Mongolia, renowned for its sprawling landscapes adorned with pristine yurts and the allure of nomadic culture, seldom conjures thoughts of polo. However, nestled within the depths of the Orkhon Valley lies an unexpected catalyst for change – the Genghis Khan Retreat.
For nearly three decades, the retreat has remained a cherished secret just 25 kilometers south of Kharkhorin, the ancient capital once ruled by Genghis Khan.
More than just a luxurious escape, it’s the retreat’s focus on sustainability and community empowerment that has helped solidify it as one of the best places to stay in Mongolia. Through their Young Riders of the World program, local herder families' children receive education and polo training, supported entirely by guest contributions.
The retreat is entirely self-sufficient, utilizing solar power and natural resources for their daily operations. At the season’s end in September, they meticulously dismantle the entire camp, leaving virtually no trace of their presence behind. A reflection of the nomadic tradition where local families do the same, following their herds to better grazing throughout the changing seasons.
During the retreat’s season from June to September, guests reside in traditional Mongolian yurts adorned with handcrafted furniture, cozy fireplaces, and luxurious cashmere blankets, embracing authentic comforts amid Mongolia's brisk evenings.
Days can be filled getting to know the 100 riding and polo horses the retreat has, inviting guests to partake in lessons or embark on exploratory rides across the valley. Afternoons are punctuated with stick-and-ball training and polo sessions, conducted by world-class players drawn to this ethereal setting, reminiscent of the sport's historical resonance during Genghis Khan's era.
The retreat's pinnacle event, an annual international polo tournament held annually in August, merges local and international talent, drawing aspiring and seasoned players alike to vie for the esteemed camp cup. It's a spectacle that encapsulates the essence of polo in the High Asian expanse.
Beyond polo, the retreat offers an array of activities – kayaking down the Orkhon River, mountain biking, rock climbing, traditional archery, and visits to nearby monasteries as well as Kharkhorin, one of the most historically important stops along the ancient Silk Road. Mornings beckon with guided yoga and serene bathing experiences that make use of the camp’s Japanese wooden tubs.
Evenings unveil a scene of refined elegance. Guests gather for candlelit, multi-course meals within the dining yurt, serenaded by the melodies of Mongolian pianist Odgerel Sampilnorov. This sophisticated affair epitomizes the fusion of ancient tradition and modern indulgence.
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Among the last countries to resume tourism activities post-pandemic, North Korea is set to welcome its first international tourists in February, marking the end of its border closure since January 22, 2020. And tourists, especially in Russia, are taking note.
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Tourism leaders from around the world will join together in Saudi Arabia’s capital city, Riyadh, for 2023’s United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) World Tourism Day on September 27 and 28. Global tourism ministers and others in the industry will participate in events to connect and collaborate. The location of this year’s event shows how far tourism has come in the few short years since Saudi Arabia opened to tourists in 2019.