Övörkhangay is where many travellers feel they have reached "real" Mongolia. Kharkhorin, the modern town near ancient Karakorum, has guesthouses, shops and the Erdene Zuu monastery with its whitewashed walls and stupas. The Orkhon Valley UNESCO area upstream holds herder camps, volcanic cliffs and Ulaan Tsutgalan waterfall, a usual lunch stop on riding routes.
The Orkhon River can run high in late spring, which sometimes shifts camp locations. Waterproof bags help for river crossings on foot. Kharkhorin has ATMs in season, but carry cash for small purchases and tips to herders who host riders overnight.
Stupas at Erdene Zuu catch morning light, and the small museum in Kharkhorin explains how Karakorum sat at the centre of the Mongol Empire. Riding days follow the river upstream past volcanic cliffs where horses pick their way along sandy banks.
Monastery town and valley rides
Multi-day horse treks along the Orkhon, short hikes to the waterfall, and cultural visits in Kharkhorin. Övörkhangay is the anchor of central Mongolia.
Booking on adventuro
Use the Book here tab for loops that start from UB or meet you in Kharkhorin.
