Things To Do
in Ulaan-Uul

Ulaan-Uul is a small yet vibrant town in Mongolia, located in the eastern part of the country. Known for its picturesque landscapes and rich cultural heritage, it offers a unique glimpse into traditional Mongolian life. The area is surrounded by stunning mountains and vast steppes, making it a haven for nature lovers.

Visitors to Ulaan-Uul can immerse themselves in local customs and enjoy the beauty of the Mongolian countryside.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Explore Ulaan-Uul
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the local market where you can experience the hustle and bustle of everyday life and sample fresh produce.

afternoon
:

After lunch at a local café, head to the nearby mountains for a scenic hike, taking in the breathtaking views and natural beauty.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a traditional Mongolian restaurant followed by a cultural performance featuring local music and dance.

day 2
Day 2: Cultural Immersion
morning
:

Visit a local museum to learn about the history and culture of Ulaan-Uul and its surroundings.

afternoon
:

Take a guided tour of a traditional ger (yurt) and engage with local families to understand their lifestyle.

evening
:

Wrap up your trip with a sunset view from a nearby hill, followed by a casual meal at a popular street food stall.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at a restaurant$5-10
🚌Public transportation fare$0.50
🛏️Hotel per night$20-40
Coffee at a café$1-3
🍺Local beer$2-4

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Authentic cultural experience
  • Stunning natural landscapes
  • Friendly and welcoming locals
  • Limited nightlife options
  • Language barrier for some travelers
  • Basic infrastructure in certain areas
  • "Сайн байна уу" - Hello
  • "Баярлалаа" - Thank you
  • "Танд сайн байна уу?" - How are you?
  • "Уучлаарай" - Excuse me/Sorry
  • "Тийм" - Yes

Places to Visit in Ulaan-Uul

Visit one of these nice places.

Khentii Mountains

A stunning range of mountains providing breathtaking views and incredible photography opportunities, especially at sunrise and sunset.

Local Ger District

Capture the essence of traditional Mongolian life by photographing the unique gers and the lifestyle of the residents.

Serene Steppes

The expansive steppes around Ulaan-Uul offer picturesque landscapes, ideal for capturing the vastness of Mongolia's natural beauty.

Culinary Guide

Food in Ulaan-Uul

Ulaan-Uul offers a delightful culinary experience with its unique blend of traditional Mongolian dishes and local flavors.

Ulaan-Uul Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Boodog

A traditional Mongolian dish made with goat or sheep, cooked with hot stones inside the animal's skin, resulting in tender and flavorful meat.

Must-Try!

Buuz

Steamed dumplings filled with minced meat and spices, often served during festivals and gatherings.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Ulaan-Uul Market

A bustling market where you can find fresh produce, local delicacies, and a variety of street food options.

Climate Guide

Weather

Ulaan-Uul experiences a continental climate, characterized by hot summers and cold winters. Summer temperatures can rise above 30°C (86°F), while winter can drop to -40°C (-40°F). Spring and autumn are transitional seasons, offering mild weather with occasional rain. The best time to visit for comfortable weather is during the summer months.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Elders

Always show respect to elders by greeting them first and offering help when needed.

Gift Giving

When visiting a local home, it's customary to bring a small gift, such as food or drink, as a token of appreciation.

Removing Shoes

When entering a ger, it's customary to remove your shoes to keep the living space clean.

Safety Guide

Safety

Ulaan-Uul is generally a safe destination for travelers, but it's advisable to take common safety precautions. Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded places, and secure your belongings. It's also wise to have travel insurance and know the location of the nearest medical facilities.

Tipping in Ulaan-Uul

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; rounding up the bill or leaving a small amount is common in restaurants.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted, but some larger establishments may accept credit cards; it's advisable to carry local currency.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring brings blooming wildflowers and milder temperatures, making it a great time for hiking and outdoor activities.

Summer

Summer is warm and ideal for exploring the region, with long days perfect for photography and cultural experiences.

Autumn

Autumn showcases vibrant foliage and cooler temperatures, offering stunning landscapes for photography.

Winter

Winter can be harsh with snow-covered landscapes, but it is a magical time to experience traditional Mongolian customs and festivities.

Nightlife Guide

Ulaan-Uul at Night

Ulaan-Uul's nightlife is relatively low-key, with a few local bars and eateries offering a relaxed atmosphere. While there are no large clubs, visitors can enjoy live music performances and cultural shows in certain venues. Socializing often takes place in smaller gatherings or at local restaurants, providing an authentic experience of Mongolian social life.

Hiking in Ulaan-Uul

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Ikh Khulun Mountain Trail

A moderate hike that offers spectacular views of the surrounding landscape and is suitable for most hikers.

Khentii National Park Trails

A network of trails within the national park, ranging from easy to challenging, showcasing the diverse flora and fauna of the region.

Airports

How to reach Ulaan-Uul by plane.

Chinggis Khaan International Airport

Located in Ulaanbaatar, approximately 600 km from Ulaan-Uul, this is the nearest major airport offering international flights and connections.

Getting Around

Walkability

Ulaan-Uul is relatively walkable, with many attractions located within walking distance of each other. The town's layout is simple, making it easy for visitors to navigate. However, some areas may have uneven terrain, so wearing comfortable shoes is recommended.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Mongolian Nomads

The traditional nomadic population that still practices herding and livestock management, living in gers and moving with the seasons.

Urban Dwellers

Residents of Ulaan-Uul who are often engaged in trade, small businesses, and tourism-related activities.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Horse Racing

A traditional sport in Mongolia, especially during Naadam, showcasing the skills of both horse and rider.

Wrestling

An important cultural sport, wrestling matches are held during festivals and are a source of national pride.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Ulaan-Uul is generally light, with few vehicles on the roads. Public transportation options are limited, but local buses and taxis are available. Walking and cycling are popular ways to get around, especially for short distances.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Ulaan-Uul.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

While traditional Mongolian cuisine is meat-heavy, some restaurants offer vegetarian dishes like salads and vegetable dumplings.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Ulaan-Uul is limited, with basic medical facilities available. For more serious health concerns, travelers may need to travel to larger cities like Ulaanbaatar. It's advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies and to carry necessary medications.

Discover Mongolia

Read more in our Mongolia 2025 Travel Guide.

Mongolia Travel Guide