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About this guide
Ulaanbaatar, the vibrant capital city of Mongolia, offers a unique Indigenous and nomadic culture that still thrives alongside modern city life. Travelers will enjoy exploring its fascinating museums, bustling markets, and striking Buddhist monasteries nestled in the vast, open landscapes. The city serves as a gateway to Mongolia’s natural beauty with its rolling steppes and the nearby Gorkhi-Terelj National Park. Friendly locals, delicious traditional cuisine, and energetic festivals make Ulaanbaatar a memorable destination for adventurous souls and culture seekers.
- Best time to travel: June to August (peak season); December to February (off-season); April to May and September to October (shoulder season)
- Time zone: Mongolian Standard Time (MST, UTC +8)
- Currency: Mongolian Tögrög (MNT)
- Language(s): Mongolian, Russian, English
- Noteworthy: Naadam Festival (July), Tsagaan Sar (Mongolian Lunar New Year), Ice Festival (February), Golden Eagle Festival (October), and Naadam Horse Racing
- Best for: Outdoor Adventures, Nature Lovers, Asian History Buffs, Art and Music Festivals
Get Away: Getting To And Around Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia
By Air
Ulaanbaatar’s Chinggis Khaan International Airport connects the city to major Asian hubs, making it the main entry point for international visitors. Domestic flights are also available from here to explore remote regions of Mongolia efficiently. The airport is about 18 miles from the city center, with taxis and shuttle buses available for reliable transfers. Travelers may need extra time during winter months for weather-related delays.
By Car
Car rentals and private drivers are popular options for exploring the city and surrounding countryside at a leisurely pace. Roads in the city center are generally paved, but outside areas can be rough, so a 4x4 vehicle is recommended for off-road adventures. Driving conditions may be challenging due to winter snow and unmarked streets, so local guidance is helpful. Parking is available in central locations, but traffic congestion can occur during peak hours.
By Public Transit
Ulaanbaatar has a growing bus network that’s affordable and widely used by locals, though routes may be confusing for first-time visitors. Buses connect major parts of the city, including key tourist sites and markets, but schedules can be irregular. Fortunately, taxi apps like “UB Cab” and traditional taxis offer a convenient alternative for travelers unfamiliar with the bus system. Keep in mind that it’s best to carry small change for bus fares, as drivers may not provide change.
Explore Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia On Foot
Walking is a great way to experience Ulaanbaatar’s compact city center, where many attractions, restaurants, and shops are within reach. Sidewalks can be uneven or narrow in some areas, so wear comfortable shoes. Exploring on foot also allows for spontaneous stops at well-known street vendors and favorite local cafes. During winter, be cautious of icy patches and check the weather to dress warmly for outdoor strolls.
Quick facts
Mongolian Standard Time (MST, UTC +8)
Mongolian Tögrög (MNT)
Mongolian, Russian, English
Good For
Outdoor Adventures
Nature Lovers
Asian History Buffs
Art and Music Festivals
Keep in mind
- Naadam Festival (July)
- Tsagaan Sar (Mongolian Lunar New Year)
- Ice Festival (February)
- Golden Eagle Festival (October)
- Naadam Horse Racing
Gourmet
Gourmet: Places To Eat In Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia
Namaste Restaurant offers a delicious fusion of Mongolian and Indian cuisine with other dietary options like vegan, gluten-free, and halal. Signature dishes include Butter Chicken, Paneer Pakora, and Chicken Biryani, all crafted with authentic spices and flavors.
The Bull Hot Pot offers an interactive experience where guests cook meat, seafood, and vegetables in delicious broths at the table. The cozy atmosphere complements a variety of kimchis, steamed rice, and savory omelet cake for a memorable hot pot meal.
Los Bandidos, Ulaanbaatar’s first exclusive Mexican and Indian restaurant, offers a unique fusion of bold flavors in a cozy setting in Zaisan Square Mall. Signature dishes include Butter Chicken, Rogan Josh, tacos, and quesadillas—all crafted with authentic spices and fresh ingredients.
Rosewood Kitchen + Enoteca blends warm Mongolian hospitality with authentic Italian family recipes, creating a cozy spot to slow down and savor rustic dishes. With a full menu for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, this is a favorite gathering place for locals, expats, and travelers.
Choijin Temple Restaurant serves delicious Mediterranean cuisine with a modern Mongolian twist in a warm and inviting setting. The menu includes an extensive wine list and dishes like pork spare ribs, rustic chicken flatbread, and pistachio berry cake.
PeaBerry Coffee House is a specialty coffee spot and roasterie in Ulaanbaatar, known for its freshly roasted beans sourced from top-grade coffees around the world. Guests can pair any of the expertly brewed coffees with a fresh breakfast menu for a perfect start to the day.
Play
Play: Things To Do In Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia
Experience authentic Mongolian culture with a hands-on Cooking Class In A Traditional Ger Home just outside of Ulaanbaatar. Learn to make classic dishes like steamed dumplings and noodle soup from scratch while connecting with local hosts.
Take a Private Day Tour Around Mongolia to learn about the region’s rich history at the Gorkhi-Terelj National Park and Genghis Khan Statue Complex. Enjoy personalized insights from a local guide while visiting a nomadic family and taking in scenic views from the Ariyabal meditation temple.
Meet A Mongolian Shaman and Explore Traditions to connect with the ancient spiritual roots during a powerful three-hour session. Visitors learn about the country’s oldest religion and vanishing nomadic traditions from a local guide descended from Central Asian nomads.
Saddle up for a peaceful trek through Terelj’s forest trails, followed by a starlit dinner in the Mongolian rural countryside. This immersive experience offers a glimpse into nomadic life with breathtaking landscapes and celestial views.
Discover Mongolia’s rich past at The National Museum of Mongolian History, where exhibits span from the Paleolithic era to modern times. Visitors get to explore fascinating artifacts like tools, clothing, and religious items that reveal the traditions and evolution of Mongolian culture.
Visit three unique spots, from traditional pubs to modern bars with global flair, during the four-hour Nightlife Bar Hopping Adventure. Enjoy signature cocktails, local drinks, and lively stories from the local host before ending the night with music and dancing.
Taste Mongolian Tea And Cuisine to sample the bold flavors of Mongolia with a local guide including traditional dishes like Buuz, Khuushuur, and Tsuivan. From lamb broth to the stone-heated Khorkhog, this tasting experience offers an authentic bite into Ulaanbaatar’s rich culinary heritage.
Experience the heart of Mongolia’s nomadic heritage at the Mongol Nomadic Show, where music and storytelling bring ancient traditions to life. Ride a camel, taste milk vodka, and enjoy a traditional meal after experiencing authentic customs like dairy-making and ger etiquette.
