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In Mongolia · Ulaanbaatar

Ulaanbaatar travel guide

Mongolia's capital is where almost every trip starts: monasteries and museums, great food, nightlife, and the gateway to Terelj and the steppe. Here's what to see, where to stay and how to get around.

Gandan Monastery

West of the centre · Mornings for chanting

Mongolia's largest working monastery, home to a 26 m golden statue of Avalokiteshvara. Come at around 9–10 am to hear the monks.

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Sükhbaatar Square & Parliament

City centre

The heart of Ulaanbaatar, with the giant seated Chinggis Khaan statue in front of the Government Palace. Most hotels and restaurants are within walking distance.

Chinggis Khaan National Museum

Near the square

The big modern history museum: from prehistoric Mongolia through the Mongol Empire to today. Allow 2–3 hours.

Central Museum of Mongolian Dinosaurs

City centre

Home of the famous Tarbosaurus skeleton returned to Mongolia, plus fossils from the Gobi's Flaming Cliffs.

Choijin Lama Temple & Bogd Khan Palace

Centre and south of the city

Two beautifully preserved temple complexes with Buddhist art; the Bogd Khan's winter palace was the home of Mongolia's last king.

Zaisan Memorial

South of the city · Sunset

A hilltop monument with the best view over Ulaanbaatar and the Tuul river valley.

Traditional performance

Several theatres · Evenings, mostly summer

Throat singing (khöömii), the horse-head fiddle, long song and contortion in a one-hour show; a must on your first night.

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Naran Tuul market & cashmere

East of the centre

The huge 'black market' for felt boots, ger furniture and everything else (watch your bag). Buy cashmere at factory outlets in town.

Food & nightlife

Around Seoul Street and the centre

Try buuz and khuushuur in a local guanz, Mongolian hot pot, Korean barbecue, craft beer and lively bars and clubs.

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Day trips from Ulaanbaatar

1–2 hours away

Terelj National Park and Turtle Rock, the Chinggis Khaan Statue Complex, wild takhi horses at Hustai, or a nomad family visit.

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Good to know

Getting around

Traffic is heavy at rush hour; use a ride app or walk in the centre. See Taxi apps for details.

Where to stay

Stay near Sükhbaatar Square to walk to most sights; there are options from hostels to international hotels.

Airport

Chinggis Khaan International Airport is about 50 km south: allow an hour by taxi or airport bus.

Weather

Ulaanbaatar is the world's coldest capital: −20 °C in January, around 20–25 °C in July. Winter air can be smoggy.