Exclusive expedition tour of Tsam mask dance festival and Nomadic Liftstyle in Mongolia. Lead by JKBoy.
Trip period:
29 August - 5 September, 2024 [8 days]
Price $2,900 USD*
TSAM MASK DANCE FESTIVAL
Amarbayasgalant Monastery
Nomadic Liftstyle
Mini Gobi desert (Elsen Tasarkhai)
Ancient Monastery Ulaanbaatar
Invite you to experience the charm of culture and Nomadic Lifestyle in Mongolia with JKboy. Travel to the most exclusive travel and photography routes that no one has ever reached before.
Expedition to sacred culture of Mongolia, TSAM mask dance ceremony, Nomadic Lifestyle and Mini Gobi desert. Explore unseen culture of Mongolia and photography workshop with studio lighting and set up by JKboy. Travel comfortably throughout the trip by a private 4x4 Land Cruiser vehicle with personal driver. Comfort accommodation in a Mongolian-style tent (ger). Travel in wonderful period of autumn in Mongoila.
Tsam mask dance festival ceremony
The Tsam dance is a secret ritual that, although originating in Tibet, incorporates various elements of Mongolian culture. In Mongolia, the Tsam dance showcases a rich fusion of Mongolian cultural elements, including the creative imagination and aesthetics of Mongolian craftsmen, the portrayal of heroes from folk legends, and elements of shamanism. The ceremonial clothes and masks are exclusively worn by young lamas. The weight of the silver and brass ornaments on their attire is considerable, and it takes a long time to dress in them. Each mask is considered a vessel for a divine deity. When not in use, they are kept in the ceremonial room and receive daily prayers. Each mask represents a deity, demon, or mythological animal in Buddhism. They do not have eye holes, as it is believed that they serve as the dwelling place of the gods. This requires the wearer to look out from the mouth and dance to the rhythms of the musical instruments and chants, embodying the role of gods and demons while reenacting a battle between the two factions.Numerous sutras and tantras extol the virtues of attending this ceremony, considering it an invaluable merit. It is evident that the mask dance is not merely a theatrical performance but a sacred "ritual". When the temple holds ceremonies on special occasions, visitors need to approach it not merely for entertainment, but with faith, devotion, and a pure mindset. The dancer represents a deity who appears before us, and if we view it with this mindset, it is believed to ward off diseases, negative influences, and obstacles.
The TSAM mask dance ceremony in Amarbayasgalant Monastery is unique. Held only once a year, it is a ritual to purify evil for 3 days and 3 nights.
Amarbayasgalant Monastery
Amarbayasgalant Monastery, also known as the "Monastery of Peace," holds a significant place among the three largest monastic centers in Mongolia. Situated in the Iven Valley within the Selenge Province of northern Mongolia, the monastery is approximately 60 km southwest of the nearest town, Erdenet. The Tsam mask dance festival ceremony was held at this temple.
Mini Gobi (Elsen Tasarkhai)
Explore and travel in Elsen Tasarkhai, otherwise known as the Little Gobi are majestic golden sand dunes. These sand dunes spread for around 80 km across 3 of the 21 provinces of Mongolia: Tuv, Bulgan, and Uvurkhangai.
Nomadic Liftstyle
Explore the heart of traditional Mongolian nomadic culture, engaging in activities such as horseback riding, archery, and immersing yourself in the rhythms of traditional games. As the day concludes, embrace the authenticity of the nomadic lifestyle with an overnight stay in a traditional ger at the Nomadic Center.
* Limited seat available.
* Transportation by private Land Cruiser 4x4 with personal driver (3 person/car)
* Accommodation Kempinski Hotel (or equal) in Ulaanbaatar and Tourist Camp Ger for upcountry (Comfortable toilet and shower room available)
* Accommodation 2 person/room (Singel room plus 600 USD/person)
* Trip price include: accommodation, transportation in Mongolia, meals (as show in itinary), model cost and workshop, expert and studio crew team, local guide, travel insurance.
* Price NOT include: international air tickets, tip guide, personal expenses.
Itinary
Day 1: Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia
Meal: -/-/D Accommodation: Kempinski Hotel or eq.
Arrive in Ulaanbaatar, the pulsating heart of Mongolia. As you check into your hotel, let the rich cultural tapestry of the city seep into your senses. Take a moment to rest and rejuvenate after your journey. Depends arrival time we can make little city tour, immerse yourself in the dynamic energy of the city center, Sukhbaatar Square, and its bustling surroundings. For a deeper dive into Mongolia's spiritual heritage, consider an optional visit to the Gandantegchinlen Monastery, an awe-inspiring sanctuary with a history as vast as the Mongolian steppes. Warm welcome dinner together.
Day 2: Mongol Nomadic Center
Meal: B/L/D Accommodation: Mongolia style, Ger.
After breakfast at hotel. Venture beyond the city limits, driving approximately 50 km to the Mongol Nomadic Center. Delve into the heart of traditional Mongolian nomadic culture, engaging in activities such as horseback riding, archery, and immersing yourself in the rhythms of traditional games. As the day concludes, embrace the authenticity of the nomadic lifestyle with an overnight stay in a traditional ger at the Nomadic Center.
Day 3: Ulaanbaatar - Temples and Monasteries
Meal: B/L/D Accommodation: Mongolia style, Ger.
Embark on a picturesque journey to Amarbayasgalan Monastery, an architectural marvel nestled in the serene Mongolian landscape. Arrive just in time for the Tsam festival, a mesmerizing Buddhist ceremony featuring mask dances and sacred rituals. The evening unfolds with an overnight stay in a tourist camp, providing proximity to the spiritual ambiance of the monastery.
Amarbayasgalant Monastery, also known as the "Monastery of Peace," holds a significant place among the three largest monastic centers in Mongolia. Situated in the Iven Valley within the Selenge Province of northern Mongolia, the monastery is approximately 60 km southwest of the nearest town, Erdenet. Originally constructed between 1727 and 1737 by the Yongzheng Emperor of the Manchu Empire, Amarbayasgalant Monastery was dedicated to Zanabazar, a prominent Buddhist leader and Mongolian sculptor. In 1779, Zanabazar's mummified body was brought to the monastery. During the communist purge led by Stalin in 1937, which destroyed numerous Buddhist statues and monasteries and the loss of many lives among the monks, Amarbayasgalant Monastery managed to survive the devastation. It stands as one of the few monasteries that remained intact during that period of turmoil.
Day 4: Tsam mask dance festival ceremony at Amarbayasgalant Monastery
Meal: B/L/D Accommodation: Mongolia style, Ger
Attend to Tsam mask dance festival ceremony, absorbing the spiritual energy that permeates the air. Dedicate time to exploring the expansive grounds of Amarbayasgalan Monastery, discovering the history and significance woven into every stone and prayer flag.
The Tsam dance is an intricate art form deeply rooted in religion and culture. It combines the body, language, and intellectual genius to convey a unified meaning through the movements of dance, chanting, and meditation. When observing this dance, one can witness the embodiment of guardians and gods within the dancer's form.
The term "Tsam" originates from Tibetan and carries two distinct meanings in present-day usage. Firstly, it refers to dancing. Secondly, it represents the cessation of mental suffering through emptiness. While Buddhist Tsam performances may be appreciated for their artistic expression, they hold a much deeper significance as complex Buddhist Tantra rituals.
The mask dance is a religious ritual imbued with hidden meanings. The rules and interpretations are studied by knowledgeable monks who have attained a certain level of expertise and strictly adhere to the guidelines. The religious nature of the Tsam mask dance is evident in its performance alongside Buddhist prayers and chants, following specific dates and carefully selected locations.
As mentioned earlier, the mask dance serves as a significant ceremony within Tantra. Only well-prepared monks are chosen to perform it. The dance is carried out according to specific requirements and in particular circumstances. For instance, Tsam performances aim to subdue and purify the external environment, and dispel disease, suffering, war, famine, and adversity, while emanating prosperity. Monks undergo prior examinations to familiarize themselves with the laws of Tsam and prepare for the performance through meditative practices to purify their minds.
Day 5: Elsen Tasarkhai (Mini Gobi)
Meal: B/L/D Accommodation: Mongolia style, Ger
Embark on a scenic journey to Elsen Tasarkhai /mini Gobi/, a semi-desert region adorned with mesmerizing sand dunes. Experience the timeless beauty of the landscape with a camel ride through the undulating dunes, culminating in a breathtaking sunset. As the day winds down, settle into the tranquility of a ger camp for an authentic overnight experience.
Elsen Tasarkhai is a part of the Mongol Els sand dunes, that continues 80 km long 5 km wide across Burd, Bulgan and Gurvanbulag soums of Uvurkhangai province. It is located 280 km west of Ulaanbaatar and 80 km east of Karakorum - the ancient Mongolian capital. The area is surrounded by sand dunes, hills covered with rare bushes and a small forest near a river. Together this presents a unique combination of Mongolian mountains, forests and Gobi-type landscape in one location. Local people call this sand dunes Duut mankhan (Singing sand).
Sunset landscape shoot and dinner. Today we stay in a tourist camp at Elsen tasarkhai.
Day 6: Return to Ulaanbaatar
Meal: B/L/D Accommodation: Kempinski Hotel or eq.
Sunrise lanscape shoot of Elsen tasarkhai and after breakfast we travel back to Ulaanbaatar, where the modern and the ancient seamlessly coexist. Optionally, deepen your understanding of Mongolia's history at the National Museum. Explore local markets, acquiring souvenirs and traditional crafts that capture the essence of Mongolian artistry.
Day 7: Ulaanbaatar Temples and Monasteries
Meal: B/L/D Accommodation: Kempinski Hotel or eq.
Embark on a morning journey of spiritual exploration with visits to both the Gandantegchinlen Monastery and the Choijin Lama Temple, two landmarks adorned with intricate Buddhist artistry. In the afternoon, ascend to the Zaisan Memorial for panoramic views of the sprawling city, followed by a captivating visit to the Bogd Khaan Palace Museum, home to an array of historical artifacts, offering a glimpse into Mongolia's regal past.
The journey concludes with a farewell dinner, a perfect opportunity to reflect on the adventures and cultural revelations of your Mongolian sojourn.
Day 8: Departure
Meal: B/-/- Accommodation: -
Bid farewell to the Land of the Eternal Blue Sky, carrying with you the memories of a journey through ancient monasteries, nomadic landscapes, and the vibrant spirit of Mongolia. Depart from Ulaanbaatar with a heart enriched by the tapestry of experiences woven into the fabric of this extraordinary land.
FAQ?
About MONGOLIA:
Mongolia is a landlocked country in Asia. It borders on the north with Russia and on the south with China. Mongolia has one of the lowest population density in the world. With a lot of space but a very small population. Most of the population lives in Ulaanbaatar, the capital of the country.
Mongolia has four seasons: spring, summer, autumn and winter. The weather in Mongolia varies from season to season, especially in the desert where the weather is extremely different. For example, in the summer (July-August), the temperature may rise to 40 degrees Celsius, while in the winter (November-February), it may be as cold as -40 degrees Celsius.
Traveling period of this trip is during the autumn of Mongolia. The daytime temperature is about 15-20 degrees Celsius and at night about 10-12 degrees Celsius, which is considered a cool and comfortable period. Tree leaves during this period is changing color to reddish yellow making all landscape have beautiful scenery and suitable for travel.
About our exclusive expendition tour:
Join the journey with us. Venture through well-explored and planned routes for your unforgettable experience. In addition to traveling to places that are remote and beautiful, we will bring you to experience an unseen cultural paths that inaccessible to ordinary people through our special permission and coordination to explore into the secret area.
Our trip taking you at the best of times. You also get to experience with local people, learning their way of life closely and friendly, along with a workshop to take portraits photo in Outdoor and Indoor, which we have prepared studio lighting equipments for you. Through the advice and learning to take pictures like a professional by JKboy, a portrait and cultural photographer who has won many awards on the world stage, he will come to set the scene, arrange layouts and recommend every technique so that you can capture impressive images and special memories like a professional whether you use a pro-camera, a compact camera, or even a mobile camera.
For those who do not take pictures, can travel with us or not ?
For those who want to travel in general, there may be questions like this. So our photography tours are not like regular tours. We will focus on in-depth access to the atmosphere of each place. Our trips are designed to make a unique travel. It is a cultural route that is difficult for general people or other tours to access. Especially the routes that require special permission.
Traveling with us can create special experiences and memories that cannot be found anywhere else. If you are not interested in photography, we have staff to bring you to enjoy the local culture through optional activities.
In addition, we also provide photography services by our crew staff for our customers to capture your moment of the journey as well.
Terms and condition
Price: $2,900 USD/Person
* Limited seat available.
* Transportation by private Land Cruiser 4x4 with personal driver (3 person/car)
* Accommodation 2 person/room (Singel room plus 600 USD/person)
* Trip price include: accommodation, all transportation in Mongolia with personal, meals (as show in itinary), model cost and workshop, local guide, travel insurance.
* Price NOT include: international air tickets, tip guide, personal expenses.
* Private group trip is available on request. please contact us for more information.
Contact: Line ID: @Jkboy Email: iamjkboy@gmail.com
Payment:
30% deposit payment ($ 900 USD) to confrim the reservation of expedition.
Final balance of payment require within 20 June, 2024.
Payment method:
Bank transfer
Credit card
Booking conditions and cancellation:
As soon as we have the deposit payment, your booking reservation is confirmed.
The order in the booking will be confirmed in order of payment of the deposit.
The deposit is non-refundable.
Payment & Cancellation Policy:
We ask for a deposit of 30% to be paid. As soon as we have the deposit your booking reservation is confirmed. The deposit is non-refundable.
We ask for the final balance of payment 60 days before the expedition commences.
Cancellation by you within 30-60 days before the commencement of the expedition, 50% of final balance of payment will refund as a credit points, For use as a discount on travel or workshop on our other trips (rebate credit valid for 1 year)
Cancellation by you within 30 days of the commencement of the expedition incurs a penalty of 100% of monies paid to date.
If you have force majeure that you are unable to travel by yourself. Can request to change the name of the traveler to another person within 10 days before the expedition commences without additional fees. (Replacement in same condition of your booking)
We will do everything possible to organize your expedition itinerary as requested, however, due to the remote nature of the destination and possible sudden changes in the tropical weather conditions and lack of reliable communications, when on the Sepik River part of the expedition, changes of plans are sometimes necessary.
We make plans to cover most problems should they arise, which is very seldom, but the visitor must be aware of the small possibility of plans not working out as per schedule and accept this warning.
Please be assured we will do everything in our powers to rearrange the expedition accordingly and find suitable solutions for you. However, we cannot be held responsible for sudden changes of plan when there is no alternative. Please be aware that any additional costs incurred in rearranging a disrupted itinerary will be your responsibility and/or your travel insurers.
We strongly recommend that all visitors obtain their own travel insurance to cover forced cancellation of the tour due to unexpected circumstances, e.g., bad weather conditions causing stoppage of flights, loss of baggage or personal items, medical emergency, and forced changes to your itinerary due to reasons beyond our control or planning.
In the event that the travel companions do not reach the minimum number within 60 days before departure. We reserves the right to postpone the schedule or cancel the trip.
The decision to cancel the trip is the sole discretion of our tour company. In case of cancellation of the trip by us. We are willing to refund the full amount that has already been paid back to the customer. Except for air tickets that have already been purchased, which may be able to refund as a policy from the airline only.
Please note, For whom made the transaction by credit card payment, the refundable value after deducted 5% by credit card transaction fee.
Contact: Line ID: @Jkboy Email: iamjkboy@gmail.com