Arvayheer

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Arvayheer's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Arrival and Exploration of Arvayheer Town
morning
:

Arrive in Arvayheer and settle into your accommodation. Take a leisurely walk through the town center to get a feel for the local life and architecture. Visit the local market to see traditional Mongolian crafts and produce.

afternoon
:

Enjoy a traditional Mongolian lunch at a local restaurant. Explore the regional museum to learn about the history and culture of Övörkhangai Province. Visit the central square and admire the statues and monuments.

evening
:

Dine at a cozy ger camp or local eatery to experience authentic Mongolian cuisine. Watch the sunset over the rolling hills surrounding Arvayheer. Relax by a campfire and enjoy traditional music or storytelling.

day 2
Ger Camp Experience and Nomadic Lifestyle
morning
:

Travel to a nearby ger camp to immerse yourself in the traditional nomadic lifestyle. Participate in setting up the ger and learn about its significance. Join the family in milking livestock such as goats or cows.

afternoon
:

Help prepare a traditional Mongolian meal using fresh dairy products. Take a horseback ride across the vast steppes, observing the stunning landscapes and local wildlife. Learn about Mongolian herding techniques from the nomads.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner around a warm fire inside the ger. Share stories and songs with the nomadic family under the clear starry sky. Experience the peacefulness and silence of the countryside at night.

day 3
Visit to Hustain Nuruu Nature Reserve
morning
:

Depart early to Hustain Nuruu National Park, home to wild takhi horses. Take a guided walking tour to spot local flora and fauna. Observe the wild horses from a safe distance in their natural habitat.

afternoon
:

Have a picnic lunch in the reserve while enjoying panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. Visit the interpretive center to learn about conservation efforts and the ecology of the area. Try birdwatching as the reserve is home to various species.

evening
:

Return to Arvayheer and unwind at your accommodation. Enjoy a simple dinner and reflect on the day’s natural encounters. Take a starlit walk around town to absorb the quiet evening ambiance.

day 4
Cultural Immersion and Local Craft Workshops
morning
:

Join a local artisan workshop to learn about traditional Mongolian crafts such as felt making or embroidery. Visit families who produce handmade goods and hear their stories. Try your hand at creating a small souvenir.

afternoon
:

Enjoy a homemade lunch with your hosts featuring local ingredients. Explore more arts and crafts shops around Arvayheer town to find unique items. Attend a demonstration on traditional Mongolian cooking techniques.

evening
:

Participate in a cultural evening with local music and dance performances. Sample various Mongolian teas and desserts. Engage with locals and share experiences of Mongolian daily life.

day 5
Horseback Riding Through the Steppe
morning
:

Set off early for a horseback riding excursion through the vast steppe plains. Learn basic riding skills and safety tips from a local guide. Enjoy the fresh air and expansive views as you traverse gentle slopes.

afternoon
:

Stop for a traditional nomadic lunch by a river or hillside. Continue your ride exploring different terrains and spotting wild plants and animals. Visit a small nomadic settlement and meet local families.

evening
:

Return to camp and enjoy a hearty dinner made from local produce. Share stories of your riding adventures while relaxing by the warmth of the fire. Prepare for an early night after a full day outdoors.

day 6
Exploration of Surrounding Villages
morning
:

Visit nearby rural villages to observe Mongolian countryside life. Walk through traditional yards and interact with the villagers. Learn about their daily routines and agricultural practices.

afternoon
:

Participate in communal activities such as cooking or animal care. Enjoy a home-cooked lunch featuring speciality dishes from the region. Explore the natural surroundings including small streams and grazing fields.

evening
:

Return to Arvayheer and dine at a local restaurant specializing in regional flavors. Attend a community event or gathering if available, such as a festival or market. Reflect on the hospitality and simple life experienced that day.

day 7
Visit to Local Educational Institutions
morning
:

Tour a local school to understand the education system in rural Mongolia. Meet teachers and students, and observe classes if permitted. Learn about the challenges and successes of education in the region.

afternoon
:

Lunch with teachers or school staff to discuss local culture and community issues. Visit a vocational training center or cultural center nearby. Participate in an interactive workshop or presentation if available.

evening
:

Return to your accommodation for dinner and rest. Review notes or photos from your educational visit. Plan for the following day’s activities with a fresh perspective on community life.

day 8
Day Trip to Karakorum and Erdene Zuu Monastery
morning
:

Depart early for a day trip to the ancient capital Karakorum, about 2 hours from Arvayheer. Explore the ruins and historical sites that mark the Mongol Empire’s origin. Visit a local museum for archaeological exhibits.

afternoon
:

Have lunch at a nearby ger camp offering traditional Mongolian cuisine. Continue to the Erdene Zuu Monastery, the oldest Buddhist monastery in Mongolia. Tour the complex to admire its architecture and religious artifacts.

evening
:

Travel back to Arvayheer and enjoy a relaxing dinner. Share experiences of the day’s historical insights. Take an evening stroll to absorb the quiet charm of the town once more.

day 9
Nature Walk and Picnic at the Onon River
morning
:

Head out for a gentle morning walk along the Onon River banks. Observe the diverse plant species and birdlife native to the area. Enjoy the peaceful flow of the river and the open landscape.

afternoon
:

Set up a picnic in a scenic spot near the river surrounded by wildflowers. Spend time relaxing, reading, or sketching the natural environment. Engage in light activities such as fishing or fruit picking if available.

evening
:

Return to your lodge or ger camp for dinner. Reflect on the day’s natural beauty and tranquility. Wind down with a quiet evening under the stars or around a small fire.

day 10
Departure and Farewell to Arvayheer
morning
:

Pack your belongings and prepare for departure. Enjoy a final breakfast with your hosts or at your accommodation. Take a last walk by the town’s streets or marketplace to collect souvenirs.

afternoon
:

Say goodbye to locals and family you have stayed with, exchanging contact information if desired. Transfer to the airport or next destination. Reflect on the diverse cultural and natural experiences of your journey.

evening
:

Travel day or evening arrival at your next stop or home. Rest and process your memories of Arvayheer and Mongolia. Plan your future trips inspired by this authentic adventure.

Discover Arvayheer

Read more in our Arvayheer 2025 Travel Guide.

Arvayheer Travel Guide