Mongolian Exploration: Genghis Khan Statue and Terelj National Park.
A day trip around Ulaanbaatar, the Genghis Khan Statue and Terelj National Park are undoubtedly two must-visit places.
The Genghis Khan Statue, this majestic sculpture is only 55 kilometers from Ulaanbaatar, about 1.5 hours by car. The ticket is 20,000 Mongolian Tugrik (about CNY 42). You can overlook the vast grassland from the viewing platform on the top of the horse's head. The first floor also provides Mongolian traditional clothing rental service, 15,000 Mongolian Tugrik per person (about CNY 32). There are two options, remember to compare prices, the first one seems to be more affordable. The basement is a museum, where you can learn more about Mongolian history and culture.
Next is Terelj National Park, about 1 hour from the statue. On the way, you will pass a natural boulder that looks like a big turtle, which is a great place to take photos. There is also a chance to take a photo with an eagle, 20,000 Mongolian Tugrik per person, but the eagle is not light, if you have weak arms, you may not be able to hold it. 100 meters to the right of the turtle rock, you can experience horse riding and camel riding. The horse riding fee is 30,000 Mongolian Tugrik per person, but you can bargain to 25,000 Mongolian Tugrik. The groom needs to be paid separately. They will take you through the woods and mud, and enjoy a horse riding tour for about 1 hour. This experience is definitely worth recommending!
Continue into the forest, you will be shocked by the beautiful scenery. After arriving at the foot of the Princess Temple, you need to climb the mountain, about 50 minutes round trip. Here, you can overlook the turtle stone and the entire park. The scenery is even more beautiful when the weather is clear.
About the chartered car service, the cost of 8 people taking a 12-seater car is about CNY 1,050 (including the car, driver and fuel). The car needs to pay a ticket fee of 30,000 Mongolian Tugrik to enter the park, and the driver's lunch needs to be paid extra. The average cost is about CNY 144, excluding the Genghis Khan statue ticket and other self-funded items.
In terms of horse riding fees, after bargaining, it is 25,000 Mongolian Tugrik per person (about CNY 53), plus the fees of two grooms, the average is about 33,000 Mongolian Tugrik (about CNY 69).
The return time is scheduled around six o'clock, and you can reach the city around eight o'clock.