With no direct flights to Mongolia, one of the best and most exciting methods of entry is by the Trans-Siberian express from Beijing to Ulaanbaatar which at one point passes through the Great Wall of China. The first stop in Mongolia occurs in the early morning sunshine where men and women dressed in traditional 'deels' sit on the platform selling their wares. Ulaanbaatar, perhaps surprisingly, will provide an insight into the life and cultures of the unique nomadic people and has some very good sightseeing. Nearby Karakorum, heralded as the launch pad for Genghis Khan's fierce campaign, appears empty after being almost raised to the ground by Stalinist purges in the 1930's. Fortunately the wonderful outside wall remains and inside, the working monasteries are filled with exquisite treasures. The smell of juniper burning in the incense containers outside the temples combines atmospherically with the Tibetan chants of the Lamas as Buddhism returns to this once deeply religious land. Finally, explore part of the Gobi with its surprisingly varied landscapes, herds of Bactrian camels and warm hospitality of the nomadic people.

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Day 1 Depart London Heathrow
Day 2 Arrive Ulaanbaatar
Day 3 Ulaanbaatar/Khentii
Day 4 Khentii Mountains
Day 5 Khentii Mountains
Day 6 Khentii/Ulaanbaatar
Day 7 Fly Ulaanbaatar/Gobi Desert
Day 8 Visit Bayanzag
Day 9 Visit Yolyn Am
Day 10 Fly Gobi/Ulaanbaatar
Day 11 Ulaanbaatar
Day 13 Fly Ulaanbaatar/London Heathrow

Prices for a similar itinerary would start from approximately £2,600