Ultimate 3-Day Ulaanbaatar Itinerary: Best Things to Do & See

Ulaanbaatar blends ancient Mongolian tradition with bustling urban energy, serving as a gateway to nomadic culture and stunning steppe landscapes.

Main view of Ulaanbaatar

Day 1: City Landmarks & Cultural Heritage

Morning

Begin your journey at the iconic Sukhbaatar Square, the heart of Ulaanbaatar, where you can admire grand monuments, government buildings, and experience the pulse of the city.

Sukhbaatar Square

Sukhbaatar Square

Next, head to the historic Gandan Monastery, Mongolia’s most important Buddhist center, to witness monks in prayer and marvel at the magnificent golden Buddha statue.

Gandan Monastery

Gandan Monastery

Afternoon

Discover Mongolian history at the National Museum of Mongolia, which showcases artifacts from the Mongol Empire and vibrant exhibits on nomadic culture.

National Museum of Mongolia

National Museum of Mongolia

Break for lunch at Modern Nomads, a beloved local restaurant serving authentic Mongolian cuisine with a contemporary twist.

Modern Nomads

Modern Nomads

Evening

Experience a live traditional music and dance performance at the intimate Tumen Ekh Ensemble, celebrating throat singing, contortion, and colorful folk costumes.

Tumen Ekh Ensemble

Tumen Ekh Ensemble

📍 Directions for Day 1

Day 2: Nature, Art, and Local Markets

Morning

Get a panoramic view of Ulaanbaatar and the surrounding steppe from Zaisan Memorial, a Soviet-era monument with sweeping vistas, murals, and a peaceful park setting.

Zaisan Memorial

Zaisan Memorial

Afternoon

Explore contemporary and traditional Mongolian art at the National Art Gallery, home to masterpieces by local artists and temporary exhibitions.

National Art Gallery

National Art Gallery

For lunch, enjoy hearty dumplings and hand-pulled noodles at Khaan Buuz, a celebrated spot for traditional buuz and Mongolian comfort food.

Khaan Buuz

Khaan Buuz

Evening

Immerse yourself in local life at the bustling Naran Tuul Market (Black Market), where you can browse everything from traditional deels to handmade souvenirs and fascinating antiques.

Naran Tuul Market

Naran Tuul Market

📍 Directions for Day 2

Day 3: Spiritual Sights & Local Flavors

Morning

Start with a tranquil visit to Choijin Lama Temple Museum, a hidden gem displaying exquisite Buddhist art, masks, and peaceful courtyards in the city center.

Choijin Lama Temple Museum

Choijin Lama Temple Museum

Afternoon

Enjoy a unique riverside lunch at Veranda, an elegant spot known for its fresh local ingredients and beautiful views over the city and Tuul River.

Veranda

Veranda

Visit the fascinating Zanabazar Museum of Fine Arts, showcasing Buddhist sculptures, paintings, and rare artifacts from Mongolia’s spiritual heritage.

Zanabazar Museum of Fine Arts

Zanabazar Museum of Fine Arts

Evening

End your trip with a memorable dinner at BD's Mongolian Grill, where you can craft your own stir-fry and savor classic Mongolian barbecue in a lively setting popular with locals and travelers alike.

BD's Mongolian Grill

BD's Mongolian Grill

📍 Directions for Day 3

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