Ulan Bator, Mongolia-6-day-itinerary

Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia: 6-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Ulaanbaatar

  • Morning: Arrive at Chinggis Khaan International Airport (ULN)
  • Transportation: Take a taxi or bus to your hotel ( approx. $10-$20 USD)
  • Accommodation: Check-in at Hotel Shangri-La or similar
  • Lunch: Try traditional Mongolian cuisine at Ger Cafe
  • Afternoon: Visit the National Museum of Mongolia (open from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM) to learn about the country’s history and culture
  • Evening: Enjoy a traditional Mongolian performance, including throat singing and contortionism, at The State Academic Song and Dance Ensemble

Day 2: Explore the City

  • Morning: Visit the Zanabazar Museum (open from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM) to see an impressive collection of Buddhist art and artifacts
  • Lunch: Try some Western-style food at Cafe de France
  • Afternoon: Explore the bustling Black Market (Naran Tuul), where you can find everything from souvenirs to handicrafts
  • Evening: Visit the Gorkhi-Terelj National Park, just outside Ulaanbaatar, for a beautiful sunset

Day 3: Terelj National Park

  • Morning: Take a day trip to the stunning Turquoise Lake in Terelj National Park (approx. 1-hour drive from Ulaanbaatar)
  • Lunch: Try some traditional Mongolian barbecue at Ger Camp
  • Afternoon: Visit the beautiful Aryapalo Rock, with its stunning views of the surrounding landscape
  • Evening: Return to Ulaanbaatar and enjoy a relaxing evening at your hotel

Day 4: Buddhist Temples

  • Morning: Visit the Gandantegchinlen Monastery (open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM), one of the few remaining Buddhist temples in Ulaanbaatar
  • Lunch: Try some traditional Mongolian food at Tumen Ekh
  • Afternoon: Explore the beautiful Buddhist temple complex, including a stunning statue of the Buddha and intricate carvings
  • Evening: Enjoy a relaxing evening at your hotel

Day 5: Museum and Market

  • Morning: Visit the State Academic Library (open from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM), which houses an impressive collection of Mongolian literature and art
  • Lunch: Try some Western-style food at Cafe de France
  • Afternoon: Explore the bustling Central Market, where you can find everything from fresh produce to handicrafts
  • Evening: Enjoy a relaxing evening at your hotel

Day 6: Departure from Ulaanbaatar

  • Morning: Spend some time shopping for souvenirs or last-minute sightseeing
  • Transportation: Take a taxi or bus back to the airport (approx. $10-$20 USD)
  • Departure: Depart from Chinggis Khaan International Airport (ULN)

Tips and Essentials:

  • Language: Mongolian is the official language, but many people speak English, especially in tourist areas.
  • Currency: Mongolian tugrik (MNT) is the local currency. Credit cards are widely accepted at hotels, restaurants, and shops.
  • Weather: Ulaanbaatar has a continental climate with hot summers and cold winters. Pack accordingly.
  • Safety: Be aware of pickpocketing and scams in crowded areas. Stay hydrated and take regular breaks to avoid exhaustion.
  • Respect local customs: Remove your shoes when entering temples or homes, and dress modestly.

Other things to know:

  • Ulaanbaatar has a growing expat community, with many Western-style restaurants and bars.
  • The city has a vibrant nightlife scene, with live music and performances at various venues.
  • Many locals speak some English, but it’s still a predominantly Mongolian-speaking city.
  • Be prepared for crowds and chaos in the markets and streets.

Recommended accommodations:

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