MN
Terelj National Park
Granite rock formations, ger camps and horse riding in a national park just outside Ulaanbaatar
Granite rock formations, ger camps and horse riding in a national park just outside Ulaanbaatar
This 24m granite outcrop shaped like a turtle is the park’s best-known landmark.
Photo: CeeGee, CC BY-SA 4.0
A Buddhist meditation centre on a hillside, reached by a long staircase, with sweeping views over the valley.
Photo: Chongkian, CC BY-SA 4.0
Camps range from family-run gers to comfortable tourist camps with restaurants. Many offer horse riding, archery and visits to nomadic families.
Photo: Brücke-Osteuropa, Public domain
About 54km east of Ulaanbaatar, this 40m stainless-steel statue, unveiled in 2008, is the largest equestrian statue in the world. A lift and stairs lead to a viewing platform on the horse’s head.
Photo: Vaiz Ha, CC BY 2.0
Hiking and riding trails lead through meadows and forest along the rivers.
Photo: Pierre André Leclercq, CC0
Ger camps serve Mongolian dishes such as buuz (steamed dumplings), khuushuur (fried meat pastries) and khorkhog (meat cooked with hot stones). Try suutei tsai, salty milk tea.
Vegetarian options are limited; let your camp know in advance.
Terelj is about 55km from Ulaanbaatar, roughly one and a half to two hours by road depending on traffic. Tours and camp transfers are the easiest option; there is limited bus service.
Bring warm layers, as nights are cold even in summer.
Mongolia uses the tögrög (MNT).
Two days for the park and the statue.
Visit the Chinggis Khaan statue, then Turtle Rock and check in to a ger camp.
Ride horses through the valleys and climb to the Aryapala temple.
Nights are cold year-round.
Mongolian horses are semi-wild; follow your guide.
July festival season is busy.
Carry tögrög.
Quick answers for planning time in Terelj.
About 55km, one and a half to two hours by road.
Yes, many camps offer ger stays with meals.
40m, the largest equestrian statue in the world.
A 24m granite outcrop shaped like a turtle.
June to September.
Planning a wider trip? Our Mongolia travel guide covers getting there, costs, when to go and more.