Ulan Bator Mongolia 3 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Exploring the Heart of Ulaanbaatar

  • Morning:

    • Start your day with a hearty traditional Mongolian breakfast at Tumen Ekh Restaurant (Чинжээл төмэн эх ресторан), located near Sukhbaatar Square.
    • Visit the iconic Sukhbaatar Square and the nearby Mongolian Government House, admiring the architecture that blends Mongolia’s traditional culture with modern design.

  • Afternoon:

    • Head to the National Museum of Mongolia (Монголын Ардийн Хувьсгалт Модуль) to learn about the rich history and culture of Mongolia, including exhibits on Genghis Khan and dinosaur fossils.
    • Take a short walk to the Gandan Monastery (Гандан Дэвсгэрхен), one of the largest Buddhist monasteries in Mongolia. Don’t forget to visit the nearby Buddha Park.

  • Evening:

    • For dinner, try Nadam Falafel (Надам Фалафель) for a unique fusion of Mongolian and Middle Eastern cuisines.
    • End your day with a stroll along Peace Avenue (Нууц Хөгжил Сэтгээсэн Шингэхүйд), enjoying the vibrant nightlife and local street food vendors.

Day 2: Nature and Culture in Ulaanbaatar

  • Morning:

    • Visit the Zaisan Memorial (Заисан Мемориал) for panoramic views of the city and a reminder of Mongolia’s military history.
    • Explore the Mongolian National Folk Art Museum (Монголын Ардийн Улсын Хүртэл Худоодын Музеемийг) to learn about traditional crafts, music, and dance.

  • Afternoon:

    • Escape the city by visiting the Turtle Rock (Тарилтай Тогоо), a unique rock formation in the outskirts of Ulaanbaatar.
    • If you’re interested in animals, spend some time at the National Central Zoo, home to many endangered species, including the Mongolian Takhi (Przewalski’s Horse).

  • Evening:

    • For dinner, head to The Blue Sky (Хорин Целс) for a modern take on Mongolian cuisine.
    • Take a traditional Khaan-Khalcha folk performance at the Tumen Ekh Ensemble (Түмэн Эх ансамбл). The show features Mongolian music, dance, and throat singing.

Day 3: Day Trip to Gorkhi-Terelj National Park

  • Morning:

    • Early morning departure to the beautiful Gorkhi-Terelj National Park, approximately a 1-hour drive from Ulaanbaatar.
    • Arrive at your chosen ger camp (traditional Mongolian tent) and enjoy breakfast with a view of the stunning landscape.

  • Afternoon:

    • Spend the afternoon horseback riding, hiking, or simply enjoying the breathtaking scenery. Don’t forget to visit the famous Turtle Rock formation within the park.
    • Explore Arypalao Meditation Temple and the nearby Genghis Khan Statue Complex.

  • Evening:

    • Relax at your ger camp, enjoying a traditional Mongolian barbecue dinner under the star-filled sky.
    • Spend your night in a comfortable ger, experiencing the unique culture of nomadic living.

Things to Know:

  1. The official language is Mongolian. English is spoken in many tourist areas, but it’s useful to learn a few phrases.
  2. The local currency is the Tugrik (MNT). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in cities, but cash is necessary for smaller towns and rural areas.
  3. Respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting monasteries or nomadic families.
  4. Tap water is not safe to drink; always use bottled water.
  5. Mongolia has a continental climate with extremely cold winters and warm summers. Dress accordingly.
  6. Ulaanbaatar has excellent public transportation, including buses and taxis. It’s also possible to hire cars or join guided tours for day trips.