Celebrate Mongolia’s New Year
the Nomadic Way
This itinerary is available throughout February. Travel dates are flexible; however, to fully experience Tsagaan Sar, guests should be in Mongolia during the main holiday dates of February 17–19. Outside of these dates, the journey can be arranged at your leisure.
Hot & Cold Winter Escape
Itinerary at a glance
Ulaanbaatar, the Capital City | 1 night
ARKHANGAI — Natural hot springs and immersive nomadic life, including herding, dairy making, and participation in Tsagaan Sar nomadic holiday preparations and celebrations (main days February 17–18). Share traditional Mongolian cuisine with local families, enjoy a shamanic encounter, and unwind in mineral-rich hot springs. | 4 nights
UVURKHANGAI — Visit the Karakhorum Museum and Erdene Zuu Monastery, exploring the historic heart of the Mongol Empire. | 1 night
MONGOL NOMADIC ART CAMP — Hands-on traditional arts and crafts, camel and horse riding, Mongolian movement practices, and demonstrations of winter nomadic activities. | A day
ULAANBAATAR CITY TOUR — Chinggis Khaan Museum, Chinggis Square, and panoramic views from Monumental Hill. | 1 night
TERELJ NATIONAL PARK — Turtle Rock, scenic hiking, dog sledding experiences, and immersion in the Chinggis-21 winter settlement camp. | 2 nights
Departure day from Ulaanbaatar city | 1 night
Trip Details
Day 1
Ulaanbaatar
Arrive in Ulaanbaatar, the capital city of Mongolia.
After settling in, enjoy a gentle introductory city tour, exploring how Mongolia’s nomadic heritage, socialist past, and democratic present have shaped the city over the last 100 years. This short orientation offers cultural context before heading into the countryside.
In the evening, enjoy an early welcome dinner, then rest well in preparation for the early departure the next morning.
Day 2–5
Drive to Arkhangai, Hot Spring
Depart early for Arkhangai Province, the heartland of western Mongolian nomads. A long but smooth drive, mostly on paved roads, takes you through open steppe and mountain landscapes to Tsenkher Hot Springs.
About Tsenkher Hot Springs
Located about 30 km south of Tsetserleg city, at an elevation of 1,860 meters above sea level, Tsenkher Hot Springs emerge from deep underground at temperatures of up to 86°C, without mixing with surface water. The mineral-rich alkaline spring contains hydrogen sulfide and silica and has been used for therapeutic purposes since ancient times.
Traditionally valued for easing muscle tension, joint pain, fatigue, and nervous system strain, the hot springs are also believed to support circulation, digestion, recovery from exhaustion, and overall wellbeing. Bathing is done in controlled durations, allowing the body to gently absorb the healing properties of the water.
Arkhangai from UB: ~525 km | approx. 6–7 hours
Journey Into Mongolia’s Timeless Wisdom
Wake up in the fresh mountain air of Arkhangai Province, home to winter nomadic families.
After breakfast, visit local nomads to experience daily winter life, including herding, dairy making, and traditional household activities.
Take part in Tsagaan Sar holiday preparations, such as food preparation, milk rituals, and learning about customs associated with Mongolia’s Lunar New Year.
In the evening, return to the hot springs to relax and reflect.
Wake up in the fresh mountain air of Arkhangai Province, home to winter nomadic families.
After breakfast, visit local nomads to experience daily winter life, including herding, dairy making, and traditional household activities.
Take part in Tsagaan Sar holiday preparations, such as food preparation, milk rituals, and learning about customs associated with Mongolia’s Lunar New Year.
In the evening, return to the hot springs to relax and reflect.
Philosophy of the World’s Last Living Nomads
Day 2-5
Arkhangai | Tsagaan Sar (First Day of the Lunar New Year)
On the first day of Tsagaan Sar, rise early to join nomadic families in welcoming the Year of the Horse.
Visit relatives and neighboring households to greet elders and family members, following traditional New Year customs. Exchange snuff bottles, share milk tea, and enjoy freshly prepared steamed dumplings (buuz) — symbolic foods of prosperity and renewal.
Experience firsthand how nomadic Mongolians welcome the New Year through respect, ritual, and hospitality, gaining deep insight into one of Mongolia’s most important cultural celebrations.
In the evening, return to the camp for rest and relaxation in the natural hot springs.
Day 2-5
Arkhangai | Spiritual Traditions & Nomadic Life
Continue immersive nomadic experiences, spending time with local families to learn about winter livelihoods, storytelling, and cultural values passed down through generations.
In the afternoon, take part in a shamanic encounter, offering insight into Mongolia’s ancient spiritual traditions and the deep connection between nature, ancestors, and nomadic worldview.
End the day with a peaceful soak in the mineral-rich hot springs, allowing time for reflection and rest.
Day 6
Arkhangai to Uvurkhangai | Karakhorum & Erdene Zuu
Depart Arkhangai and drive to Uvurkhangai Province, the historic center of the Mongol Empire.
Visit the Karakhorum Museum, followed by Erdene Zuu Monastery, Mongolia’s oldest Buddhist monastery, surrounded by ancient stupas and history.
Day 7:
Mongol Nomadic Art Camp | Winter Nomadic Lifestyle
Spend the day at a Mongol Nomadic Art Camp, where traditional culture, creativity, and winter nomadic life come together in one place.
Engage in hands-on traditional arts and crafts, enjoy camel riding and horseback riding, and learn Mongolian movement practices through guided demonstrations.
Experience the warmth of traditional winter gers, observe daily winter nomadic activities, and gain deeper insight into authentic Mongolian culture and steppe living.
Day 8-9
Terelj National Park | Nature & Winter Activities
February in Terelj offers crisp, clear winter days that are not overly cold, making it a comfortable time to enjoy outdoor experiences. After a relaxed morning, enjoy dog sledding on the frozen river, a memorable winter activity that lets you glide across the icy landscape surrounded by snow-covered valleys and granite formations.
After the activity, return to the Terelj camp for lunch and time to rest, reflect, or enjoy the peaceful natural surroundings before the journey onward.
Day 10-11
On your final day, we will transfer you to Chinggis Khaan International Airport for your departure. As you leave, take with you the unforgettable memories of Mongolia’s rich culture, breathtaking nature, and warm hospitality.
This itinerary is available throughout February. Travel dates are flexible; however, to fully experience Tsagaan Sar, guests should be in Mongolia during the main holiday dates of February 17–19. Outside of these dates, the journey can be arranged at your leisure.
Meet locals, engage in nomadic traditions, savor local crafts, and enjoy evenings filled with traditional music and authentic flavors.
Duration: 10-11 days
Meals: All meals Included
Price: To be confirmed, contact us through registration form below
Transport: Paved road / off-road travel
Accomodation:
- Ulaanbaatar Local Hotel 1 night
- Duut hot-spring resort, central part, – 4 nights
- Kharkhorum Hotel, central part -1 night
- Ulaanbaatar Local Hotel – 1 night
- Terelj National Park ger camp – 2 nights
- Ulaanbaatar Local Hotel – 1 night
International flight: Not included
Insurance: Not included, but required
Photo and video fees: not included, apply at select locations