Trip Type: Special Interest
Archaeological Treasures of Mongolia, Dinosaurs of the Gobi
Since our establishment in 1992, Nomadic Expeditions has been committed to offering semi-scientific expeditions for travelers from around the world. Led by renowned local as well as international experts, our archaeological, paleontological and birding trips depart every year, covering a variety of destinations and ecosystems across Mongolia. These trips have provided notable support for the development of scientific endeavors in Mongolia, such as the discovery of the museum-quality fossils of plant-eating protoceratops and meat-eating velociraptors, and of studies and publications of different species of birds. While the focus of these trips is scientific exploration, adventurers are offered a variety of opportunities to experience the unique pastoral nomadic life found only in Mongolia.
Across the vast grasslands stretching beneath Mongolia's endless blue sky, one can find fascinating cultural treasures of the ancient past - monuments bearing runic inscriptions, mysterious stone carvings, and ruins of the capital of a once-great empire. An excellent introduction to Mongolia's early history, this overland trip traverses diverse landscapes to discover the country's most intriguing archaeological sites.
Overview
Travelers will explore ancient burial mounds, the site of the ancient city of Kharakhorum, Turkic "stone men," and mysterious deer stones, erected thousands of years ago by Turkic-Mongol tribes and characterized by carvings of deer in a "flying gallop." This journey into Mongolia's past provides a unique perspective of the country's rich history and culture. In addition, there will be opportunities to appreciate Mongolia's unparalleled natural beauty, with visits to the sand dunes at the foot of the Hogno Han Mountains, the "Great White Lake" located in a magnificent national park, and two days on the shores of peaceful Lake Hovsgol.
Dear Alumni and Friends of Indiana University,
Please join me on a specially-designed trip to Mongolia, one of the world’s most fascinating places and one I have been studying for over 25 years. We will begin our journey in Ulaanbaatar, the capital of Mongolia, and will later travel to the Hogno Han mountains, Kharakhorum (site of the 13th century capital of the Mongol Empire) and experience the desolate beauty of the Gobi desert. Along the way, we will explore the history and culture of Mongolia with visits to museums, Buddhist monasteries, national parks, and local nomadic families. My own writings cover Mongolian history from the earliest khans to the present day and we have a well-rounded program to introduce Mongolia's extraordinary stories. Our accommodations will include both hotels and traditional round ger dwellings.
Group size is limited to 25 to give us an intimate social and educational setting and enjoy the camaraderie of small group travel. I am very much looking forward to sharing my knowledge and love of Mongolia with you.
Trip Leader Christopher P. Atwood
Professor, Mongolian Studies
Vice President, Mongolia Society