Visit Ulan Bator in Mongolia | Best Attractions & Things To Do

Ulan Bator, meaning "Red Hero," is the capital of Mongolia. With a population of around 1.2 million, it is also the largest city in the country. Since it has only recently begun industrializing, Ulan Bator is a mixture of Mongolian traditionalism, Soviet housing, and purely Eastern aesthetics.

Reasons to travel to Ulan Bator

While the city may seem stark at first, there are numerous treasures waiting for the traveler. As traditionalists, Mongolians love their capital, they understand that it is not an Asian beauty, but in their hearts, they are aware of the city's history, culture, and many struggles.

Foreigners who take the time to get to know the faces that are hidden behind the gray walls will discover hospitable and warm-hearted people. While exploring the city from different angles you will probably get to witness the abject poverty of many of the ex-nomads who in recent years have come to the city to find jobs.

See the Bogd Kahn Museum and experience the beautiful green palace in person while learning about Mongolia's past, many of the collections feature a rare insight into Mongolian history. Two major monasteries - the Choijin Lama Monastery and Gandan Monastery - are top priorities for travelers staying in Ulan Bator.

Both monasteries come complete with museums, artifacts, and the chance to explore the spirituality that prevails in modern Mongolia. The temples themselves represent a purely Asian motif and are a perfect representation of Mongolia's rich cultural heritage.

The Zaisan Memorial celebrates the joining of Russians and Mongols during both major world wars, and its location provides a rich view over the vast cityscape. The International Intellectual Museum can be an enjoyable outing for families looking to explore Mongolian puzzles, games, and toys.

Peace Avenue is the main street that stretches from east to west through the center, it is the main street where you can shop or pop in one of the many restaurants to try the amazing Mongolian cuisine. The street also passes by the southern edge of the central Chinggis Square.

To enhance your Ulan Bator trip, you can also attend one of Ulan Bator's numerous festivals that take place throughout the year. One of the biggest events is Naadam, a sporting event, taking place in July.

Best Things to Do in Ulan Bator

Touch the country's history in the National Museum of Mongolia
Stop by and take a couple of photos near the Genghis Khan Statue
Taste the color of Asia, trying some national delicacies

Top Attractions in Ulan Bator

Gandan Monastery, Ulan Bator

Gandan Monastery, Ulan Bator, Mongolia

Translated as the "Great Place of Complete Joy", the Gandan Monastery is a Tibetan monastery with numerous monks.

Gorkhi-Terelj National Park, Mongolia

Gorkhi-Terelj National Park, Ulan Bator, Mongolia

Trek up to the glacial waters, relax in the hot springs and get a good nights sleep in a yurt deep in the heart of Mongolia.

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All Attractions in Ulan Bator

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sight Gandan Monastery, Ulan Bator, Mongolia

sight Gorkhi-Terelj National Park, Ulan Bator, Mongolia