If you’re dreaming of Mongolia’s vast landscapes, ancient monasteries, and spiritual energy spots, this Gobi train tour offers a balanced mix of adventure and cultural insights. While we haven’t personally taken this exact journey, reviews and detailed itineraries reveal an experience packed with meaningful sights and authentic moments.
What we love most about this tour is the combination of scenic train travel, the chance to visit powerful spiritual sites, and the opportunity to enjoy local Mongolian cuisine in a compact, well-organized package. The train journey itself offers a chance to see more of Mongolia’s rugged scenery from a comfortable sleeper carriage. Plus, the visits to religious sites like Khamriin Khiid and Bayanzurkh Mountain promise a sense of tranquility and connection that can be hard to find elsewhere.
One potential consideration is the schedule timing—early mornings and late nights mean you’ll need to be prepared for some long travel hours and minimal downtime. However, this is typical for adventure-packed trips through remote Mongolia.
This tour is ideal for culture seekers, adventure lovers, and those interested in spiritual power spots. It suits travelers who enjoy a mix of train rides, scenic views, and visits to historical monuments, especially if they appreciate guided insights and local cuisine.
- Good To Know
- An In-Depth Look at the Gobi Train Tour
- Getting there: Scenic Train Journey
- Early Morning in Sainshand
- Visiting Khamriin Khiid: The World Energy Center
- Cultural and Natural Discoveries
- Sacred Sites and Stupas
- Return and Reflection
- Pricing and Value
- Who Will Love This Tour?
- Practical Tips for the Trip
- Logistics: Booking and Meeting
- Additional Information
- The Sum Up
- FAQ
- More Tour Reviews in Ulaanbaatar
- Looking for something different? Other Ulaanbaatar activities we've written about
Good To Know

- Authentic Mongolian experience combining train travel and cultural visits.
- Visiting sacred sites like Khamriin Khiid and Bayanzurkh Mountain offers a spiritual connection.
- All-inclusive price covers transport, guides, entrance fees, meals, and train tickets, providing good value.
- Long travel hours require planning, but the scenery and sites make it worthwhile.
- Knowledgeable guides and smooth transportation ensure comfort and educational value.
- Authentic local cuisine and cultural insights enhance the overall experience.
An In-Depth Look at the Gobi Train Tour

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Getting there: Scenic Train Journey
The adventure kicks off in the evening with a sleeping train journey from Ulaanbaatar to Sainshand. Departing at 20:50, the transmongolian-style train provides a cozy way to start the trip. With reviews highlighting the train’s comfort—even first-timers on sleeper trains will find this experience surprisingly pleasant—this mode of transport offers a unique glimpse into Mongolia’s vastness.
Travelers report that changing stations or pick-up points is handled smoothly, with guides coordinating pickup after arrival. The train is an efficient way to cover the distance while enjoying a bit of the adventure feel—many say it’s a memorable part of the trip, especially when watching the landscape change from urban to desert-like.
Early Morning in Sainshand
Arriving at 07:00 in the morning, the group is greeted by a driver who takes you straight into the heart of the region. Expect to start your day with a quick breakfast in the main square, where you’ll get a taste of local life and a chance to observe the city’s vibe. Sainshand itself is a gateway to some remarkable sites, and the early start means you’ll get a full day of exploration.
Visiting Khamriin Khiid: The World Energy Center
Your first major stop is Khamriin Khiid, a monastery famed as a “world energy zone”—a spot many believe to hold spiritual and energetic power. Visitors mention that the site’s atmosphere is more than just historic; it’s a place where many feel a tangible sense of energy and connection. People believe this spot can “cover the body energy,” adding a mystical touch to the visit.
The monastery’s significance is heightened by the presence of Javzandamba Khudagt and Danzanravjaa, two legendary figures in Mongolian spiritual and cultural history. The monastery was a key center for the Red Sect of Buddhism, giving it historical gravitas. You’ll also visit the Danzanravjaa Museum, where the life and contributions of this remarkable teacher are beautifully showcased.
More Great Tours NearbyCultural and Natural Discoveries
After soaking in spiritual energy, your guide will take you to Bayanzurkh Mountain, a sacred mountain offering panoramic views and a sense of peace amid Mongolia’s rugged terrain. Many reviews note the stunning vistas and the sense of serenity you’ll find here—perfect for those looking to connect with nature and spirituality.
Then, the group heads to a local Mongolian lunch—a chance to sample traditional dishes. Travelers often describe the food as delicious, with some noting bowls served at local gers as memorable highlights.
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Sacred Sites and Stupas
The tour continues with visits to Shambala Stupa and Bayanzurkh Sacred Mountain, both sites rich in spiritual symbolism. Many visitors appreciate these stops for their peaceful ambiance and the chance to learn about Mongolian religious practices firsthand. The Shambala Stupa offers a space for reflection and awe, while the sacred mountain provides sweeping views and a sense of connection to the land.
Return and Reflection
As the day winds down, the group drops by the train station for a dinner at the station, then boards the train back to Ulaanbaatar at 20:50. The return trip offers another opportunity to rest and enjoy the Mongolian night sky, often described as star-studded and expansive.
Pricing and Value
At $270 per person, the tour offers all-inclusive value—covering transportation, guides, entrance fees, meals, and train tickets. Many reviews emphasize good value, especially considering the range of sites visited and the comfort of the arrangements. For those seeking to explore Mongolia beyond the capital, this is a cost-effective way to see the highlights with expert guidance.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This experience is perfect for travelers who enjoy cultural exploration, spiritual sites, and scenic train journeys. It suits those who appreciate guided tours with educational insights, as well as travelers comfortable with early mornings and long travel days. If you’re after a deep dive into Mongolia’s sacred and natural landscapes while traveling comfortably, this tour hits the mark.
Practical Tips for the Trip

- Bring a change of clothes—it can get windy or dusty, especially at higher elevations.
- A camera is essential—spectacular vistas and spiritual sites make for excellent photos.
- Cash is recommended for small expenses or tips, as local vendors or sites might not accept cards.
- Ensure your Smartphone is charged—there will be plenty of photo opportunities and useful app information.
- Be aware that alcohol and drugs are not permitted, and alcohol consumption is discouraged at sacred sites for respect reasons.
Logistics: Booking and Meeting
Travelers should send their pick-up address, hotel name, or location in advance so a driver can meet you. The tour also requires passport details for ticketing, so have that ready. The activity concludes back at the starting point, making it easy to plan onward travel.
Additional Information
- The tour is available in English, and you can reserve & pay later—ideal for flexible planning.
- Not suitable for babies under 1 year or those over 95 due to the physical demands and travel schedule.
- Cancellations are flexible, with refunds available if canceled 24 hours in advance.
The Sum Up

This Gobi train tour offers an engaging blend of scenic train travel, spiritual exploration, and culture. It’s a fantastic choice for those wanting a structured yet authentic experience of Mongolia’s unique landscape and spiritual sites without the hassle of planning every detail. The inclusion of guided insights, local cuisine, and comfortable transport makes it a strong value for budget-conscious travelers seeking depth and comfort.
If you’re curious about Mongolia’s sacred mountains, monasteries, and the expansive Gobi desert, this tour offers a balanced, well-organized way to experience it all. Long travel hours are offset by the rich sights, meaningful visits, and the chance to connect with Mongolia’s spiritual heartbeat.
For those eager to see Mongolia beyond the capital, enjoy scenic train rides, and dive into local religious traditions, this tour is worth considering. It’s particularly suited for curious, culturally-minded travelers who appreciate a mix of adventure, history, and peaceful reflection.
FAQ

How does the train journey work?
The train departs Ulaanbaatar at 20:50 and arrives in Sainshand around 07:00. It’s a sleeper train, so you’ll have a bed to rest in during the overnight trip, making the journey both comfortable and scenic.
What is included in the price?
The tour fee covers transportation, an English-speaking guide, entrance fees to sites, meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner), drinking water, and two-way train tickets.
Are there any additional costs?
Yes, personal expenses like insurance, alcohol, and snacks outside the provided meals are not included. Carrying cash is advisable for small souvenirs or tips.
What should I bring on the trip?
Bring clothes suitable for changing weather, a camera for capturing sites, cash for extras, and a charged smartphone for photos and communication.
Is the tour suitable for children?
It’s not suitable for babies under 1 year or people over 95 due to the physical demands and schedule length.
How do I book and coordinate pickup?
Send your pick-up address and passport details in advance. Guides coordinate with your hotel or location to meet you at the designated point.
What is the best time of year for this tour?
While the tour details don’t specify seasons, travelers might find the experience most comfortable in milder weather—avoiding extreme cold or heat.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are possible up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans shift.
What makes this tour stand out?
The combination of train travel, visiting spiritual sites like Khamriin Khiid, and enjoying local Mongolian cuisine makes it a memorable and meaningful journey into Mongolia’s soul.
This tour offers a thoughtfully curated taste of Mongolia’s spiritual and natural beauty, perfectly suited for travelers who crave authenticity, comfort, and adventure—all wrapped into one compelling package.
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