TERRA FIRMA JOURNEYS
14 Days / 13 Nights
From $2,535 USD
From Hot Springs to Historic Treasures
Discover Mongolia's Hidden Gems in this 14 Days Expedition
Discover the Wonders of Mongolia
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Tsenkher Hot Springs: Relax in the therapeutic natural hot springs surrounded by stunning landscapes, perfect for unwinding after your adventures.
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Kharkhorin: Step into history as you explore the ancient capital of the Mongol Empire, visiting the Erdene Zuu Monastery, one of Mongolia's oldest and most important religious sites.
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Elsen Tasarhai Sand Dunes: Experience the breathtaking contrast of sand dunes against the rugged steppe, where you can ride camels and climb the dunes for spectacular views.
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Cultural Encounters: Stay with local families, participate in traditional food workshops, and gain insight into the nomadic lifestyle that defines Mongolian culture.
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Traditional Mongolian Cuisine: Delight in delicious meals prepared with local ingredients, showcasing the rich culinary heritage of Mongolia.
Why Choose This Expedition?
This 14-day journey is carefully crafted to highlight the natural beauty and cultural depth of Mongolia. From rejuvenating hot springs to fascinating historical sites, every moment is designed to provide a unique and enriching experience in this captivating country.
Expedition available from MAY to OCTOBER
Expedition Overview
Embark on an unforgettable 14-day adventure through the breathtaking landscapes and rich history of Mongolia. This captivating journey will lead you from the soothing waters of Tsenkher Hot Springs to the ancient capital of Kharkhorin, and onto the striking Elsen Tasarhai Sand Dunes.
Expedition Highlights:
Each day brings new discoveries and thrilling activities. Relax in the therapeutic Tsenkher Hot Springs, surrounded by picturesque hills, before exploring the historic Kharkhorin and visiting the UNESCO-listed Erdene Zuu Monastery. Experience the unique beauty of Elsen Tasarhai Sand Dunes with exhilarating camel rides and stunning dune climbs. Enjoy scenic hikes around stunning lakes and volcanic landscapes, all while soaking in the diverse natural beauty of Mongolia.
Cultural Immersion:
Enhance your journey by connecting with local nomadic families, experiencing their warm hospitality firsthand. Participate in a traditional food workshop to learn how to prepare beloved Mongolian dishes, and enjoy captivating folk art concerts that showcase the region's vibrant cultural heritage.
Why Choose This Expedition?
Our meticulously crafted 14-day Mongolia expedition is designed to provide an unparalleled blend of adventure and cultural richness. From the rejuvenating hot springs to the historic treasures of Kharkhorin, every moment is tailored to offer an enriching and unforgettable experience in this enchanting land.
Briefing Room
Day 1: Arrival in Ulaanbaatar, transfer to the hotel, and dinner.
Day 2: Visit Amarbayasgalant Monastery, located in northern Mongolia, and stay at a traditional Ger.
Day 3: Drive to Uran Togoo, an extinct volcano, and hike in the surrounding area.
Day 4: Continue to Ikh Uul, visit a local family, and participate in a food workshop and learn how to make Mongolian food.
Day 5: Journey to Khuvsgul Lake, visit Uushig Valley Bronze Age Monument, and enjoy the scenic views.
Day 6: Free day at Khuvsgul Lake for hiking, horseback riding, or relaxing at the camp.
Day 7: Travel to Terkhiin Tsagaan Nuur, camp, and enjoy a barbecue.
Day 8: Drive to Terkhiin Tsagaan Nuur and hike in the area.
Day 9: Full day hiking to Khorgo Volcano.
Day 10: Drive to Tsenkher Hot Springs, relax in the springs, and stay overnight at a tourist camp.
Day 11: Travel to Kharkhorin, visit Kharkhorin Museum, and Erdene Zuu Monastery.
Day 12: Visit Elsen Tasarhai Sand Dunes, camel riding, and climb the dunes.
Day 13: Return to Ulaanbaatar and enjoy a folk art concert.
Day 14: Transfer to the airport and departure.
Expedition Images
Full Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Ulaanbaatar
Day 2: Amarbayasgalant Monastery
Day 3: Uran Togoo
Upon your arrival, the driver and guide will pick you up in the airport after you have passed customs and retrieved your luggage. Then You will be transfer to the hotel. A warm welcome awaits you as the tour guide provides a brief introduction to the adventure ahead.
You'll have the opportunity to meet your fellow travelers, share a meal together, and rest at the hotel.
Accomodations:
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4* Hotel or similar
Meals Included:
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Dinner
Activities:
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Gather as tour group, meet your tour leader and drivers
On the second day, we will visit Amarbayasgalant Monastery, one of Mongolia's best-preserved Buddhist monasteries from the 18th century, located in the northern region.
Here, we’ll explore the serene surroundings, offering a glimpse of both Mongolia’s nomadic culture and its deep religious heritage.
Additionally, you’ll experience stepping into a traditional Mongolian Ger, a dwelling used for thousands of years, for a firsthand encounter with the local way of life.
Trip info:
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368 km will be done by car
Accomodations:
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Tourist Ger Camp
Meals Included:
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Breakfast
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Lunch
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Dinner
Activities:
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Visit Amarbayasgalant Monastery
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Hiking in the Hills
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Experience a traditional Mongolian Ger
Today, we will journey to Uran Togoo, an extinct volcano located in Mongolia's Bulgan Province. With its last eruption over 20 to 25 million years ago, this ancient volcano boasts a well-preserved crater, now covered with lush grass and trees.
The area is a popular destination for nature enthusiasts and hikers, offering picturesque views of the surrounding landscape and an opportunity to explore the unique volcanic terrain.
Trip info:
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260 km will be done by car
Accomodations:
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Camping
Activities:
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Hiking in the Extinct Volcano
Day 4: Ikh Uul
Day 5: Khuvsgul Lake
Day 6: Khuvsgul Lake°
Today, we’ll travel to Ih Uul town, where you'll immerse yourself in the local Mongolian lifestyle. The highlight of the day will be a visit to a local family, where you’ll participate in a hands-on cooking workshop to prepare a traditional dish, buuz (Mongolian dumplings).
This experience will allow you to make connections with the local people while gaining insight into their customs. In the evening, enjoy time to explore the charming town at your own pace.
Trip Info:
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146km will be done by car
Accomodations:
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Homestay
Meals Included:
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Breakfast
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Lunch
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Dinner
Activities:
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Visit a local family and food workshop
Today, we’ll journey to Khuvsgul Lake, also known as the "Blue Pearl of Mongolia." This is the country's largest freshwater lake by volume and the second-largest by area, located near the Russian border. Surrounded by majestic forests and mountains, Khuvsgul Lake offers stunning natural beauty.
On our way, we'll make a stop at Uushig Valley, home to significant Bronze Age monuments, where you’ll have the chance to explore ancient historical sites before continuing our drive to the serene lake.
Trip info:
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250km will be done by car
Accomodations:
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Tourist Camp
Meals Included:
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Breakfast
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Lunch
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Dinner
Activities:
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Visit historical sites, Khuvsgul and Uushig Valley bronze age monument
After arriving at Khuvsgul Lake, you’ll have the option to fully immerse yourself in its natural beauty. Enjoy a hike to the nearby mountain peak for breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
For a more relaxed experience, spend your time walking along the lake's serene shore, take a peaceful boat ride, or opt for a horse-riding excursion to explore the area from a new perspective. This day offers a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation amidst stunning scenery.
Accomodations:
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Tourist camp
Meals Included:
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Breakfast
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Lunch
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Dinner
Activities:
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Enjoy at your own pace and leisure
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Horse riding
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Boat ride
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Hiking
Day 7: Shine Ider
Day 8: Terkhiin Tsagaan Nuur
Day 9: Terkhiin Tsagaan Nuur
Today, we will head towards Terkhiin Tsagaan Nuur, also known as the Great White Lake, a scenic spot in central Mongolia. This journey marks the turning point of our adventure.
Along the way, we will stop and set up camp near Shine Ider town. It will be a peaceful evening in the Mongolian countryside, providing an opportunity to rest and enjoy the surrounding nature before continuing to explore more of Mongolia's beautiful landscapes.
Trip info:
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250km will be done by car
Accomodations:
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Camping
Meals Included:
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Breakfast
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Lunch
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Dinner
Activities:
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Camping and Barbecue
We will continue our journey to Terkhiin Tsagaan Nuur, or the Great White Lake, a breathtaking body of water located in northern Mongolia.
This stunning lake was formed by the eruption of the nearby Khorgo volcano, creating a picturesque landscape that showcases the region's natural beauty.
As we approach the lake, prepare to be captivated by the serene environment and stunning views that make this destination a highlight of our trip.
Trip info:
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250km will be done by car
Accomodations:
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Tourist camp
Meals Included:
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Breakfast
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Lunch
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Dinner
Activities:
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Hiking and sightseeing
Today, we will spend a full day exploring the stunning lake area, highlighted by a hike to Khorgo Volcano.
This challenging trek offers the opportunity to witness the unique volcanic landscape up close and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding area.
Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the region as we delve into its geological history and marvel at the contrasts between the lake's serene waters and the rugged terrain of the volcano.
Accomodations:
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Tourist camp
Meals Included:
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Breakfast
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Lunch
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Dinner
Activities:
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Hiking and sightseeing at Khorgo Volcano.
Day 10: Tsenkher Hot Springs
Day 11: Kharkhorin
Day 12: Elsen Tasarhai
Today, we will drive to Tsenkher Hot Springs, a popular natural thermal spring situated near the town of Tsetserleg in central Mongolia.
Renowned for its therapeutic properties, the hot springs are enveloped by rolling hills and breathtaking scenery, offering a perfect backdrop for relaxation and rejuvenation.
Enjoy the soothing warmth of the springs while taking in the picturesque landscape that surrounds this serene retreat.
Trip info:
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250km will be done by car
Accomodations:
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Tourist camp
Meals Included:
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Breakfast
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Lunch
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Dinner
Activities:
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Indulge in the soothing warmth of a hot spring and relax
Today, we will drive to Kharkhorin, a historic town established by Genghis Khan in the 13th century and once the capital of the Mongol Empire.
Located near the Orkhon River, it served as a vital trading hub on the Silk Road. Our visit includes the Kharkhorin Museum and the Erdene Zuu Monastery, built in the 16th century on the ancient city's ruins.
This monastery is one of Mongolia's oldest and most significant Buddhist sites, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Trip info:
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120km will be done by car
Accomodations:
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Tourist camp
Meals Included:
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Breakfast
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Lunch
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Dinner
Activities:
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Explore the Kharkhorin Museum and the Erdene Zuu Museum
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Tour the Old Capital of Kharkhorin
Elsen Tasarhai, also known as Elsen Tasarhai Sand Dunes, is a stunning desert region in central Mongolia's Tuv Province. This small yet striking expanse of sand dunes is surrounded by steppe and rocky landscapes, creating a unique contrast to Mongolia's typical terrain.
It is a popular destination for visitors looking to explore the diverse beauty of the country’s landscapes, offering opportunities for hiking, photography, and experiencing the serene environment.
Trip info:
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100km will be done by car
Accomodations:
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Tourist camp
Meals Included:
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Breakfast
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Lunch
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Dinner
Activities:
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Experience camel riding
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Elsen Tasarhai Sand Dunes Sightseeing
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Visit to the Ovgon Temple
Day 13: Back to Ulaanbaatar
Day 14: Departure
As our journey comes to an end, it’s time to say goodbye.
Guests are free to check out from their hotel before noon. We hope you've enjoyed this enriching experience exploring the beauty and culture of Mongolia and created lasting memories. Safe travels!
Meals Included:
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Breakfast
As we conclude our journey, we'll return to Ulaanbaatar. Upon arrival, guests will check into their hotel and unwind before attending a captivating folk art concert, showcasing Mongolia's rich cultural heritage.
The day will be capped off with a farewell dinner, providing an opportunity to reflect on the adventures and experiences shared throughout the trip.
Trip info:
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280km will be done by car
Accomodations:
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4* Hotel
Meals Included:
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Breakfast
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Lunch
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Dinner
Activities:
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Farewell Dinner
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Folk art concert in Ulaanbaatar
Prices & Services
Tour Prices:
3 Pax: $3650 per person
4 Pax: $3400 per person
5 Pax: $3175 per person
6 Pax: $3000 per person
7Pax: $2855 per person
8 and more Pax: 2535$ per person
Notes:
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Children aged 0 - 2 years old stay free of charge
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Children aged 2 to 9 years old can benefit of a 20% discount when sharing a bed in both, the hotel and the tourist camps.
Included Services:
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4* Hotel or similar in Ulaanbaatar
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Tourist Camp Accomodation
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Camp Accomodation
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Homestay Accomodation
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English-speaking tour guide
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Airport transfer
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Meals as mentioned (B-Breakfast - L-Lunch - D-Dinner)
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Entrance fee to sightseeing areas
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National Parks entry fee
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Folk art concert tickets
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Museum tickets
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Horse, Camel and Boat riding
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Unlimited Bottles of water
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And more (More info Upon reservation)
Services Not Included:
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Travel insurance & Visa fees
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(Single room surcharge - 300 USD)
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Extras at the Hotel
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International Airfare/train tickets + Tax
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Early check-in or late check-out fees
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Items of a personal nature such as laundry, drinks, camera or video fees at any sites
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Optional activities such as archery, etc.
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Tips for your guide and driver (discretionary).
Refund & Deposit
Deposit
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$1.500 per person to register and hold your spot
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One week before the start of the tour, Terra Firma Journeys will issue an invoice for the total tour cost based on the number of participants registered by that date. Full payment is required two days prior to the commencement of the tour.
Refund
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1 week: No deposit refund
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2 to 3 weeks: 50-60% refund
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1 month: 70% refund
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2 months: 80% refund
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3 months or more: 90% refund
