Ulan Bator, Mongolia-7-day-itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Ulaanbaatar

  • Morning: Arrive at Chinggis Khaan International Airport
  • Afternoon: Check-in at Gobi Hi-Park Hotel (starts at $40/night)
    • Location: In the heart of Ulaanbaatar, close to the National Museum and Gandan Monastery
  • 2 pm: Lunch at Buddha Bar (average meal price: 20,000 MNT / $7.50 USD)
    • Try their traditional Mongolian dishes with a modern twist
  • 4 pm: Visit the National Museum of Mongolia
    • Learn about Mongol history and culture at this world-class museum
  • Evening: Explore the city’s night market (located near the State Department Store)
    • Try some local street food and drinks, such as airag (fermented horse milk)

Day 2: City Exploration

  • Morning: Visit the Gandan Monastery
    • This beautiful monastery complex is home to a giant golden Buddha statue
  • 10 am: Walk around the Sukhbaatar Square (former Lenin Square)
    • Take in the city’s sights and sounds, including street performers and vendors
  • Lunch at Mongolian BBQ House (average meal price: 15,000 MNT / $5.50 USD)
    • Enjoy a traditional Mongolian barbecue experience with grilled meats and vegetables
  • Afternoon: Visit the National Park of Ulaanbaatar
    • Explore this beautiful park with lakes, forests, and wildlife

Day 3: Day Trip to Genghis Khan Statue

  • Take a taxi or minibus (20-30 minutes) to the Genghis Khan Statue Complex
    • Visit the world’s largest equestrian statue of Chinggis Khaan
  • Lunch at the nearby Khustai National Park
    • Try some local food and drinks, such as camel meat or airag
  • Return to Ulaanbaatar in the late afternoon

Day 4: Spiritual Experience

  • Morning: Visit the Zanabazar Buddhist Temple
    • Learn about Mongolian Buddhism at this historic temple complex
  • Lunch at Mongolian Delight (average meal price: 18,000 MNT / $6.50 USD)
    • Try some traditional Mongolian dishes with a modern twist
  • Afternoon: Visit the Tumen Ekh Ensemble
    • Watch a traditional Mongolian dance performance
  • Evening: Relax at your hotel or explore the city’s nightlife

Day 5: Cultural Immersion

Day 6: Shopping and Relaxation

  • Morning: Visit the State Department Store
    • Shop for local souvenirs, such as cashmere goods or traditional crafts
  • Lunch at Buddha Bar (average meal price: 20,000 MNT / $7.50 USD)
    • Try some modern Mongolian cuisine with a twist
  • Afternoon: Relax at your hotel’s spa or take a leisurely stroll around the city

Day 7: Departure

  • Morning: Check-out of Gobi Hi-Park Hotel
    • Return to Chinggis Khaan International Airport for departure
  • Before departing, try some local street food or drinks at the airport

Things to Know:

  • Weather: Ulaanbaatar has a continental climate with cold winters and mild summers. Pack accordingly.
  • Language: Mongolian is the official language, but many locals speak English.
  • Currency: The Mongolian tugrik (MNT) is the local currency, although USD and credit cards are widely accepted.
  • Safety: Ulaanbaatar is generally a safe city, but take normal precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.

Transportation:

  • Airport: Chinggis Khaan International Airport (ULN)
  • Public Transport: Minibuses and taxis are available for short journeys. Hire a taxi or rent a car for longer trips.
  • Walking: Explore the city on foot, but be aware of traffic and pedestrian crossings.

Tips:

  • Respect local customs: Dress modestly when visiting temples or attending cultural events.
  • Haggle politely: When shopping at markets or from street vendors, haggle politely to get a fair price.
  • Try local cuisine: Experiment with traditional Mongolian dishes, such as buuz or airag.

Other Tips and Recommendations:

  • Book accommodations in advance: Ulaanbaatar can be busy, especially during peak travel seasons.
  • Research cultural events: Catch a traditional dance performance or attend an opera at the Mongolia State Opera and Ballet Theater.
  • Visit Khustai National Park: Explore this beautiful park with lakes, forests, and wildlife.