Ulan Bator, Mongolia-4-day-itinerary

Day 1: Explore the Capital City

  • Morning: Start your day at the iconic Genghis Khan Square, a sprawling public space surrounded by important government buildings. Take a stroll around the square and grab some coffee at one of the local cafes.
  • 9:00 AM: Visit the nearby National Museum of Mongolia to learn about the country’s rich history, from ancient civilizations to modern-day culture.
  • 12:30 PM: Grab lunch at Ger (Улаанбаатарын ГЭР), a cozy restaurant serving traditional Mongolian dishes like boortsok (meat soup) and khorkhog (roasted meat).
  • 2:00 PM: Head to the Sukhbaatar Square, another large public space featuring the famous equestrian statue of Genghis Khan. Take in the lively atmosphere and snap some photos.
  • 6:00 PM: Enjoy dinner at Leer (Лееер), a popular restaurant serving international cuisine with a focus on Mongolian flavors.
  • Accommodation: Stay at the Hotel Ariana, a modern hotel located in the heart of the city, within walking distance to many attractions.

Day 2: Cultural Experiences

  • 9:00 AM: Visit the Bogd Khan Museum to see an impressive collection of art and artifacts related to Mongolian history and culture.
  • 11:30 AM: Take a short walk to the nearby Gandan Monastery, one of the most important Buddhist temples in Mongolia. Explore the tranquil courtyards and attend a prayer ceremony (if you’re lucky!).
  • 1:00 PM: Grab lunch at Mongolia Restaurant (Монголын Хоёрхор), which serves authentic Mongolian cuisine.
  • 3:00 PM: Visit the Zanabazar Museum, dedicated to the founder of Tibetan Buddhism in Mongolia. Learn about his life and achievements.
  • 7:00 PM: Enjoy a traditional Mongolian dinner at Khokhormorin (Хохорморин), which offers live music and dancing performances.

Day 3: Outdoor Adventures

  • 9:00 AM: Visit the Naran Tuul Lake, a scenic spot for boating, fishing, or simply taking in the views. Rent a boat or join a guided tour.
  • 12:30 PM: Grab lunch at Lakeview Restaurant (Лейвэйв Ресторан), which offers stunning lake views and international cuisine.
  • 2:00 PM: Explore the nearby Genghis Khan Statue Complex, featuring an impressive 40-meter statue of the Mongol emperor. Take in the panoramic views from the top.
  • 5:00 PM: Visit the Tumen Ekh Ensemble, a cultural center showcasing traditional music, dance, and art performances.

Day 4: Last-Minute Explorations

  • 9:00 AM: Visit the Zaisan Memorial, a war memorial offering panoramic views of the city. Learn about Mongolia’s military history.
  • 11:30 AM: Explore the local markets at Naran Tuul Lake, where you can find souvenirs, traditional clothing, and handmade crafts.
  • 1:00 PM: Grab lunch at Sudar (Судар), a cozy restaurant serving international cuisine with a focus on vegetarian dishes.
  • 3:00 PM: Return to your hotel for some downtime before departing.

Things to Know

  • Weather: Ulan Bator’s climate is continental, with very cold winters and warm summers. Be prepared for chilly mornings and evenings in spring or autumn.
  • Language: Mongolian is the official language, but many locals speak English. Try to learn basic phrases like “Sain bainuu” (hello) and “Bolovsor” (thank you).
  • Currency: The Mongolian tögrög (MNT) is the local currency, although USD is widely accepted.
  • Safety: Be mindful of your belongings in crowded areas and tourist hotspots.

Transportation

  • Getting around: Use taxis or ride-hailing services like Grab or Go-Jek. You can also walk or bike in many areas, but be prepared for traffic congestion.
  • Airport transfers: Book a private transfer service or use the public bus to get from Chinggis Khaan International Airport (ULN) to your hotel.

Tips

  • Dress modestly: Respect local customs and dress conservatively when visiting temples or mosques.
  • Try local cuisine: Be adventurous with traditional Mongolian dishes like boortsok, khorkhog, and shashlik.
  • Respect the environment: Mongolia is a vast and fragile country. Help preserve its natural beauty by reducing your impact on the environment.

Other Things to Do

  • Take a guided tour: Book a guided tour to explore the surrounding countryside, visit nomadic families, or attend cultural performances.
  • Visit the State Department Store (SDS): This government-run store offers an array of local products, including souvenirs and traditional clothing.