2 Days Travel Guide to Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia
Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia’s vibrant capital, offers a unique blend of ancient tradition and modern life. With just two days in this fascinating city, this guide will help you capture its essence, exploring major landmarks, cultural experiences, and a touch of its natural beauty.
Day 1: Exploring Ulaanbaatar’s Heritage
- Morning (9:00 AM – 11:30 AM): Gandantegchinlen Monastery
- Begin your day at Gandantegchinlen Monastery, a vital center for Mongolian Buddhism. The monastery is home to a 26.5-meter-high statue of Migjid Janraisig and showcases exquisite examples of Buddhist art and architecture. It’s a peaceful place to absorb the spiritual and cultural life of Mongolia.
- Time Allocation: 2.5 hours
- Cost: Approximately 4,000 MNT for entry
- Lunch (12:00 PM – 1:00 PM)
- Savor Mongolian cuisine at a local restaurant. Try dishes like buuz (steamed dumplings) or khuushuur (fried dumplings) for an authentic taste.
- Afternoon (1:30 PM – 5:00 PM): National Museum of Mongolia & Sukhbaatar Square
- Visit the National Museum of Mongolia to explore the country’s rich history from the Stone Age to the present. Spend around 2 hours here before heading to Sukhbaatar Square, a central hub named after Mongolia’s revolutionary hero. This sequence offers a profound insight into Mongolia’s past and present within a few hours.
- Time Allocation: 3.5 hours for both
- Cost: Museum entrance fee is about 8,000 MNT
- Evening (6:00 PM onwards): Traditional Mongolian Dinner and Cultural Show
- Conclude your day with a traditional dinner accompanied by a cultural performance. Enjoy throat singing, horsehead fiddle music, and more, providing a memorable end to your first day.
- Cost: Expect around 20,000 – 30,000 MNT for dinner and a show
Day 2: Nature and Modern Ulaanbaatar
- Morning (8:00 AM – 12:00 PM): Gorkhi-Terelj National Park
- Spend the morning in Gorkhi-Terelj National Park, a beautiful showcase of Mongolia’s natural landscapes. Key sights include Turtle Rock and the Aryabal Meditation Temple. It’s a refreshing escape into nature, offering a stark contrast to the city’s hustle.
- Time Allocation: 4 hours (including travel)
- Cost: Entrance fee around 3,000 MNT, plus travel costs
- Lunch (12:30 PM – 1:30 PM)
- Have lunch in the park or at a local ger restaurant, enjoying traditional Mongolian dishes in a picturesque setting.
- Afternoon (2:00 PM – 5:00 PM): Zaisan Memorial & Bogd Khan Palace Museum
- Visit the Zaisan Memorial for panoramic views of Ulaanbaatar, followed by a tour of the Bogd Khan Palace Museum, the winter palace of the last king of Mongolia. This combination offers both a scenic overview and a deep dive into Mongolia’s royal history.
- Time Allocation: 3 hours
- Cost: Bogd Khan Palace Museum entry is around 8,000 MNT
- Evening (6:00 PM onwards): Leisure and Shopping
- Your trip wouldn’t be complete without some souvenir shopping. Visit the State Department Store or the Naran Tuul Market for traditional crafts, cashmere, and other Mongolian goods. Enjoy a casual dinner at a local restaurant, reflecting on your journey through Ulaanbaatar.
- Cost: Varies based on purchases
General Tips for Your Ulaanbaatar Visit:
- Dressing in layers is advisable as temperatures can vary significantly.
- Hiring a local guide, especially for excursions outside the city, can enhance your experience with insider knowledge and logistical ease.
- Carry cash in Mongolian Tugrik (MNT) for smaller vendors and rural areas.
- Respect local customs, particularly at religious sites, to ensure a respectful and enriching travel experience.
This condensed itinerary is designed to offer a comprehensive overview of Ulaanbaatar, blending its cultural, historical, and natural attractions to ensure a memorable visit to Mongolia’s capital.
