Things To Do
in Ulaanbaatar
Ulaanbaatar, the capital city of Mongolia, is a vibrant blend of traditional Mongolian culture and modern urban life. Nestled in a picturesque valley surrounded by mountains, it is the political, economic, and cultural heart of the country. The city is known for its unique architecture, which includes both Soviet-era buildings and traditional yurts.
With a growing arts scene, rich history, and easy access to stunning landscapes, Ulaanbaatar provides an intriguing destination for travelers.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Gandan Monastery, one of Mongolia's most important Buddhist sites, where you can witness monks in prayer.
Explore the National Museum of Mongolia to learn about the country's history and culture, followed by a leisurely stroll through Sukhbaatar Square.
Dine at a local restaurant to try traditional Mongolian cuisine, then head to a cultural performance showcasing Mongolian throat singing and dance.
Take a day trip to the beautiful Terelj National Park, where you can hike and enjoy stunning landscapes.
Visit the iconic Turtle Rock and the Aryabal Meditation Temple for breathtaking views of the area.
Return to Ulaanbaatar and enjoy a relaxing dinner at a café, followed by drinks at a local bar.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍽️Meal at a restaurant | $5-$15 |
| ☕Coffee | $1-$3 |
| 🍏Fruit (1 kg) | $1-$2 |
| 🚌Public transport fare | $0.50 |
| 🏨Hotel (1 night) | $30-$100 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and history.
- Stunning natural landscapes nearby.
- Affordable costs compared to many other capitals.
- Extreme weather conditions.
- Limited public transport options.
- Language barrier can be challenging.
- "Сайн уу" - Hello
- "Баярлалаа" - Thank you
- "Тийм" - Yes
- "Үгүй" - No
- "Сайн байна уу?" - How are you?
Places to Visit in Ulaanbaatar
Visit one of these nice places.
The central square features impressive statues and monuments, making it a great spot for urban photography.
Capture the essence of Mongolian Buddhism with vibrant colors and stunning architecture.
A breathtaking landscape with mountains and rock formations, perfect for nature photography.
Food in Ulaanbaatar
Ulaanbaatar Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Steamed dumplings filled with minced meat, typically lamb or beef, often enjoyed during festivals.
Must-Try!
Fried meat pies that are crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, commonly sold by street vendors.
Dried curds that serve as a popular snack, often enjoyed with tea.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
The largest market in Ulaanbaatar, offering a variety of fresh produce, meats, and traditional Mongolian products.
Numerous stalls throughout the city serve up local favorites like khuushuur and buuz, perfect for a quick bite.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A traditional Mongolian greeting involves a handshake followed by a light bow. It's polite to ask about someone's health.
Showing respect to elders is important in Mongolian culture, including offering your seat and using polite language.
When visiting someone's home, it's customary to bring a small gift, such as sweets or fruits, as a sign of respect.
Safety
Tipping in Ulaanbaatar
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated, with 10% being a common amount in restaurants. In bars, rounding up the bill is typical.
Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels and major restaurants, but cash is preferred in smaller shops and markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Expect freezing temperatures and snowfall. Dress warmly with layers, as it can be very cold, especially in the evenings.
Temperatures begin to rise, and the city comes alive with blooming flowers. It's a great time for outdoor activities.
Warm temperatures make this the most popular tourist season. Expect vibrant cultural festivals and outdoor events.
Cooler temperatures and beautiful fall foliage make it a picturesque time to visit, with fewer tourists.
Ulaanbaatar at Night
Hiking in Ulaanbaatar
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular hiking destination that offers panoramic views of Ulaanbaatar and the surrounding area, ideal for a short trek.
Located just outside the city, this mountain features various trails for hiking, with stunning landscapes and historical sites.
Airports
How to reach Ulaanbaatar by plane.
Located about 18 km from Ulaanbaatar, it is the primary international airport serving the city, with connections to various countries and domestic flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority of the population is ethnic Mongolian, with a rich history and cultural traditions that influence everyday life.
A significant minority group, Kazakhs primarily reside in the western regions of Mongolia and contribute to the country's diverse cultural tapestry.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A traditional sport in Mongolia, wrestling is a significant part of the Naadam Festival, showcasing strength and skill.
Horse racing is a popular sport, particularly during the Naadam Festival, where competitions attract large crowds.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Ulaanbaatar.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Mongolian cuisine is meat-heavy, some restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, and fresh salads are available at markets.
Gluten-free options may be limited, so it's advisable to check with restaurants about ingredients.