Arriving in Ulaanbaatar for the first time felt like a sensory jolt. Glass-fronted towers caught the pale morning light, Soviet-era apartment blocks stood in quiet rows, and centuries-old monasteries anchored the city in tradition. Office workers hurried past with takeaway coffees, monks in saffron robes moved slowly toward temple gates, and the aroma of sizzling khuushuur drifted from street stalls. At one point, I even watched a herder in a traditional deel walk past a café serving oat-milk lattes.
For many travelers, Ulaanbaatar is the gateway to a wider Mongolia itinerary, whether that means the Gobi Desert, the steppe, or the monasteries and valleys of Orkhon valley in central Mongolia. But after spending several days in the capital, I realized it deserves more than a rushed overnight stop. One day gives you a glimpse. Two days lets you understand its contrasts. This Ulaanbaatar travel guide and 2-day itinerary draws on my own time in the city, combining the essential sights with a more local feel.
If you are visiting Mongolia for the first time, I recommend giving Ulaanbaatar at least two full days. That is enough time to see the city’s major museums, monasteries, viewpoints, and a few local spots without turning your stay into a rushed checklist. This guide focuses on exactly that: how to spend 2 days in Ulaanbaatar well.
Table of Contents
Ulaanbaatar in 2 Days: Quick Itinerary Overview
If you only have two days in Ulaanbaatar, this is the best way to structure your time.
Day 1: Sukhbaatar Square, Choijin Lama Temple, Chinggis Khaan National Museum, Zanabazar Museum of Fine Arts, Gandan Monastery, and sunset at Zaisan Memorial.
Day 2: Bogd Khaan Palace Museum, Narantuul Market or the State Department Store, one additional museum, and a folk performance or jazz club in the evening.
With 3 days in Ulaanbaatar: add a full-day trip to Hustai National Park or Gorkhi-Terelj National Park.
Brief History of Ulaanbaatar
Ulaanbaatar began in 1639 as a nomadic Buddhist monastery that moved across the steppe before settling near the Tuul River in 1778. Then known as Urga, it became both a religious center and a key trade post between Russia and China. By the early 20th century, camel caravans, Chinese merchants, and Russian officials all converged here.
After Mongolia declared independence in 1911, the city was renamed Niislel Khüree. Following the 1921 revolution led by Damdin Sükhbaatar, socialism took hold, and in 1924 the city became Ulaanbaatar, meaning “Red Hero.” Soviet influence reshaped the capital through wide boulevards, concrete apartment blocks, and state buildings, while monasteries were suppressed or closed.
Since Mongolia’s democratic revolution in 1990, Ulaanbaatar has transformed again. Monasteries reopened, glass towers rose above socialist-era neighborhoods, and ger districts expanded on the hills surrounding the city. Today, it remains a place of sharp contrasts, where nomadic heritage, Buddhism, Soviet legacies, and rapid urban change all coexist.
Best Things to Do in Ulaanbaatar City Center
Sukhbaatar Square – The Heart of the City
I began my morning in Ulaanbaatar at Sukhbaatar Square, the symbolic heart of the city and one of the most important places to visit in Mongolia’s capital. Standing there, I could feel the weight of history. The square is named after Damdin Sukhbaatar, the revolutionary leader who declared Mongolia’s independence from China in 1921, and his equestrian statue rises proudly in the center, framed by the grand Government Palace.
I took in the monumental statues of Chinggis Khan, his son Ögedei, and grandson Kublai. They feel like a bold statement of Mongolia’s imperial legacy and the pride many Mongolians still take in that history. Around me, the city’s cultural landmarks framed the square: the State Opera and Ballet Theatre, the Central Cultural Palace, and the Mongolian Stock Exchange.
Arriving early in the morning meant I had the space almost to myself. The soft light made the pale stone glow, perfect for photography. I could imagine how different it must feel in July, when rehearsals for the Naadam Festival fill the square with color, music, and movement. In winter, I was told, the openness of the square makes it striking but also bitingly cold, the kind of place where the wind reminds you exactly where you are on the map.
Choijin Lama Temple – Mongolia’s Spiritual Art
From Sukhbaatar Square, I walked toward the Choijin Lama Temple Museum, one of the most fascinating places to visit in Ulaanbaatar if you want to understand Mongolia’s spiritual heritage. Built between 1904 and 1908 for the state oracle, Choijin Lama Luvsankhaidav, the complex is a rare survivor of Mongolia’s early 20th century religious architecture. As I stepped through the gates, I noticed how the design blended Mongolian, Tibetan, and Chinese influences, with ornate rooflines, brightly painted beams, and intricate wood carvings that seemed to tell their own stories.
Inside, I wandered slowly through rooms holding more than 6,000 Buddhist artifacts. In the main temple, I stood before an 18th-century statue of Buddha Sakyamuni, its calm expression drawing me in. The Yidam Temple displayed detailed sculptures of tantric deities, while the Zuu Temple held papier mâché Buddhas representing the past, present, and future. My favorite part was the collection of cham dance masks, each one vivid and expressive. Knowing these masks are worn in ceremonial dances meant to drive away evil spirits made them feel alive with meaning.
Visiting the Choijin Lama Temple Museum early in my trip helped me understand how visible Buddhist traditions still are in everyday Mongolian life. It felt noticeably calmer than the streets outside, and that contrast made the visit memorable.
Opening hours: Monday to Friday 10:00-17:00. Check current times before visiting, as opening hours can change. This applies to all sights.
Museums in Ulaanbaatar Worth Visiting
Chinggis Khaan Museum – Journey through Mongolia’s Epic Imperial Past
The Chinggis Khaan National Museum was one of the highlights of my time in Ulaanbaatar. It is the city’s most impressive museum for understanding Mongolia’s imperial past, with floor after floor dedicated to early steppe states, the rise of Chinggis Khaan, the Mongol Empire, and later periods of Mongolian history. I ended up spending far longer here than planned, partly because the museum is large, but also because it gives such important context before traveling further through the country.
The building itself is rich in symbolism. The main gates are shaped like a gerege, the traditional messenger’s pass, and the upper structure resembles a Mongolian ger topped with a golden falcon. Soil from ten sacred mountains and objects from all 21 provinces were placed in the foundations as part of a blessing ritual. Inside, each floor presents a different era, from the Hunnu Empire to the Great Mongol Empire and the later khanates, using immersive galleries, rare manuscripts, royal regalia, and interactive exhibits. Visitors typically spend two to three hours exploring. If you only visit one museum in Ulaanbaatar, this would be my pick.
Opening hours: Wednesday to Monday 09:00-17:00
Zanabazar Museum of Fine Arts – Masterpieces of Mongolian Culture
One of my favourite stops in Ulaanbaatar was the Zanabazar Museum of Fine Arts. It is named after Zanabazar, Mongolia’s first spiritual leader and a remarkably talented artist. The museum is a treasure for anyone interested in Mongolian art and history. Standing in front of his serene White Tara sculpture, I was struck by the delicate features and the sense of calm it radiated. The Five Dhyani Buddhas were equally captivating, each one a masterpiece of Buddhist art that seemed to hold centuries of devotion in its form.
As I moved through the galleries, I paused at the vibrant tsam masks and intricate thangka paintings. Marzan Sharav’s A Day in Mongolia made me smile with its playful and detailed scenes of everyday nomadic life. The museum’s layout made it easy to follow the evolution of Mongolian art from ancient times to the present. Before leaving, I picked up a beautifully printed art book from the gift shop to take home.
Open daily 09:00-18:00
Natural History Museum of Mongolia – Dinosaurs and the Gobi Desert
I have always been fascinated by dinosaurs, so the Natural History Museum of Mongolia was high on my list. The paleontology section did not disappoint. Seeing a nearly complete Tarbosaurus skeleton up close was awe-inspiring, and the fossilised dinosaur eggs from the Gobi Desert were just as fascinating. These discoveries have helped scientists understand the link between dinosaurs and modern birds.
The museum also took me through Mongolia’s geology, flora, fauna and anthropology. I lingered over displays of snow leopards, wild horses and rare birds, imagining what it would be like to see them in the wild. If you are planning to visit the Gobi Desert later in your trip, this museum is the perfect preview of the landscapes and wildlife you might encounter.
Open daily 09:00-17:30
National Museum of Mongolia – The Country’s Story in One Place
Before heading into the countryside, I spent a couple of hours at the National Museum of Mongolia. Walking through its halls felt like travelling through time. I started with Stone Age tools and petroglyphs, then moved into the era of the Mongol Empire, the Qing dynasty period and the socialist era.
The ethnographic section was a highlight for me. Seeing the traditional costumes of Mongolia’s many ethnic groups up close, each with its own patterns, colours and accessories, gave me a deeper appreciation for the country’s cultural diversity. By the time I left, I felt I had a much richer understanding of Mongolia’s history, which made the rest of my journey even more meaningful.
Opening hours: Tuesday to Saturday 09:00-18:00
Mongolian National Modern Art Gallery – Showcasing The Evolution Of Mongolian Art
The Mongolian National Modern Art Gallery in Ulaanbaatar showcases the country’s rich artistic evolution from the mid‑20th century to today. Established in 1991 after separating from the Fine Arts Museum, it houses more than 4,000 works, with rotating displays of paintings, sculptures and mixed media. Themes range from nomadic life and sweeping steppe landscapes to bold contemporary interpretations of tradition. Highlights include Ochir Tsevegjav’s celebrated The Fight of the Stallions and Soviet‑era romanticism rendered in thangka style. Located inside the Cultural Palace, the gallery also hosts temporary exhibitions and international collaborations, making it a hub for Mongolia’s creative expression.
Opening hours: Monday to Friday 09:00-18:00; Saturday and Sunday 10:00-17:00
International Intellectual Museum – A World of Puzzles, Play and Genius
The International Intellectual Museum is one of the city’s more unusual attractions, especially if you are traveling with kids or want something interactive. It focuses on puzzles, chess sets, brainteasers, and hands-on displays rather than traditional history exhibits, which makes it a fun change of pace.
Opening hours: Monday to Saturday 10:00-18:00
Must-See Ulaanbaatar Sights Beyond the City Center
Gandantegchinlen Monastery – Living Buddhism in Ulaanbaatar
In the afternoon I made my way to Gandantegchinlen Monastery, known to locals simply as Gandan Monastery. It is the largest and most important monastery in Ulaanbaatar and has been a centre of Buddhist life for more than two centuries. Founded in 1809, it was the only monastery allowed to remain open during the communist period, which makes it a powerful symbol of resilience for Mongolian Buddhism.
As I stepped through the gates, the scent of incense drifted through the air and the sound of prayer wheels turning mixed with the quiet murmur of visitors. The highlight for me was standing before the 26.5 meter (87 ft) gilded statue of Avalokitesvara, called Migjid Janraisig in Mongolian. Knowing it had been rebuilt in the 1990s with donations from across the country made it even more moving.
Although I visited in the afternoon, I learned that mornings are the best time to hear the deep, resonant chanting of monks during prayer services. Even without the chanting, the atmosphere was both peaceful and powerful, and I left feeling grounded and connected to the spiritual side of Ulaanbaatar.
Open daily 09:00-17:00
Geser Sum Monastery – A Hidden Spot with an Interesting History
Geser Sum fascinated me with its rare fusion of Mongolian Buddhism, Taoist influences and shamanistic motifs. Built in the late 19th to early 20th century with support from Chinese merchants, many from Shanxi province, it reflects both Chinese architectural traditions and local spiritual beliefs. The monastery was later dedicated to King Gesar, the legendary warrior-hero of Tibetan and Mongolian epic poetry, whose image still appears in murals and sculptures.
Its layout follows a traditional Chinese courtyard plan with sweeping tiled roofs, brightly painted beams and guardian statues at the entrance. Inside, Tibetan Buddhist deities share space with symbols drawn from Mongolia’s shamanic heritage, creating a layered spiritual atmosphere. Remarkably, Geser Sum survived the 1930s communist purges because it was converted into a rehearsal hall for the Border Army Song and Dance Ensemble.
After 1990, it returned to religious use and today remains one of Ulaanbaatar’s most distinctive temples. Visitors who take time to explore beyond the main hall will find hidden courtyards, prayer wheels tucked into quiet corners and intricate woodwork that reveals the skill of artisans from more than a century ago. Compared with the city’s larger monasteries, it feels quieter and more tucked away, which is part of its appeal.
Bogd Khaan Palace Museum – Stepping into Mongolia’s Royal Past
After leaving Gandan Monastery, I made my way south to the Bogd Khaan Palace Museum, one of the most fascinating historical sites in Ulaanbaatar. This was once the winter residence of the eighth Bogd Jebtsundamba Khutughtu, later crowned Bogd Khan, who ruled Mongolia in the early twentieth century. Passing through the gates, I felt as though I had stepped back in time.
The complex includes several ornate temples and the main palace building, each decorated with brightly painted woodwork and intricate carvings that reveal the craftsmanship of the period. Inside, I wandered slowly through rooms that displayed the Khan’s personal belongings. I saw ceremonial robes embroidered with gold thread, elaborate thrones, gifts from foreign dignitaries and even his hunting trophies.
The combination of religious artifacts and royal possessions painted a vivid picture of how Mongolia’s spiritual and political life were closely connected during his reign. Standing in the quiet courtyards, with the faint scent of incense still in the air, I could almost picture the Bogd Khan himself walking between the buildings on a crisp winter morning.
Opening hours: Thursday to Monday 09:00-18:00
Zaisan Memorial – Panoramic Views and Soviet History
In the late afternoon I made my way to the Zaisan Memorial, which sits high on a hill in the southern part of Ulaanbaatar. Built by the Soviets in 1956, it was created to honour Mongolian and Soviet soldiers who lost their lives in World War II. As I climbed toward the monument, I could see the massive circular mural from a distance. Up close, the artwork told stories of Mongolia and the USSR’s shared history, from the 1921 revolution to the victory over Nazi Germany and even the space flight of Mongolia’s first cosmonaut.
The climb to the top was more than 300 steps, and I took my time, stopping to catch my breath and look back at the city unfolding below me. When I finally reached the summit, the view was worth every step. Ulaanbaatar stretched out in all directions, the Tuul River winding through the city, and the surrounding mountains glowing in the late afternoon light. I stayed until sunset, watching the sky shift from gold to deep orange, and felt like I was seeing the capital from its most spectacular vantage point.
Celebrate Naadam in Ulaanbaatar
If you visit Ulaanbaatar in July, Naadam can completely change the atmosphere of the city. Sukhbaatar Square fills with ceremony, traditional dress, and festival energy, while wrestling, archery, and horse racing events draw crowds from across the country. If your dates line up, it is worth planning around.
Check out my full Naadam festival guide that explains how to attend, where to buy tickets, and how to make the most of Naadam in Ulaanbaatar.
Where to Shop in Ulaanbaatar
Best Shops & Markets for Buying Cashmere in Ulaanbaatar
Mongolia is world-famous for its high-quality cashmere, and Ulaanbaatar is the best place to shop for it. One of my favorite stops was Gobi Mongolian Cashmere flagship store (open daily 10:00-20:00), a trusted brand offering beautifully made sweaters, scarves, and coats that combine traditional craftsmanship with modern design. Prices are often better than what you would find in Europe or the United States, especially for high-quality pieces. I found it a good place to buy something practical rather than just another souvenir. You can also check out GOYO Cashmere factory, known for its modern, fashion-forward collections. Whether you’re hunting for a stylish wardrobe upgrade or a meaningful souvenir, shopping cashmere in Ulaanbaatar is an experience you won’t want to miss.
Getting Lost in the State Department Store
The State Department Store, known locally as Ikh Delguur or “big shop,” is one of Ulaanbaatar’s landmarks and a symbol of Mongolia’s modern history. Established in 1921, the same year Mongolia secured its independence, the store was built with Soviet assistance and became the country’s first major shopping center. For locals, the date on its façade is a reminder of the revolution that shaped Mongolia’s identity, while for visitors it marks the beginning of a new era in the capital.
It is one of Ulaanbaatar’s best-known shopping landmarks. It is a convenient stop if you want to browse cashmere, souvenirs, books, cosmetics, and snacks all in one place. Even if you do not plan to shop much, it is an easy and very central stop.
Bargaining with Local Vendors at Narantuul Market
Narantuul Market in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia is the city’s busiest bazaar and a must‑visit for travelers who want to experience local life. Known as the Black Market, it stretches across endless stalls selling traditional deels, horse saddles, carpets, electronics, and souvenirs. Bargaining is expected, and learning how to negotiate with vendors is part of the adventure. Prices start high, but with patience and a friendly smile you can secure fair deals on authentic goods.
Walking through the market gives you a raw look at daily commerce in Ulaanbaatar and makes it one of the most memorable places to shop in Mongolia. Go during the day, keep an eye on your belongings, and do not expect fixed prices.
Things to Do in Ulaanbaatar at Night (Bars, Jazz Clubs, Folk Shows)
Ulaanbaatar is more interesting after dark than many first-time visitors expect. If you are staying two days, I would strongly recommend using one evening for either a folk performance or live music.
Drama Theater in Ulaanbaatar
I walked to the National Academic Drama Theatre, a historic venue that has been part of Mongolia’s performing arts scene for decades. On another evening, I might have chosen the State Opera and Ballet Theatre, a beautiful neoclassical building on Sukhbaatar Square where you can see both world‑class productions and Mongolian operas and ballets that weave traditional music and dance into the performance.
Mongolian Folk Performances
That night, I had tickets for the Mongolian National Folk Song and Dance Ensemble. For ninety minutes, I was immersed in the sounds of throat singing, the haunting melodies of the morin khuur, and the energy of traditional dances performed in colourful costumes. The live orchestra filled the hall, and I found myself completely drawn into the rhythm and movement on stage. Another excellent option is the Tumen-Ekh Folk Song and Dance Ensemble, which performs daily at 18:00 and is known for its award‑winning blend of folk songs, traditional dances, contortion, and instrumental music that captures the spirit of Mongolia’s nomadic heritage.
Here is a great video that gives you an idea:
Experiencing Ulaanbaatar Nightlife
For something more casual, I recommend exploring Ulaanbaatar’s growing nightlife scene. The city has lively bars, intimate live music venues, and late‑night cafes where locals and travelers mingle. A great place to start is the Fat Cat Jazz Club Ulaanbaatar, an intimate spot just south of Sukhbaatar Square where you can enjoy nightly live jazz in a warm, welcoming atmosphere. If you prefer something more upbeat, head to River Sounds Live Music Club, which hosts local bands and singers across genres, from Mongolian folk to rock, in a relaxed setting that draws both residents and visitors.
More Buddhist Monasteries Worth Visiting
I also explored some of the monasteries beyond the main city sights. Each one offered a different perspective on Mongolia’s spiritual traditions and history.
Samya Khiid Monastery
I found Samya Khiid to be one of the most peaceful places I visited in Mongolia’s capital. It is less visited than other monasteries, which meant I could wander slowly through the grounds without distraction. The quiet atmosphere made it easy to appreciate the details of the architecture and the gentle rhythm of monastic life.
Open daily 10:00-15:30
Dashchoilin Monastery
Dashchoilin Monastery, or Zuun Khuree Dashchoilin, is one of Ulaanbaatar’s most important Buddhist monasteries and a rare survivor of the 20th century religious purges. Its origins date back to the 17th century as part of the Great Khuree monastic complex, once a thriving centre of learning and worship. Dedicated to Dondogdulam, queen of the eighth Bogd Gegeen, it was the last temple built before the communist era. In the late 1930s, much of the complex was destroyed or repurposed, with surviving buildings used for secular purposes. Revived in 1990 under Lama Ch. Dambajav, the monastery now houses over 100 monks and hosts annual events such as the Maitreya procession and Tsam masked dance, preserving Mongolia’s spiritual traditions.
Open daily 09:00-17:00
Naropa Monastery
Naropa Monastery was a quiet retreat from the city’s energy. I spent time here simply sitting and listening to the wind in the prayer flags. It is the kind of place where you can reflect without feeling rushed, and it gave me a deeper appreciation for the contemplative side of Mongolian Buddhism.
Aglag Buteeliin Khiid Monastery
Around 100 kilometres northwest of Ulaanbaatar, Aglag combines monastery architecture with forest trails, rock carvings, and panoramic views, making it one of the more unusual spiritual day trips from the capital.
Open daily 09:00-18:00
Manzushir Monastery
Set in the Bogd Khan Mountain area, Manzushir combines monastery ruins, a small museum, forest scenery, and an easy escape from the city.
Best Day Trips from Ulaanbaatar
Day Trip to Hustai National Park
Hustai National Park is one of the best places to visit in Mongolia if you want to see wildlife and steppe scenery without traveling far from Ulaanbaatar. Located about 100 kilometers from the capital, the park is famous for the reintroduction of the Przewalski’s horse, also called the Takhi, which is the last truly wild horse species in the world. Watching these stocky, sandy‑colored horses grazing on the open steppe is a highlight for many visitors. The park is also home to red deer, marmots, wolves, and more than 200 species of birds, making it a top destination for Mongolia wildlife tours. Landscapes change throughout the day, from golden grasslands to rugged mountain ridges, creating excellent opportunities for hiking and photography. With ger camps close to the entrance, Hustai National Park offers a convenient mix of nature, culture, and conservation that fits easily into most Mongolia travel itineraries.
👉 I recommend booking a guided day trip to Hustai National Park from Ulaanbaatar for the best experience.
Day Trip to Gorkhi-Terelj National Park & Chinggis Khaan Statue Complex
A day trip to the Chinggis Khaan Statue Complex and Gorkhi‑Terelj National Park is one of the most popular day trips from Ulaanbaatar. About an hour from the capital, the 40‑meter (131-ft) equestrian statue of Chinggis Khaan rises above the steppe, and visitors can climb inside the monument for panoramic views across the surrounding plains. From there, the route continues into Gorkhi‑Terelj National Park, known for its dramatic granite formations, wide valleys, and riverside meadows that are perfect for hiking, horseback riding, and photography. Highlights include Turtle Rock and Aryabal Monastery, both easily reached within the park. Blending cultural landmarks with striking natural scenery, this day trip is an excellent way to experience Mongolia’s history and landscapes in a single excursion.
👉 I highly recommend this guided day trip to Gorkhi‑Terelj National Park and the Chinggis Khaan Statue Complex from Ulaanbaatar.
Ulaanbaatar with Kids: Family-Friendly Activities
Ulaanbaatar is manageable with kids if you keep expectations realistic and avoid trying to cram too much into one day. Good family-friendly options include the International Intellectual Museum, open public spaces like Sukhbaatar Square, shorter museum visits, and an evening folk performance. Distances can feel longer than they look on the map, so taxis or ride-hailing apps make family sightseeing much easier.
Free Things to Do in Ulaanbaatar
If you want to keep costs low, spend time around Sukhbaatar Square, walk through central Ulaanbaatar, visit Zaisan Memorial for the view, browse local markets, and explore the outside grounds of major monasteries.
Even without paying for museums or performances, you can still get a strong sense of the city’s contrasts, from business districts and Soviet-era buildings to temples and hillside ger areas.
Why Ulaanbaatar is Worth Visiting
Few travelers come to Mongolia for Ulaanbaatar alone, but the city is far more than a stopover. It brings together the country’s major threads in one place: Buddhism, imperial history, socialism, rapid urban change, and the everyday reality of modern Mongolian life. In a single day, you can move from major museums and public squares to active monasteries, local cafés, cashmere shops, and panoramic viewpoints.
It also gives useful context before heading into the rest of the country. After spending time in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia’s landscapes, traditions, and contrasts make much more sense. Even if Ulaanbaatar is not the main reason you came to Mongolia, it adds important context to the rest of the journey.
Essential Ulaanbaatar Travel Tips (Transport, SIM Cards, Money, Etiquette)
Best Time to Visit
Ulaanbaatar is the coldest capital in the world and it gets seriously cold between November and March. May to September is the ideal time to visit without a doubt.
How Many Days in Ulaanbaatar
One full day is enough to see the main highlights, but two days is a much better pace. With two days, you can cover the key museums, monasteries, and viewpoints without rushing, and you still have time for a market, a performance, or a short excursion beyond the center. If you also want a proper day trip to Terelj or Hustai, give yourself three days.
Where to Stay in Ulaanbaatar
Still deciding where to stay in Ulaanbaatar? Read my full guide to the best areas, hotels, and apartments in the city so you can book the right base for your trip.
SIM Cards and Internet in Ulaanbaatar
Getting a local SIM card in Ulaanbaatar is straightforward and worth doing if you are continuing around Mongolia. You can usually buy one at the airport or in the city, and mobile data is useful for maps, translation, ride-hailing apps, and keeping track of bookings. If you want to have connectivity from the moment you arrive, an eSIM is best. In my Asia eSIM guide I explain some of the best options.
Money & ATMs in Ulaanbaatar
Cash is still useful in Ulaanbaatar, especially for markets, small eateries, and simpler local shops, but cards are widely accepted in hotels, malls, cafés, and many restaurants. I would carry both. ATMs are easy to find in central areas.
I use debit cards by Wise and N26 fore the lowest fees and payments in other currencies. You can gets yours easily from the links below.
How to Get Around
By taxi
Taxis and ride‑hailing apps (UBCar or ABA Taxi) are widely available. Mind you, traffic can be very heavy during rush hours.
By bus
Public transport in Ulaanbaatar is decent and extensive, though it can feel confusing at first if you do not read Mongolian Cyrillic. If you plan to use buses, check the latest fare and payment system locally or through a transport app, as these details can change.
The fare is 1,000 MNT for regular buses and 500 MNT for trolleybuses. Cash is not accepted. Instead, you’ll need a U Money card, which costs about 3,800 MNT and can be bought at convenience stores such as CU or Circle K. Tap when boarding and exiting to activate up to four free transfers per day.
Is Ulaanbaatar Safe?
Ulaanbaatar is generally safe for travelers, and I felt comfortable walking around the center even after dark. The main issues are the usual urban ones: traffic, occasional petty theft in crowded places, and drunk men in rougher areas late at night, especially in some outer districts. Stick to normal precautions, use ride-hailing apps when needed, and you are unlikely to have problems. Air pollution can also be a serious issue in colder months, so that is worth considering if you are sensitive to it.
Best Restaurants in Ulaanbaatar
Ulaanbaatar’s food scene blends traditional Mongolian dishes with international flavors. For a truly local experience, try buuz (steamed dumplings) or khuushuur (fried meat pastries) at a small neighborhood eatery.
Food was one of the things that surprised me most in Ulaanbaatar. Alongside traditional dumpling spots and barbecue restaurants, I found a much better café culture than I expected.
- Modern Nomads – Contemporary interpretations of Mongolian classics. They have a few branches in the city. I tried this one and was very happy.
- Jignuur Buuz – They specialize in Mongolia dumplings, called “buuz”. Try the mutton buuz!
- Bulant Buuz – A very authentic local place with some of the tastiest Mongolian dumplings!
- Zochin mongol zoog-4 – Great place to try Mongolian barbecue.
- Great Mongol Restaurant & Pub – Quirky German-inspired pub that serves amazing mutton noodles (called tsuivan) and other typical Mongolian and international dishes.
- Khuurgandaa Mongolian Grill – Another very nice local eatery doing barbecue and more.
I also found out that the capital of Mongolia has a very decent coffee scene. Some of my favorite cafés in Ulaanbaatar are Millie’s Espresso, Coffee Namu, Turning Point Jazz Café, and Cotton Cat Cafe if you like cat cafés.
Ulaanbaatar may not be the most beautiful capital in Asia at first glance, but I found it one of the most interesting. Give it a little time, and the city starts to make sense: the monasteries, museums, food, Soviet layers, modern ambitions, and deep connection to the rest of Mongolia all come together surprisingly well.
Frequently Asked Questions about Ulaanbaatar
How many days do you need in Ulaanbaatar?
Two days is ideal for most travelers. That gives you enough time to see the main museums, monasteries, viewpoints, and one or two local neighborhoods without rushing.
Is Ulaanbaatar safe for tourists?
Yes. The city is generally safe, though traffic is chaotic and petty theft can happen in busy areas. Use normal precautions and take a taxi or ride-hailing app at night if needed.
What is Ulaanbaatar famous for?
Ulaanbaatar is known for its mix of Buddhist monasteries, Soviet-era architecture, modern high-rises, and its role as the gateway to the rest of Mongolia.
What is the best time to visit Ulaanbaatar?
June to September is the easiest time to visit, with July especially popular because of Naadam. Winter is beautiful but extremely cold.
Last Updated on 20/03/2026 by Panos
Panos is a seasoned traveler who has explored over 60 countries, specializing in slow, immersive journeys. Through Unusual Nomad, he shares honest travel guides and personalized trip planning advice based on firsthand experiences.
