Terelj National Park Day Tour from Ulaanbaatar — Turtle Rock, Aryabal Temple & Genghis Khan Statue
Spend a day outside Ulaanbaatar exploring Turtle Rock, the Aryabal meditation temple and the Genghis Khan statue complex. This accessible day tour pairs short hikes, a possible horse ride and cultural encounters with nomad families.
The Experience
Before You Go
Start early for light and parking
Leave Ulaanbaatar by mid‑morning to beat afternoon crowds at Turtle Rock and secure close parking at popular viewpoints.
Wear grippy shoes
Trails include exposed bedrock and loose scree near viewpoints—sturdy hiking shoes will reduce slip risk.
Carry cash and small bills
Local vendors and nomad families usually accept cash only for souvenirs or tea; ATMs are scarce outside the city.
Respect nomad household etiquette
Ask before photographing and accept invitations to enter a ger only when offered; follow your guide’s lead.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Low‑footfall side trail along the river west of Turtle Rock for quieter views
- •Small private museum rooms at the Genghis Khan complex with local archaeological finds
Wildlife
- •Marmot
- •Golden eagle
Conservation Note
Gorkhi‑Terelj faces grazing and tourism pressure; visitors are asked to stick to trails, pack out waste and avoid feeding wildlife to protect fragile alpine meadows.
Aryabal temple dates to the early 19th century and reflects Mongolian‑Tibetan Buddhist influences; the Genghis Khan statue (modern) anchors national memory and offers panoramic steppe views.
What to Bring
Sturdy hiking shoesEssential
Provide traction on bedrock, scree and dirt trails around Turtle Rock and temple approaches.
Layered outerwearEssential
Mornings can be cool and afternoons warm—windproof layer recommended for exposed ridges.
Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, SPF)Essential
High‑steppe sun and reflective surfaces increase UV exposure, especially on clear days.
Reusable water bottle (1–2 L)Essential
Limited refill options in the park—staying hydrated is important during walks and horse rides.
Common Questions
How long is the tour and what time should I expect pickup?
The tour runs about 10–12 hours; pickups are typically from hotels or the train station in the morning—confirm your exact pickup time at booking.
Is the horse ride suitable for beginners?
Yes—hour‑long horse rides provided are beginner friendly and guided, but participants should wear closed shoes and advise the operator of any mobility concerns.
Are meals included?
Lunch is included as part of the tour; bring snacks if you have specific dietary needs and inform the operator ahead of time.
What about toilets and mobile signal?
Basic facilities exist near main attractions but are limited on trail; mobile signal is intermittent outside the immediate visitor centers.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
10–12 hours
Location
Terelj, Töv
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for travelers with basic fitness—short climbs and standing doses of walking with occasional uneven terrain.
Ready to Explore Terelj?
Book your guided walking tour and discover the hidden stories of this historic mountain city.
Check Availability & Book Now