Arkhangai trek: from the Orkhon Valley to the eight lakes

This morning, we set off to begin our journey into the countryside. Along the way, we stop at the ruins of Khar Bukh, dating back to the 9th and 10th centuries, during the Khitan period. The site stretched over an area approximately 500 meters long. In the 17th century, a stone monastery was built there. Remarkably, the buildings were constructed from volcanic rock, millstone grit, and schist.

We then continue to Lake Ugii, a beautiful body of water renowned for its abundance of fish—14 species have been recorded there, including perch, pike, trout, and silver carp. The lake is also a stopover for many migratory birds, notably the wild goose and the Dalmatian pelican. Free time and swimming are possible for the more adventurous. Overnight stay in a yurt camp. Showers are available this evening.

A day's drive towards Tovkhon Monastery. A magnificent landscape, almost like an open-air safari, where sheep, goats, cows, yaks, and horses roam freely across the steppe. Along the way, we pass the ruins of an ancient city called Shiveet Ulaan, dating back to the Turkic period in the 7th-8th centuries. We arrive at our host family's home and discover nomadic life and culture. Dinner and overnight stay in a guest yurt.

In the morning, we can watch the yaks being milked with the family and even try it ourselves! Afterward, we are taken to the foot of the mountain and the Tovkhon Monastery. We hike up to the charming little Tovkhon Khiid monastery-hermitage, located on the summit of this sacred mountain. It was the place of meditation and retreat for Zanabazar, a famous 17th-century Mongolian lama who introduced Buddhism to Mongolia in 1648. He was also a great intellectual and sculptor of his time. The climb takes us to the summit and the temple, where we enjoy a splendid view of the surrounding area. In the afternoon, we may have the opportunity to cook some Mongolian dumplings and try on the traditional costume (deel) that the lady of the family makes herself. Overnight in a guest yurt.

After breakfast, we hike to the site of Uurtiin Tokhoi. It was here that the religious conflict between Zanabazar (of the Yellow Hat Buddhist sect) and Galdan Bushit (of the Red Hat sect) took place in the 17th century. We follow the valley of the White Orkhon River (Tsagaan Sum) before arriving near the small village of Bat-Ulziit. The Orkhon River is one of Mongolia's largest rivers, originating in the Khangai Mountains and flowing 1,124 km north to join the Selenge River just before the Russian border and then Lake Baikal. The valley is a true crossroads of civilizations, connecting East and West along the Silk Road. We arrive at the home of our second nomadic family, who welcome us for a pleasant stay. Dinner and overnight in a yurt.

We continue our journey through the famous Orkhon Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its rich cultural and historical heritage. The scenery gradually changes: mountains appear on the horizon, the steppe becomes covered with volcanic rocks, and larch trees become more prevalent. We arrive at the home of our nomadic family, who will host us this evening. There's an option to take a trip to the Ulaan Tsutgalan River Falls, where the water cascades down in a beautiful waterfall, well-known to both Mongolians and travelers. Dinner and overnight stay in a yurt. We'll have the opportunity to shower at a nearby yurt camp this evening.

On our journey today, we have the opportunity to admire the Orkhon River waterfall. Then, we head towards the Eight Lakes National Park. These lakes were all formed on ancient volcanoes, now covered in larch, pine, and cedar trees. The entire area is protected and inaccessible to vehicles; horseback riding or hiking are the only ways to explore this remote and wild place. Our local guide shows us around the Eight Lakes region, nestled in the heart of the Khangai Mountains. We spend the night with a new nomadic family in a yurt.

Today, we're enjoying a well-deserved day off, sharing nomadic life with our Mongolian guide's family. The plan includes a short hike in the morning to a viewpoint, and for those who wish, we can then help with daily activities such as making Mongolian cheese or yogurt, or playing with the children. We can also take a walk in the Khyatruun Valley, where we can spot wildlife including wild boars, wolves, and deer. We'll spend our second night in a guest yurt with the same family.

Briefing and bag preparation before departure for the 3-day, 2-night trek in the Eight Lakes Park.

In the morning, we travel along the edge of vast coniferous forests, accompanied by packhorses carrying all the supplies, and arrive at Lake Khuis, situated at an altitude of 2,200 meters. In the evening, we join our host family to spend the night in a yurt in this idyllic setting.

Today, we hike to the largest lake, Lake Shireet. We pass by Lakes Shanag, Bugat, and Khaliun. Lake Shireet is one of the most beautiful lakes in the region, covering approximately 10 square kilometers, 3.4 kilometers long, 1.2 kilometers wide, and 16 meters deep. It's a small blue treasure nestled amidst lush green landscapes. Only the sounds of nature accompany us here. We return to the same family's home on the shores of Lake Khuis for a second night there, marking the end of this semi-itinerant trek.

Departure for the airport and return flight to France for arrival the same day.