Ulan Bator, Mongolia

The Ultimate Guide to Traveling in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia

Ulaanbaatar, the capital city of Mongolia, is a unique blend of traditional and modern culture. As a traveler, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to experience the country’s rich history, stunning natural beauty, and vibrant atmosphere.

Places to Visit

1. Gandan Monastery

  • Address: South Chingeltei district
  • Hours: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM (April-October), 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM (November-March)
  • Admission Fee: MNT 3,000 (approximately USD 1.50)
  • Description: One of the most important Buddhist monasteries in Mongolia, Gandan is a must-visit for anyone interested in culture and spirituality.

2. National Museum of Mongolia

  • Address: South Chingeltei district
  • Hours: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM (April-October), 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM (November-March)
  • Admission Fee: MNT 3,000 (approximately USD 1.50)
  • Description: This museum showcases the country’s rich history and cultural heritage.

3. Zaisan Memorial

  • Address: South Chingeltei district
  • Hours: 24/7
  • Admission Fee: Free
  • Description: A war memorial with a panoramic view of the city, making it an ideal spot for sunset.

4. Central Market (Naran Tuul)

  • Address: South Chingeltei district
  • Hours: Daily from dawn till dusk
  • Admission Fee: Free
  • Description: A bustling marketplace where you can find everything from fresh produce to clothing and souvenirs.

5. Bogd Khaan Museum

  • Address: South Chingeltei district
  • Hours: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM (April-October), 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM (November-March)
  • Admission Fee: MNT 3,000 (approximately USD 1.50)
  • Description: A museum showcasing the life and reign of Bogd Khaan, Mongolia’s last emperor.

6. Ulaanbaatar City Museum

  • Address: South Chingeltei district
  • Hours: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM (April-October), 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM (November-March)
  • Admission Fee: MNT 3,000 (approximately USD 1.50)
  • Description: A museum dedicated to the history of Ulaanbaatar and its people.

7. Hustai National Park

  • Address: About 100 km southwest of Ulaanbaatar
  • Hours: Daily from dawn till dusk
  • Admission Fee: MNT 10,000 (approximately USD 5)
  • Description: A protected area home to the reintroduced Przewalski’s horses and a variety of wildlife.

8. Genghis Khan Statue Complex

  • Address: About 30 km south of Ulaanbaatar
  • Hours: Daily from dawn till dusk
  • Admission Fee: MNT 10,000 (approximately USD 5)
  • Description: A large statue complex commemorating the founder of Mongolia and a great place to take photos.

9. Tuvkhun Hermitage

  • Address: About 70 km west of Ulaanbaatar
  • Hours: Daily from dawn till dusk
  • Admission Fee: Free, but donations are appreciated
  • Description: A peaceful hermitage where you can experience the tranquility of Mongolian nature.

10. The Zaluuchuudal Summer Palace

  • Address: About 30 km south of Ulaanbaatar
  • Hours: Daily from dawn till dusk
  • Admission Fee: Free, but donations are appreciated
  • Description: A beautiful summer palace that showcases the best of Mongolian architecture.

Activities

1. Horseback Riding

  • Cost: MNT 10,000 - 20,000 (approximately USD 5-10) per hour
  • Description: Explore the surrounding countryside on horseback and experience the thrill of Mongolian horsemanship.

2. Visiting a Local Family

  • Cost: Free or MNT 1,000 - 2,000 (approximately USD 0.50-1)
  • Description: Experience the warmth and hospitality of Mongolian families by visiting them in their homes.

3. Shopping at the Black Market (Naran Tuul)

  • Cost: Free
  • Description: A bustling marketplace where you can find everything from fresh produce to clothing and souvenirs.

4. Visiting a Local Naadam Festival

  • Cost: MNT 5,000 - 10,000 (approximately USD 2.50-5) per person
  • Description: Experience the excitement of Mongolian culture by attending a traditional Naadam festival.

Where to Eat

1. Cafe Central

  • Address: Peace Avenue
  • Hours: Daily from dawn till dusk
  • Admission Fee: Free, but food and drinks are paid for separately
  • Description: A cozy cafe serving delicious coffee and pastries.

2. Green Tea House

  • Address: South Chingeltei district
  • Hours: Daily from dawn till dusk
  • Admission Fee: Free, but food and drinks are paid for separately
  • Description: A peaceful spot serving traditional Mongolian tea and snacks.

3. The Coffee House

  • Address: Peace Avenue
  • Hours: Daily from dawn till dusk
  • Admission Fee: Free, but food and drinks are paid for separately
  • Description: A modern coffee shop with a wide range of coffee and pastries.

4. Khan’s Palace Restaurant

  • Address: South Chingeltei district
  • Hours: Daily from dawn till dusk
  • Admission Fee: Free, but food and drinks are paid for separately
  • Description: A traditional Mongolian restaurant serving authentic dishes.

5. Tumen Ekh

  • Address: South Chingeltei district
  • Hours: Daily from dawn till dusk
  • Admission Fee: Free, but food and drinks are paid for separately
  • Description: A modern restaurant serving international cuisine.

Where to Stay

1. Hotel Tumen Ekh

  • Address: Peace Avenue
  • Price Range: MNT 50,000 - 100,000 (approximately USD 25-50) per night
  • Description: A modern hotel with comfortable rooms and excellent service.

2. Blue Sky Hotel

  • Address: South Chingeltei district
  • Price Range: MNT 30,000 - 60,000 (approximately USD 15-30) per night
  • Description: A cozy hotel with a peaceful atmosphere and friendly staff.

3. Hotel Genghis Khan

  • Address: South Chingeltei district
  • Price Range: MNT 20,000 - 40,000 (approximately USD 10-20) per night
  • Description: A budget-friendly hotel with basic rooms and friendly staff.

4. Hotel Oasis

  • Address: South Chingeltei district
  • Price Range: MNT 15,000 - 30,000 (approximately USD 7.50-15) per night
  • Description: A simple hotel with basic rooms and a peaceful atmosphere.

5. Ger Camp

  • Address: About 10 km south of Ulaanbaatar
  • Price Range: MNT 5,000 - 10,000 (approximately USD 2.50-5) per night
  • Description: A traditional Mongolian ger camp where you can experience the simple life.

Things to Know

1. Language

  • Official Language: Mongolian
  • Commonly Spoken Languages: Mongolian, Russian, and English (although English is not widely spoken)

2. Currency

  • Currency: Mongolian Tugrik (MNT)
  • Exchange Rate: Approximately 1 USD 3,000 MNT

3. Climate

  • Summer (June-August): Hot and dry with temperatures reaching up to 30°C
  • Winter (December-February): Cold and snowy with temperatures dropping as low as -20°C

4. Safety

  • Petty Crime: Pickpocketing and theft are common in crowded areas, so be careful with your belongings.
  • Traffic: Be careful when crossing the road as traffic can be chaotic.

5. Health and Hygiene

  • Tap Water: Not safe for drinking
  • Food Safety: Avoid eating from street vendors or eating expired food.

Getting Around

1. Taxi

  • Cost: MNT 2,000 - 5,000 (approximately USD 1-2.50) per ride
  • Description: A cheap and convenient way to get around the city.

2. Minibus

  • Cost: MNT 500 - 1,000 (approximately USD 0.25-0.50) per ride
  • Description: A cheap and efficient way to get around the city.

3. Walking

  • Free
  • Description: The best way to experience the city’s sights and sounds on foot.

Tips and Tricks

1. Learn Some Mongolian Phrases

  • Greetings: “Sain baina uu?” (Hello) and “Bayasaa” (Goodbye)
  • Useful Phrases: “Tsetsegiin tsagaan zurag” (Thank you) and “Khustai” (Welcome)

2. Be Respectful of Local Customs

  • Remove Shoes: Before entering a traditional Mongolian ger or home.
  • Dress Modestly: Avoid revealing clothing, especially when visiting temples or attending cultural events.

3. Haggling is Expected

  • Negotiate Prices: When shopping at markets or buying goods from street vendors.

4. Don’t Miss the Naadam Festival

  • Attend a Naadam Festival: Experience the excitement of Mongolian culture by attending a traditional festival.

5. Try Local Cuisine

  • Try Traditional Dishes: Experience the flavors and aromas of Mongolian cuisine by trying traditional dishes like “Buuz” and “Khuushuur”.