Gorkhi-Terelj National Park
The stunning Gorkhi-Terelj National Park is a 2 hour drive east of Ulaanbataar, and its accessability provides for an interesting 1 or 2-day tour. The national park features beautiful scenery, amazing rock formations, the Aryabal Monastery, and many accommodation spots for tourism and summer homes. Only a small southern portion of the park is developed for tourists, with restaurants, souvenir shops, and tourist ger camps, many run by the Juulchin corporation, the former state tourism company. However, most of the park is undeveloped and difficult to access.

A first stop, however, is the amazing Chinggis Khan Equestrian statue, 40 metres tall and made of stainless steel, the tallest equestrian statue in the world. It is located near the Tuul River at Tsonjin Boldog, 54 km east of Ulaanbaatar, where, according to legend, he found a golden whip. The statue was erected and opened in 2008 to honour the 800th anniversary of the founding of the Mongol Empire. The statue is symbolically pointed east toward Chinggis Khan's birthplace.

After entering the national park, with a panoramic view of the Tuul river, a short drive brings you to the iconic Turtle Rock. The park has many granite rock formations for rock climbers, and also includes the Old Man Reading a Book (Praying Lama Rock).

By turtle rock are sites to experience Mongolian animal nature, including the chance to perch a golden eagle on your arm, ride horses or bactrian camels. The golden eagles, used for hunting, weigh 7-9 kg., and are majestic to be with up close...

As the tour progresses up the valley, usually after an authentic Mongolian lunch, the scenery opens up to rock formations perfect for the experienced rock climber, with gers sited on the valley floor offering overnight accommodation.

At the end of the valley, nestling under the rocky peaks, is the Aryabal Meditiation Monastery. Aryabal is a Buddhist God who listens to all the prayers of humankind and releases humankind from suffering. The tibetan-styled monastery was built in the shape of an elephant’s head. The number 108 is an auspicious number in Buddhism. The stairs leading to the temple consist of 108 steps and symbolize the elephant’s elongated trunk. Moreover, signs with 144 Buddhist teachings, written in English and Mongolian, line the sides of the path to the temple.

Naagii and her team are very experienced in off-road driving, have excellent, comfortable, safe vehicles for clients, and can arrange local accommodation with meals for an overnight stay.

Naagii will work with you to personalise your tour and help with you with every aspect of your enjoyable Terelj experience.