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As urban capital of a nomadic nation, Ulaanbaatar is something of a paradox, but with the modern world rapidly sweeping away the monolithic remnants of the Soviet era the city has become a forward-looking, if laid-back, base from which to explore this remarkable country.
The city sits in a picturesque location on the Tuul Gol River surrounded by mountains that hint at the scenic splendours beyond its bounds.
Attractions
A number of impressive and atmospheric sights are dotted around the town, including Mongolia’s largest Buddhist monastery, the Gandan Khiid, and the extraordinary Winter Palace of Bogd Khaan.
Also worth a visit are a number of museums dedicated to Mongolia’s fascinating cultural and natural history.
Around Ulaanbaatar
For those with little time to explore further afield we thoroughly recommend sampling the wonders of Mongolia’s natural heritage and traditional hospitality with an overnight visit to the beautiful Khustain National Park, just a couple of hours’ drive west of the city. Here you can visit the Takhi, Mongolia’s rare and much-loved wild horses.
The breed had become extinct in the wild until they were reintroduced using stock from foreign zoos in the 1990s. This is also an ideal opportunity to spend a night in a traditional nomadic felt tent or ‘ger’, a surprisingly comfortable form of accommodation.
Naadam Festival
The annual gathering of the tribes at the great Naadam Festival dates back to the times of Genghis Khan and gives the menfolk, once the most feared warriors on the planet, the opportunity to demonstrate their considerable prowess in the ‘Three Manly Sports’ of wrestling, archery and horse racing.
Even if the sports do not appeal, this is the biggest event in the Mongolian calendar and the colourful crowds and general atmosphere of excitement make it a fine focus for a visit to the country.
The festival in Ulaanbaatar runs annually in mid-July and attracts visitors from across the globe — accommodation can be scarce so it is worth booking ahead.
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Places near Ulaanbaatar
- Khustain Nuruu National Park 9 miles away
- Khogno Khan Mountain 106 miles away
- Karakorum 198 miles away
- Ongi Khiid 226 miles away
- Tsenkher Springs 254 miles away
Photos of Ulaanbaatar
Accommodation choices for Ulaanbaatar
We've selected a range of accommodation options for when you visit Ulaanbaatar. Our choices usually come recommended for their character, facilities and service or location. Our specialists always aim to suggest properties that match your preferences.
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The Trans-Mongolian Express
Ulaanbaatar -
Bayangol Hotel
Ulaanbaatar
Ideas for experiencing Ulaanbaatar
Our specialists seek out authentic ways to get to know the places that could feature in your trip. These activities reflect some of the experiences they've most enjoyed while visiting Ulaanbaatar, and which use the best local guides.
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National Museum of Mongolian History National Museum of Mongolian History
National Museum of Mongolian History
The Museum of National History has a number of fascinating displays of traditional Mongolian clothing and weaponry, as well as exhibits charting the course of Genghis Khan's empire-building.
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Ulaanbaatar City Tour Ulaanbaatar City Tour
Ulaanbaatar City Tour
The introductory city tour of Ulaanbaatar takes you through some of the principal sights of this unique city.
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The Winter Palace of Bogd Khaan The Winter Palace of Bogd Khaan
The Winter Palace of Bogd Khaan
The Bogd Khaan Museum consists of a two-storey winter house built for the Mongol ruler by Tsar Nicholas the Second of Russia, as well as a series of temples. Peaceful and serene, it is pleasant to wander round.
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Terelj National Park Terelj National Park
Terelj National Park
The imposing cliffs and gentle valleys of Terelj are a wilderness refuge within reach of Ulaanbaatar. The forested slopes are home to moose and brown bear; the skies are filled with the silhouettes of hunting birds; the pure headwaters of the Tuul River abound with whitefish and the Taimen, Mongolia's indigenous salmon.
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