips are best paid in cash; ATMs are sparse outside Ulaanbaatar.
Take motion-sickness precautions
The drive from Ulaanbaatar is hilly and can be bumpy—bring remedies if you are prone to car sickness.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Small ger museum at the statue complex with traditional felt and yurt displays
- •Side trails and rock alcoves near Turtle Rock that are quieter in late afternoon
Wildlife
- •Marmot
- •Siberian roe deer
Conservation Note
Terelj sees growing visitation; stick to marked paths, avoid open-fire cooking away from designated areas, and minimize single-use plastics to reduce impact.
The Chinggis Khaan statue complex celebrates Mongolia’s 13th-century unifier and sits in a landscape shaped by nomadic traditions and Bronze Age archaeological sites.
What to Bring
Sturdy hiking shoesEssential
Provides traction on rocky trails and stable footing for mounting and dismounting horses.
Layered outerwearEssential
Temperatures can shift quickly between valleys and ridgelines; layers manage warmth and wind protection.
Reusable water bottle (1–1.5 L)Essential
Hydration is essential on a full-day outing where refill points are limited.
Daypack with rain coverEssential
Keeps snacks, camera, and extra layers dry and accessible during hikes and horse rides.
Common Questions
How long is the transfer from Ulaanbaatar?
Typical round-trip driving time is 1–1.5 hours each way depending on traffic and road conditions, making the tour a full-day excursion.
Is horseback riding suitable for beginners?
Yes—rides toward Turtle Rock are short (30–60 minutes) and designed for novices; guides provide simple instruction and lead the horses.
Are meals provided?
Yes—lunch is included, usually with traditional options like buuz, tsuivan, or khuushuur served at a nomadic family or local ger camp.
Can I go up to the statue deck?
Yes—the complex includes a lift to the statue’s viewing deck and a small museum; admission is typically included in the tour.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
7–10 hours
Location
Ulaanbaatar, Töv Province
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Suitable for travelers with basic fitness: able to walk 1–3 miles over uneven terrain and mount a horse for short rides.
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