Tsagaan Sar is a family festival, which is celebrated on the first day of the Lunar new year to put some cheer in the endless winter months and mark the beginning of spring. This could be any date from late January to early March depending on the Lunar calendar. The celebration happens over several days, with feasting on the night of the new moon. Everyone dresses in their best clothes to visit family members. Throughout the ages the festival has been celebrated traditionally – family ties are renewed and in particular, it is a time to honor the elderly.
As a sign of respect, the younger adults greet their elders in a certain way, with a special arm-hold embrace, which symbolizes both support and esteem. The gesture is accompanied by the exchange of a ceremonial pale blue or white silk scarf. Gifts are usually given and received with both hands. Whole carcasses of a fat lamb are cooked in advance, and there is a lot of food including steamed dumplings, fermented milk, vodka, milk tea, salads, and sweets. Traditionally after long bouts of feasting, the Mongols settle down to hours of storytelling and wisdom sayings, and in this way, oral histories have been passed on from one generation to the next.
Ulaanbaatar, Sukhbaatar Square
3 Hours Before Flight Time
Arrive in Ulaanbaatar. Short city tour available depending on the flight schedule. Transfer to the hotel and relax. (L/D)
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Relax in the traditional ger camp. (B/L/D)
Relax in the traditional ger camp. (B/L/D)
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Drive to Khustai National Park to watch wild horses takhi, widely known as “Przewalski horse ”.
Przewalski horses are the only wild horse to survive in modern times. The species were returned to Mongolia from Zooparks of many Europian Countries and reserves within Hustai National Park is 100 km west of Ulaanbaatar. (B/L/D)
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Transfer to Terelj National Park. Lying in the valley of the Terelj River 80 km northeast of Ulaanbaatar, Terelj national park has long been a holiday resort for people from the capital and short-stay tourists. It is one of the most visited areas in Mongolia due to its magnificent scenery and its proximity to Ulaanbaatar. There are great opportunities for hiking rock climbing, riding, and visit the Chinggis Khaan Statue Complex. Stay in the Nomad family. (B/L/D)
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Drive back to Ulaanbaatar. Relaxing hours at the hotel. Option to go shopping for souvenirs and cashmere products. Farewell dinner together. (B/L/D)
Transfer to Chinggis Khaan International Airport or Train station and depart Mongolia. (B)
