Road trips from Ulaanbaatar

Ulaanbaatar

Ulaanbaatar, the capital city of Mongolia, is a fascinating destination for road trip enthusiasts. Located in the heart of the country, this bustling city serves as a great starting point for numerous road trips that will allow you to experience the rich culture, vast landscapes, and unique nomadic lifestyle of Mongolia.

Here are some popular road trip options originating from Ulaanbaatar:

1. Ulaanbaatar to Terelj National Park:
A short drive (approximately 80 kilometers or 50 miles) to the east of Ulaanbaatar, Terelj National Park offers stunning landscapes with unique rock formations, lush forests, and clear rivers. The park is an ideal destination for hiking, horseback riding, and visiting traditional ger camps.

2. Ulaanbaatar to Khustain Nuruu National Park:
Located about 100 kilometers (62 miles) to the west of Ulaanbaatar, Khustain Nuruu National Park is home to the famous Przewalski's horse, also known as the Takhi. This park offers an opportunity to observe these wild horses in their natural habitat while also enjoying picturesque landscapes.

3. Ulaanbaatar to Karakorum and Erdene Zuu Monastery:
Travel back in time by visiting the ancient capital of the Mongol Empire, Karakorum, located about 360 kilometers (224 miles) southwest of Ulaanbaatar. The nearby Erdene Zuu Monastery, built in the 16th century, is the oldest surviving Buddhist monastery in Mongolia.

4. Ulaanbaatar to Gobi Desert:
Embark on an epic journey to the vast and mysterious Gobi Desert, which stretches over southern Mongolia and northern China. This journey will take you through stunning landscapes, sand dunes, and unique geological formations. Be sure to visit the Flaming Cliffs, a renowned dinosaur fossil site, and the Khongoryn Els, a series of immense sand dunes.

5. Ulaanbaatar to Lake Khuvsgul:
Head north from Ulaanbaatar to visit Lake Khuvsgul, one of the largest and deepest freshwater lakes in the world. The drive is about 700 kilometers (435 miles) and takes you through beautiful landscapes of forests, mountains, and rivers. The lake itself is surrounded by pristine nature, offering opportunities for hiking, horseback riding, and boat trips.

When planning a road trip in Mongolia, be prepared for varying road conditions, including gravel and dirt roads. A 4x4 vehicle is highly recommended, and it's always a good idea to travel with a knowledgeable local guide. Don't forget to bring your sense of adventure and enjoy the unforgettable experiences that await you in Mongolia!

One day itinerary

If you only have one day in Ulaanbaatar, the capital of Mongolia, you'll want to make the most of your time by visiting the city's top attractions. Here's a suggested one-day itinerary to help you experience the best of Ulaanbaatar:

  1. Breakfast at a local café: Start your day with a traditional Mongolian breakfast at a local café or restaurant. You might want to try boortsog (fried dough) or a steamed meat-filled dumpling called buuz.

  2. Gandantegchinlen Monastery: Visit this important Buddhist monastery in the morning, when the atmosphere is particularly serene. It's one of the few monasteries that survived the religious purges of the 1930s, and is home to a 26.5-meter-high statue of Migjid Janraisig, the Bodhisattva of Compassion.

  3. National Museum of Mongolia: This museum offers a comprehensive overview of Mongolian history and culture. You'll find exhibits on prehistoric times, the Mongol Empire, Mongolia's nomadic lifestyle, and traditional clothing and crafts.

  4. Lunch at a traditional Mongolian restaurant: Refuel with a delicious Mongolian meal. Try khuushuur (deep-fried meat-filled pastry), or a hearty noodle soup called tsuivan.

  5. Sukhbaatar Square: This central square is the heart of Ulaanbaatar and is surrounded by important government buildings, including the Parliament House and the State Opera & Ballet Theatre. Take a stroll around the square and capture some photos with the statue of Damdin Sukhbaatar, a Mongolian revolutionary hero.

  6. Zaisan Memorial: This hilltop monument offers panoramic views of Ulaanbaatar and commemorates Soviet soldiers who fought in World War II. Climb the 300 steps to the top to enjoy the view and appreciate the beautiful mosaic artwork.

  7. Bogd Khan Palace Museum: Visit the winter residence of the last king of Mongolia, Bogd Khan. The museum showcases the king's personal collection of art, as well as his living quarters and throne room.

  8. Dinner at a modern Mongolian fusion restaurant: End your day with a meal that showcases Mongolia's contemporary culinary scene. You'll find restaurants serving innovative dishes that incorporate both traditional Mongolian ingredients and global influences.

  9. Optional evening activity: Depending on your interests and energy level, consider attending a traditional music and dance performance, visiting a local pub, or simply strolling around the city center to soak up the atmosphere and take in the city lights.

This itinerary will give you a taste of Ulaanbaatar's history, culture, and contemporary life, making for a memorable day in the capital of Mongolia.

Three days itinerary

Day 1: Explore the City Center

  1. Sukhbaatar Square: Start your day at the heart of Ulaanbaatar, Sukhbaatar Square, where you can see the statue of Genghis Khan, as well as other important monuments and government buildings.

  2. National Museum of Mongolia: Head over to the National Museum of Mongolia, which offers a comprehensive overview of Mongolian history and culture, from the Stone Age to the present day.

  3. Gandan Monastery: Visit the Gandan Monastery, the largest and most important Buddhist monastery in Mongolia. It is home to several temples and a large statue of Megjid Janraisig, a Buddhist bodhisattva.

  4. Lunch at a local restaurant: Try traditional Mongolian dishes like buuz (steamed dumplings) or khuushuur (fried dumplings).

  5. State Department Store: Go shopping at the State Department Store, a Soviet-era department store where you can find everything from traditional Mongolian clothing to souvenirs.

  6. Tumen Ekh Ensemble: End your day with a traditional Mongolian performance by the Tumen Ekh Ensemble, showcasing throat singing, folk music, and dance.

Day 2: Historical and Natural Sites

  1. Gorkhi-Terelj National Park: Start your day with a trip to Gorkhi-Terelj National Park, a beautiful nature reserve with stunning rock formations, forests, and rivers. You can hike, horseback ride, or simply relax and enjoy the scenery.

  2. Turtle Rock: While in the park, don't miss the iconic Turtle Rock, a unique rock formation resembling a turtle.

  3. Aryapala Meditation Center: Visit the Aryapala Meditation Center, a Buddhist temple and meditation retreat nestled in the mountains.

  4. Genghis Khan Statue Complex: On your way back to Ulaanbaatar, stop by the impressive Genghis Khan Statue Complex, featuring a 40-meter (131 ft) tall equestrian statue of Genghis Khan.

  5. Dinner at a local restaurant: Return to the city and enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, perhaps trying Mongolian barbecue.

Day 3: Day trip to the Mongolian countryside

  1. Khustain Nuruu National Park: Embark on a day trip to Khustain Nuruu National Park, home to the Przewalski's horse, a rare and endangered wild horse species.

  2. Wild horse observation: Take a guided tour to observe the Przewalski's horses in their natural habitat and learn about the conservation efforts to save this species.

  3. Ovoo (traditional stone cairn): Discover Mongolian customs and traditions by visiting an ovoo, a ceremonial stone cairn where locals offer prayers and make wishes.

  4. Nomadic family visit: Experience the authentic nomadic lifestyle by visiting a local herding family. Learn about their daily life, help with chores, and taste traditional homemade dairy products.

  5. Return to Ulaanbaatar: Head back to the city in the late afternoon, and spend your evening at leisure, exploring any remaining sights, shopping for souvenirs, or enjoying local nightlife.

Note: The itinerary above is just a suggestion and can be modified based on your interests and preferences. Make sure to check the opening hours and entrance fees for each site, as well as any local events or festivals that may be taking place during your visit.