Lykkers, if Mongolia stirs your imagination with endless grasslands and galloping herds under vast skies, its capital, Ulaanbaatar, may surprise you.
Often skipped over by travelers heading straight to the steppe, this city blends ancient traditions with rapid change.
With just one day, you can uncover some of its most captivating sites, all while staying on budget and making the most of your time.
Essential Sights and Attractions
Gandan Monastery
We suggest beginning your adventure at Gandan Monastery, the spiritual heart of Ulaanbaatar. This peaceful complex houses one of the tallest indoor statues in Asia—a 27-meter figure of Buddha made from copper and gold leaf, surrounded by intricate carvings and sacred texts.
Entry is free, but donations are welcome. Open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
Sukhbaatar Square
From there you can head to Sukhbaatar Square, the city's central landmark. This wide plaza is framed by major government buildings and features a large statue of Damdin Sukhbaatar, who played a key role in Mongolia's early 20th-century independence movement. The square also hosts the striking marble facade of the Government Palace, adorned with grand sculptures.
Zanabazar Museum of Fine Arts
Walk to the Zanabazar Museum (entrance: 8,000 MNT). This venue showcases traditional sculpture, and thangka paintings. It's open Tuesday to Sunday from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM. For a broader view of Mongolian heritage, the nearby National History Museum is another excellent stop (10,000 MNT entrance).
Lunch at Luna Blanca
Located just across from the Zanabazar Museum, Luna Blanca serves a plant-based version of local cuisine, with dishes like dumplings, stir-fries, and soups. Meals range from 10,000–20,000 MNT. Open daily from 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM.
Alternative Option: Tuul Restaurant
For a more traditional culinary experience, visit Tuul, just steps away. Expect hearty meals with dumplings, noodles, and soups for about the same price range.
Choijin Lama Temple Museum
Visit this atmospheric museum housed in a preserved early 20th-century temple complex. With delicate wood carvings, masks, and traditional motifs, it's a glimpse into the ceremonial life of Mongolia. Entrance: 8,000 MNT. Open Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
Bogd Khan Winter Palace
Head south to the Winter Palace of the former Mongolian leader, built between 1893 and 1903. The site consists of ornate wooden buildings showcasing royal garments, gifts, and artworks. Admission: 6,000 MNT. Open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM.
Zaisan Memorial
Nearby, perched on a hill, the Zaisan Memorial offers panoramic views of the city. Visitors must climb a stairway of over 600 steps, but the view and mosaics at the top make it worthwhile. Free entry, best visited before sunset.
Evening Entertainment and Food
Traditional Music and Dance
Before dinner, consider attending a cultural performance at Tumen Ekh Ensemble or the State Philharmonic. Shows often include throat singing, dancing, and instrumental performances using the iconic morin khuur (horse-head fiddle).
Ticket prices range from 25,000 to 50,000 MNT. Performances typically start around 6:00 or 6:30 PM.
Where to Stay and Budget Tips
Accommodation Options
• Adventure Rider Mongolia Guesthouse – Ideal for budget travelers, offering shared dorms and private rooms starting from 35,000 MNT per night.
• Khuvsgul Lake Hotel – A more classic hotel option with mid-range comfort, priced at around 120,000 MNT per night.
Both options include Wi-Fi, warm showers, and helpful staff familiar with local tours and transportation.
Travel Budget
• Meals: 30,000–45,000 MNT/day
• Attractions: 20,000–30,000 MNT/day
• Accommodation: 35,000–120,000 MNT/night
• Transportation (buses, taxis): 10,000–15,000 MNT/day
An average traveler can expect to spend about 100,000–150,000 MNT per day, excluding shopping or guided tours.
Beyond the Stopover: A City That Engages All Five Senses
Though often overlooked, Ulaanbaatar offers a fascinating blend of tradition and transformation. With grand statues, quiet temples, sweeping views, and rhythmic melodies, the capital tells a compelling story of Mongolia's cultural spirit. Lykkers looking to explore beyond the usual trails will find that Ulaanbaatar is more than a stopover—it's a destination full of charm, contrast, and discovery.
