The 10 things to do in Oulan-Bator

Visit Oulan-Bator: what are the best things to do and see in this fascinating capital?

A trip to Mongolia imposes a must-see milestone in its capital: Ulan-Bator. First of all, because there is a great chance that you land here by plane to start your journey. It is indeed the place of arrival of international flights, but also the starting point of most excursions in the country.

Located at 1351 meters above sea level , the metropolis has nearly a million and a half inhabitants. It is here, as often in the capitals, that the entire economic, cultural, political and administrative activity of the country is concentrated.

It must be said, when arriving at Ulan-Bator, we are far from the peaceful atmosphere of the Mongolian steppes. It is a city with strong and surprising contrasts, where modernity rivals tradition, giving it a very special atmosphere that is unique to it. You will discover one Soviet culture very strong, competing with Buddhist influence visible in the city.

There are many things to see and do in Ulan-Bator: historic sites, museums, monuments, culture, gastronomy... Not to mention the surroundings that offer many amazing natural treasures! Are you wondering what to do in Ulan-Bator, intriguing and fascinating city? They tell you everything!

1. The monastery of Gandan Khiid

In Oulan-Bator, visit one of the most important Buddhist monasteries in Mongolia: the monastery of Gandan Khiid. It is a main temple, surrounded by several small temples, surrounded by a pregnant and large coloured doors. You can see in the monastery a huge golden Buddha.

Built in 1809 under the name of a yellow monastery (Shar sum), Gandan Khiid today means “the Great Place of Full Joy”. Today it is the theatre of important religious events.

A council, go early in the morning, to attend the monks’ ceremonies, or to see the faithful pray and lay incense.

2. Naran Tuul or Black market

There is nothing better to immerse yourself in a country’s culture than to melt in the middle of the crowd in a local market. It is here that we find all the authenticity of a country or city, and the Naran Tuul market is no exception.

This is the largest market in the capital. You will find everything there : clothes, accessories, tools, furniture, games, food... If you have to go on a trip, this is the ideal place to do a few races before leaving. Nicknamed the black market, it’s a must for Olan-Bator.

3. The Musée du Temple Choijin Lama

Unmissable location of the capital, the Musée du Temple Choijin Lama is a set of six temples. Once a place of worship, he was converted to a museum in the late 1930s, and no longer welcomed any religious practitioner.

You can admire various masks, embroidery, statues of Buddha or paintings of great finesse. The contrast between the architecture of the place and that of the buildings around it helps to give it a particular charm.

4. The Winter Palace

If there is indeed an immanquable in Oulan-Bator, it is the sublime Winter Palace. Built between 1893 and 1903, it was in this place that Bogd Khan, the last king of Mongolia spent 20 years of his life.

The palace consists of 6 distinct temples, with traditional architecture, containing sublime sculptures and paintings representative of Mongolian art.

5. Chinggis Khaan square

You can’t visit Oulan-Bator, without passing through this large central square that bears the name of the founder of the Mongolian Empire: Chinggis Khaan . A statue of the latter throne proudly before the parliament, located north of the square. Faced with it, you can see the tower Blue sky, higher and luxurious building of Olan-Bator. It is also in this place that the National Opera and the Palace of Culture are located.

In the centre you will discover an imposing equestrian statue representing the leader of the Mongolian communist revolution: Sükhbaatar , which proclaimed the country’s independence from China in 1921.

Chinggis Khaan square is a lively and lively place, ideal to observe the daily lives of the inhabitants and to impregnate you with the atmosphere of the city.

6. Buddha Park

Near the Zaisan Memorial, in this park a gigantic golden Buddha of 18 metres . It will even be possible for you to enter his basement to observe the faithful to collect. An absolutely authentic and emotional place of worship!

7. The gallery Altan Khaan

When we think of Mongolia, it is the word tradition that comes to our minds. Likewise, if you think of Mongolian art... Yet, the Altan Khaan Gallery will surprise you with the modernity that emerges from it. Created in 2016, this gallery offers to discover the world of contemporary Mongolian art. A surprising and exciting discovery!

8. Attend a traditional Mongolian show

Another must if you are visiting Oulan-Bator: attending a traditional Mongolian show. Dance, music, or simple curious, you will, however, be subjugated by this mix of folk songs and dances, so particular. A performance takes place every evening at the National Theatre Academy.

9. The National Museum of Mongolia

In this magnificent museum, the whole history of the Mongol Empire is traced through photographs of archaeological sites, costumes, jewellery, dishes and traditional armour.

The National Museum of Mongolia is therefore a must-see place to learn more about Mongolian culture and the various leaders who have succeeded in the country.

10. Local gastronomy

The Mongolian cuisine is a must to discover if you are visiting Oulan-Bator! During your stay, you will have the opportunity to enjoy a lot of meat, mostly goat or sheep.

Roast, grilled or boiled, it usually comes with rice or potatoes. To drag everything, do not miss testing the local drink, the koumis, a traditional jument milk wine.

Surroundings

The main asset of Ulan-Bator is that the city is the starting point for many incredible excursions to discover Mongolia. Some of them are pretty close and easily feasible in a day.

Zaisan Memorial

Built by the Soviets to commemorate the Russian and Mongolian soldiers of the Second World War, this circular memorial is decorated with colourful frescoes reminiscent of friendship between the two peoples. Located on a hill, a 10-minute drive from the centre, the site offers spectacular views of the capital.

The Terelj National Park (or Gorkhi-Terelj)

In just 2 hours of bus, go to meet the Mongolian nature by going to the Terelj National Park. This natural site offers a diversity of absolutely incredible landscape and great beauty. Large areas of green steppes, huge rocky mountains, monasteries and other yaks, goats and cows... Guaranteed change!

Bogd Khan Uul Nature Reserve

If you are an amateur hiking enthusiast or looking for an unforgettable riding experience, head to the Bogd Khan Uul Nature Reserve just 30 minutes from the city centre by car. Located on the Mont du même nom, in Töv’s aïmag, this park is in fact a protected area classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Among the protected animal species of the reserve are muskox, zibeline or Arctic hare.

You can discover in this sublime park, the Buddhist Monastery of Manzushir, or choose to leave on the Tsetseegiin Uul mountain, highest to more than 2,250 m .

How do I get to Ulan-Bator?

Are you visiting Oulan-Bator and wondering how to get there? Here are our tips:

By plane, departure from France

It is no surprise if you are told that to come and visit Oulan-Bator from France, you will have to fly. Know that there is no no direct flight to Mongolia . You will have to make a stopover that will depend on the company you choose. Count about 9 hours in total. To get the best rates according to your dates, go to our favorite flight comparison, Skyscanner .

Olan-Bator International Airport – Gengis Khan is located about 18 km southwest of the capital. To get to downtown, there is a shuttle that leaves every 30 minutes. However, the simplest rests the taxi that will take you to the center in less than 15 minutes. A tip, make sure to make sure choose a taxi equipped with a counter to avoid any bad surprise on arrival.

In Trans-Siberian, departure from China or Russia

If you are in a neighbouring country, and in a long-term journey, it is an experience not to be missed: a trip aboard the Trans-Siberian. A true legend, this train leaving Moscow, travels 7 600 km through Russia, Mongolia and China.

Where to stay in Oulan-Bator?

If you choose to visit Oulan-Bator, no worries to accommodate you. In a good capital that respects itself, the city offers a wide range of accommodations. A reservation in advance is nevertheless recommended, to avoid unpleasant surprises.

For small budgets, there are “boards” – the equivalent of guesthouses or youth hostels – offering dormitory beds, and individual rooms at low prices. Do not expect high-end comfort, but the atmosphere is often very friendly.

Know as well 50€ about, you can spend the night in comfortable hotels. Finally, for the biggest budgets, you will be delighted to learn that the city has internationally renowned hotel chains for a little more luxurious nights.

To find the best prices, do not hesitate to search a Compare hotels online.

You are now ready to go to Oulan-Bator! So don’t wait anymore, and head to the Mongolian capital for an unusual stay!