Naadam Festival – Trans Mongolian Express

Duration13days

Price fromUSD $18,095 ?Currency ConversionConverted from USD based on the latest exchange rate. Final amount and payment will be in USD. Final conversion rate is determined by your bank.

Trip StyleLuxury Rail journey

Time of yearJuly

Embark on an iconic journey across Russia on board the luxury train combined with a visit to the Mongolian national festival.

One of the most celebrated events on the Mongolian calendar, Naadam Festival is the Mongol version of the Olympic Games and a source of deep national pride. Railway cruising on the Trans-Siberian Railway from Mongolia to Russia (or vice versa) is a fantastic way to absorb the rich culture of the Naadam Festival and the cinematic landscape of both countries. Our exclusive Trans-Mongolian Express tour through Russia and Central Asia combines first-class customer service and a romantic room with a constantly changing view from the Mongolian steppes to the Siberian taiga. On a private trip travelling aboard the luxurious Golden Eagle train, we’ll make numerous stops along the route, providing a memorable exploration of the cultures, customs and cuisine of each unique region we visit.

Trans-Mongolian Express and Nadaam Festival tour highlights:

  • Nadaam Festival: For three days, Mongolians don traditional dress and celebrate games and sports derived from Mongolia’s proud warrior tradition. Witness the primal thrill of outdoor wrestling, impossible archery contests and horse racing across the vast Mongolian grasslands
  • The Siberian city of Ulan-Ude lies at the crossroads of East and West, harbouring a unique Buryat Buddhist culture. It’s also a stronghold of the last of the Russian Old Believers, who we’ll meet on a village visit to discover the unique history and traditions of these proud, welcoming and deeply religious people
  • Marvel at the shimmering beauty of Lake Baikal, the world’s oldest and deepest lake, with a visit to Listvyanka village. Explore the Lake Baikal Museum and Aquarium and meet the beloved freshwater Baikal seal before a delicious meal of barbecued Baikal fish on the lake shores.
  • Kazan is the epicentre of ethnic Tartar culture. Discover the city’s mediaeval Islamic influence, tour the grounds of the picture-perfect Kazan Kremlin and enjoy a private concert of the music of Feodor Chaliapin, Kazan’s most famous opera singer
  • Moscow City Tour: Immerse yourself in the atmosphere of one of the world’s biggest metropolises on a guided tour of Moscow, taking in the Red Square, the Kremlin, the fantastical St Basil’s Cathedral and more

To truly experience the rich and colourful traditions and ancient heritage of Mongolia, travel the Trans-Mongolian railway in July and experience the incomparable Naadam Festival.

The origins of Naadam (literally meaning ‘three manly games’) can be traced back to the Mongolian’s abundant military history and their worldwide renown for brilliant conquests, great emperors and fierce warriors. Naadam Festival as we know it today has grown into an elaborate spectacle, drawing thousands of outside visitors every year. The main events are held in venues around Ulaan Baatar and it’s here that you’ll spend two days, kicking things off with the extravagant opening ceremony as well as travelling out of town to witness the main event – the heart-stopping national horse race.

You can either commence this tour in Ulaan Bataar the day before the Naadam opening ceremony or take the westbound route from Moscow and arrive in Mongolia in time for the festivities. You’ll experience everything in between these two sprawling metropolises, traversing some of the most remote reaches of the European and Asian continents. From the majestic Mongolian steppes to the awe-inspiring vastness of the Gobi Desert to the sparkling lakes of forests of Khovsgol, the ever-changing landscapes on this overland adventure are a feast for the senses. We’ll make numerous stops across the span of this 13-day Trans-Mongolian tour, exploring Irkutsk and the charming holiday village of Listvyanka on Lake Baikal, crossing the vast taiga and discovering the modern face of Siberia in Novosibirsk city.

This is without doubt one of the world’s greatest railway journeys, made all the more special by the experience of travelling in a private tour group aboard the Golden Eagle. After a few days, the train becomes a community of its own as you get to know your conductor, staff and fellow passengers. Relax and socialise in the plush Lounge Car, enjoy sumptuous meals on board and retreat at day’s end to your comfortable private cabin or Imperial Suite.

Arrival

Ulaan Bataar / Moscow

Departure

Moscow / Ulaan Bataar

Accomodation

5* Golden Eagle train

Trip style

Luxury Rail journey

Duration

13 days / 12 nights

Action rating?

     

Group size

N/A

Type of tour

Guaranteed departures

Itinerary View map

Day 1 Welcome to Mongolia

Our westbound Trans-Mongolian adventure begins in Mongolia. Upon arrival at Ulaan Baatar Airport, you will be met and transferred to your centrally located hotel. We will enjoy a welcome reception dinner at our hotel, whilst you meet your fellow travellers.

Days 2-3 Naadam Festival

On the first day of the festival, we observe the elaborate opening ceremony which consists of local dancers, athletes, horse riders and musicians, before travelling outside Ulaan Baatar to watch the national horse race. On the second day of the festival, we will attend the archery, wrestling and ankle-bone shooting events.

Day 4 Ulaan Bataar

This morning we start our tour of Ulaan Baatar at Gandan Monastery. We also visit the Chinggis Square with the monument to Genghis Khan. As an option, we drive out of the city to the Gorkhi-Terelj National Park and enjoy the beautiful scenery of wild Mongolia, having the opportunity to visit a traditional Ger and meet a nomadic family or try our hand at horse-riding, an intrinsic part of Mongolian life.

Day 5 Russia. Ulan Ude

The ethnic and cultural diversity of Ulan Ude, the capital of the Buryat Republic, offers a unique insight into its heritage. During our exploration of the Old Believers’ Village we have the opportunity to learn about the culture and history of these religious people as we are treated to a concert featuring local traditions and folk singing.

Day 6 Lake Baikal

For five hours we wind our way through tunnels along cliff-hugging tracks above Lake Baikal. Travelling onwards to the end of the Baikal branch line, we leave the train and travel by boat on the lake to Listvyanka, a small Baikal settlement nestling at the base of the surrounding hills. We visit the Lake Baikal Museum and Aquarium where you can learn about the flora and fauna of the lake. We then enjoy a delicious barbecue, including freshly smoked omul fish, prepared by our own chefs on the shore of Lake Baikal to complete a memorable day.

Day 7 Irkutsk

Our visit to Irkutsk, the ‘Paris of Siberia’, takes in the most significant sites and museums in this fascinating city, including an exploration of the classic wooden architecture. You could learn to cook some traditional Russian dishes with a local chef or you might also wish to visit a traditional Russian Dacha (summer house) or an urban apartment to get an insight into the everyday life of an average Russian family.

Day 8 Onboard

A day to unwind and reflect on the many sights and sounds we have experienced on our journey so far. Chat to your fellow passengers, perhaps learn a few more words of Russian or simply enjoy the ever changing landscape outside your window.

Day 9 Novosibirsk

Our Novosibirsk city tour takes us to Lenin Square where the imposing Opera House is located. In front of the Opera House, we visit an impressive statue of Lenin – a marvellous opportunity to have your photograph taken with this iconic political leader. Alternatively, south of the city you could visit Novosibirsk’s excellent Railway Museum or choose to visit the State Art Museum.

Day 10 Yekaterinburg

Our Yekaterinburg city tour takes us to the poignant site where the Romanov, Tsar Nicholas II of Russia, was executed with his family by the Bolsheviks in 1918 following 78 days of imprisonment. Our tour program features a visit to the recently opened Museum of Military Machinery - a real treat for anyone with an interest in the Soviet past, unparalleled by anything else along the route.

Day 11 Kazan

In Kazan, the capital of Tatarstan, we have the opportunity to see for ourselves its rich tapestry of history and culture. One of the highlights of this city tour is our exploration of the Kremlin Fortress, picture-perfect onion-domed cathedral. As Kazan is the birthplace of one of Here we will enjoy a private concert of Feodor Chaliapinis' music. You will also have time to wander through the main pedestrian area of Kazan and immerse yourself in the atmosphere of the city.

Day 12 Moscow

After travelling nearly 4,000 miles (6,400kms) along this iconic railway, today we reach Moscow, our final destination. Our city tour takes us to the grandeur of the Kremlin and to see the treasures of the Tsars in the Armoury Chamber. We also visit Red Square, the St Basil’s Cathedral’s magnificent onion-domed spires, the GUM department store, constructed in Tsarist times, and the sombre and evocative site of Lenin’s tomb.

Day 13 Time to say goodbye

Following breakfast, you will be transferred to the Moscow Airport to begin your journey home. You can extend your stay in Moscow with additional nights to explore more of the city at your leisure.

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Inclusions

5* hotels

Comfortable Golden Eagle train accommodation

Full board, starting with dinner on the first day and ending with breakfast on the last day

Arrival and departure transfers, all transportation according to the itinerary with professional drivers

Our experienced tour managers and their assistants are selected for their travel knowledge and their linguistic and organisational abilities allowing you to relax and enjoy your rail cruise

Guided enriching tours with experienced English speaking guides

Wide choice of optional off-train tours

All gratuities

Russian visa support documents

Exclusions

Flights

Travel insurance

Russian visa and visa fees. Russian visa can be arranged by 56th Parallel for an additional cost (for Australian citizens only). Apply for concierge visa service here.

Individual transfers

Alcohol

Dates & Prices

Dates Availability Price Single sup.  
01 Jul - 13 Jul, 2023 (M to UB)
Guaranteed Departures
Available US $18,095 US $8,900 Reserve
10 Jul - 22 Jul, 2023 (UB to M)
Guaranteed Departures
Available US $18,095 US $8,900 Reserve

Naadam Festival – Trans Mongolian Express

13 days / 12 nights

From
$18,095
USD

*Guaranteed departure, price is per person, based on twin share

Make an enquiry detailed itinerary
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Naadam Festival – Trans Mongolian Express

13 days / 12 nights

From
$18,095
USD

*Guaranteed departure, price is per person, based on twin share

Make an enquiry

Dowlnload comprehansive info-kit for this tour, FAQ’s and extras

detailed itinerary
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Why travel to Russia with 56th Parallel?

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Our team offers over 18 years of experience travelling and planning travel in Russia. Delivering outstanding travel experiences in Russia’s capitals and in some of the most stunning & remote locations takes experience, special access and the right connections. We make sure that all the fine details are handled perfectly so you can enjoy your Russia travel experience.

Group & Private Tours

The choice to join a small group on a guaranteed departure or chose to travel on your own dates with your own mates. Each destination we travel to in Russia offers an option between private tours and small group tours. Please note: on our adventure tours in remote destinations, we mostly run group tours to keep the cost down.

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More benefits
+61 412 587 785[email protected]

Naadam Festival – Trans Mongolian Express

Days 13

From USD $18,095

Trip Style Luxury Rail journey

Time of year July

Day 1: Welcome to Mongolia

Our westbound Trans-Mongolian adventure begins in Mongolia. Upon arrival at Ulaan Baatar Airport, you will be met and transferred to your centrally located hotel. We will enjoy a welcome reception dinner at our hotel, whilst you meet your fellow travellers.

Days 2-3: Naadam Festival

On the first day of the festival, we observe the elaborate opening ceremony which consists of local dancers, athletes, horse riders and musicians, before travelling outside Ulaan Baatar to watch the national horse race. On the second day of the festival, we will attend the archery, wrestling and ankle-bone shooting events.

Day 4: Ulaan Bataar

This morning we start our tour of Ulaan Baatar at Gandan Monastery. We also visit the Chinggis Square with the monument to Genghis Khan. As an option, we drive out of the city to the Gorkhi-Terelj National Park and enjoy the beautiful scenery of wild Mongolia, having the opportunity to visit a traditional Ger and meet a nomadic family or try our hand at horse-riding, an intrinsic part of Mongolian life.

Day 5: Russia. Ulan Ude

The ethnic and cultural diversity of Ulan Ude, the capital of the Buryat Republic, offers a unique insight into its heritage. During our exploration of the Old Believers’ Village we have the opportunity to learn about the culture and history of these religious people as we are treated to a concert featuring local traditions and folk singing.

Day 6: Lake Baikal

For five hours we wind our way through tunnels along cliff-hugging tracks above Lake Baikal. Travelling onwards to the end of the Baikal branch line, we leave the train and travel by boat on the lake to Listvyanka, a small Baikal settlement nestling at the base of the surrounding hills. We visit the Lake Baikal Museum and Aquarium where you can learn about the flora and fauna of the lake. We then enjoy a delicious barbecue, including freshly smoked omul fish, prepared by our own chefs on the shore of Lake Baikal to complete a memorable day.

Day 7: Irkutsk

Our visit to Irkutsk, the ‘Paris of Siberia’, takes in the most significant sites and museums in this fascinating city, including an exploration of the classic wooden architecture. You could learn to cook some traditional Russian dishes with a local chef or you might also wish to visit a traditional Russian Dacha (summer house) or an urban apartment to get an insight into the everyday life of an average Russian family.

Day 8: Onboard

A day to unwind and reflect on the many sights and sounds we have experienced on our journey so far. Chat to your fellow passengers, perhaps learn a few more words of Russian or simply enjoy the ever changing landscape outside your window.

Day 9: Novosibirsk

Our Novosibirsk city tour takes us to Lenin Square where the imposing Opera House is located. In front of the Opera House, we visit an impressive statue of Lenin – a marvellous opportunity to have your photograph taken with this iconic political leader. Alternatively, south of the city you could visit Novosibirsk’s excellent Railway Museum or choose to visit the State Art Museum.

Day 10: Yekaterinburg

Our Yekaterinburg city tour takes us to the poignant site where the Romanov, Tsar Nicholas II of Russia, was executed with his family by the Bolsheviks in 1918 following 78 days of imprisonment. Our tour program features a visit to the recently opened Museum of Military Machinery - a real treat for anyone with an interest in the Soviet past, unparalleled by anything else along the route.

Day 11: Kazan

In Kazan, the capital of Tatarstan, we have the opportunity to see for ourselves its rich tapestry of history and culture. One of the highlights of this city tour is our exploration of the Kremlin Fortress, picture-perfect onion-domed cathedral. As Kazan is the birthplace of one of Here we will enjoy a private concert of Feodor Chaliapinis' music. You will also have time to wander through the main pedestrian area of Kazan and immerse yourself in the atmosphere of the city.

Day 12: Moscow

After travelling nearly 4,000 miles (6,400kms) along this iconic railway, today we reach Moscow, our final destination. Our city tour takes us to the grandeur of the Kremlin and to see the treasures of the Tsars in the Armoury Chamber. We also visit Red Square, the St Basil’s Cathedral’s magnificent onion-domed spires, the GUM department store, constructed in Tsarist times, and the sombre and evocative site of Lenin’s tomb.

Day 13: Time to say goodbye

Following breakfast, you will be transferred to the Moscow Airport to begin your journey home. You can extend your stay in Moscow with additional nights to explore more of the city at your leisure.

Included

5* hotels

Comfortable Golden Eagle train accommodation

Full board, starting with dinner on the first day and ending with breakfast on the last day

Arrival and departure transfers, all transportation according to the itinerary with professional drivers

Our experienced tour managers and their assistants are selected for their travel knowledge and their linguistic and organisational abilities allowing you to relax and enjoy your rail cruise

Guided enriching tours with experienced English speaking guides

Wide choice of optional off-train tours

All gratuities

Russian visa support documents

Not included

Flights

Travel insurance

Russian visa and visa fees. Russian visa can be arranged by 56th Parallel for an additional cost (for Australian citizens only). Apply for concierge visa service here.

Individual transfers

Alcohol

Dates & Prices

DatesAvailabilityPriceSingle sup.
01 Jul - 13 Jul, 2023 (M to UB)
Guaranteed Departures
Available US $18,095 US $8,900
10 Jul - 22 Jul, 2023 (UB to M)
Guaranteed Departures
Available US $18,095 US $8,900

Start planning your tour

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Prefer to chat? Call us on +61 412 587 785 we will be delighted to be of service.

Naadam Festival – Trans Mongolian Express

If you have any urgent questions or enquiries, please give us a call +61 412 587 785

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