Things to do in Ulaanbaatar
Discover the best attractions and experiences Ulaanbaatar has to offer
Historic Monuments
Explore the core landmarks that tell the story of Ulaanbaatar’s past and its rapid modernization.
Sukhbaatar Square
The city’s central square with statues and government buildings, a pulse of urban UB.
Bogd Khan Winter Palace Museum
Historic winter palace of Mongolia’s last dynasty, now a museum of royal rooms and artifacts.
Gandantegchinlen Monastery
One of Mongolia’s most important Buddhist sites with impressive temple halls and grounds.
Museums
UB’s museums offer a window into Mongolia’s nomadic heritage and modern history.
National Museum of Mongolia
Comprehensive collection covering archaeology, culture, and daily life of Mongolia.
Choijin Lama Temple Museum
A former temple complex turned museum displaying ritual objects and art.
Bogd Khan Palace Museum
Impressive former royal residence filled with imperial possessions and rooms.
Religious Monuments
Sites of spiritual importance and historic Buddhist architecture in the capital.
Gandantegchinlen Monastery
A major Buddhist monastery with a grand stupa and peaceful courtyard.
Choijin Lama Temple
An ornate temple complex featuring gates, murals, and ritual artifacts.
Stupas and prayer sites around UB
Blessed spaces and smaller temples scattered around the city for contemplation.
National & Theme Parks
Get out of the city for dramatic landscapes and Mongolian wilderness.
Gorkhi-Terelj National Park
Popular riverside valley with pine forests, rock formations, and easy hiking.
Hustai National Park
Known for wild Przewalski horses and expansive prairie scenery.
Terelj Scenic Area
Beautiful valley with unique rock formations and traditional ger camps.
Neighborhoods
Explore different corners of the city, from busy centers to quiet residential lanes.
Sukhbaatar District
The city center with shops, cafes, and official buildings.
Chingeltei District
Residential and leafy streets with access to parks and markets.
Bayanzurkh District
A mix of new developments and traditional neighborhoods.
Free Things to Do
Budget-friendly ways to soak up UB’s vibe without spending a dime.
Sukhbaatar Square stroll
See the central statue ensembles and government buildings on foot.
Walk along Peace Avenue
Stroll the main boulevard lined with shops, cafes, and embassies.
Explore the Central Market exterior (Naran Tuul)
Browse stalls, watch daily life, and enjoy the market atmosphere.
Gastronomy
Taste traditional Mongolian flavors and street-food culture.
Naran Tuul Market (Central Market)
A bustling hub to sample dairy, dried meat, and quick snacks.
Buuz tasting
Try generous Mongolian steamed dumplings at a local stall.
Khorkhog experience
Experience traditional Mongolian barbecue cooked in a sealed pot.
Nightlife
Evenings in UB offer bars, lounges, and live performances.
Peace Avenue night scene
Bar and cafe-lined stretch ideal for a relaxed evening stroll.
Live performances around UB
Attend occasional concerts or gigs in central venues.
Cultural evenings at a venue
Take in traditional music or modern shows in the city center.
Entertainment
Cultural performances and theatres for an evening out.
National Academic Theatre of Opera and Ballet
Catch a world-class performance in Mongolia’s flagship theatre.
Mongolian State Circus
A colorful show featuring traditional and modern circus acts.
UB Cultural Center performances
Regular exhibitions, concerts, and shows in the city center.
Sports
Active ways to experience Mongolian outdoors and sport.
Horse riding near Terelj
Try a short horseback ride through scenic landscapes.
Ice skating or hiking nearby
Seasonal outdoor activities around UB and surroundings.
Urban running routes along Tuul riverbank
Casual runs with city views and fresh air.
Off the Track
Go beyond the usual tourist routes for authentic moments.
Ger camp visit near Terelj
Stay in a traditional Ger (yurt) and learn nomadic hospitality.
Hidden courtyards in central UB
Explore quiet, charming alleys and courtyards off the main streets.
Traditional tea ceremony with locals
Experience Mongolian tea culture with a host.