Ulan Bator Mongolia 5 Day Itinerary

Ulaanbaatar: 5-Day Itinerary

Accommodation:

  • Budget: Zaisan Hill Guesthouse (stunning views), UB Youth Hostel (social atmosphere)
  • Mid-Range: Blue Sky Hotel & Tower, The Ramada by Wyndham
  • Luxury: Shangri-La Hotel, Ulaanbaatar

Transportation:

  • Within the City: Taxis are readily available and inexpensive. Download a taxi app like “Taxi 1” or negotiate fares beforehand. Public buses are affordable but routes can be confusing.
  • Day Trips: Consider hiring a driver for day trips outside the city.

Things to Know:

  • Currency: Mongolian Tugrik (MNT)
  • Language: Mongolian, but English is spoken in tourist areas.
  • Visa: Many nationalities can enter Mongolia visa-free for up to 30 days. Check requirements beforehand.
  • Weather: Ulaanbaatar experiences extreme temperatures. Pack layers and be prepared for both heat and cold.

Day 1: Arrival and City Exploration

  • Morning: Arrive at Chinggis Khaan International Airport (ULN), exchange currency, and take a taxi to your accommodation. Settle in and freshen up.
  • Afternoon: Explore Sukhbaatar Square, the heart of Ulaanbaatar. Visit the State Opera and Ballet Theatre, Parliament House, and the National Museum of Mongolia.
  • Evening: Dine at Modern Nomads Restaurant for contemporary Mongolian cuisine with a stylish ambiance.

Day 2: History & Culture

  • Morning: Visit Gandantegchinlen Monastery, a vibrant Buddhist monastery with a giant statue of Migjid Janraisig. Explore the grounds and observe monks performing rituals.
  • Afternoon: Immerse yourself in Mongolian history at the Choijin Lama Temple Museum, featuring beautifully preserved Buddhist artifacts and traditional artwork.
  • Evening: Enjoy a traditional Mongolian dinner show with music, dance, and throat singing at the Tumen Ekh Restaurant.

Day 3: Nature & Adventure

  • Morning: Take a day trip to Terelj National Park (approx. 1.5 hours drive). Hike through scenic valleys, admire towering rock formations like Turtle Rock, and visit Aryabal Meditation Temple for breathtaking views.
  • Afternoon: Enjoy horseback riding in the picturesque landscape of Terelj. Several local operators offer guided tours suitable for beginners.
  • Evening: Savor Mongolian barbecue (khorkhog) at a ger camp within Terelj National Park.

Day 4: Art & Shopping

  • Morning: Visit the Zanabazar Fine Arts Museum to appreciate traditional Mongolian paintings, sculptures, and handicrafts.
  • Afternoon: Explore Ulaanbaatar’s bustling markets for souvenirs. The Naran Tuul Market offers a wide variety of goods, from cashmere products to traditional clothing and crafts.
  • Evening: Indulge in delicious street food at the Peace Avenue Food Court.

Day 5: Departure

  • Morning: Relax and enjoy a final Mongolian breakfast at your accommodation. Visit the Zaisan Memorial for panoramic views over Ulaanbaatar.
  • Afternoon: Depart from Chinggis Khaan International Airport (ULN).

Tips:

  • Learn a few basic Mongolian phrases like “hello” (Sain baina uu) and “thank you” (Bayarlalaa).
  • Bargain when shopping in markets, but be respectful.
  • Drink bottled water as tap water is not always safe to drink.
  • Embrace the nomadic culture by trying traditional food and beverages like airag (fermented mare’s milk), buuz (steamed dumplings), and tsuivan (noodle dish).

Other Points of Interest:

  • Gorkhi-Terelj National Park: Hiking, horseback riding, rock climbing.
  • Chinggis Khan Statue Complex: Massive statue of the Mongolian leader with museum and viewing platform.
  • National Art Gallery of Mongolia: Contemporary and traditional Mongolian art.

Enjoy your trip to Ulaanbaatar!