Highlights of Ulaanbaatar - Private City Tour
Active
6h - 8h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
In the morning your guide will pick you up from any location in Ulaanbaatar and welcome to this engrossing yet flexible and physically easy day tour.
Walk the city’s central square and listen to entertaining comments of your guide about the past and present of Ulaanbaatar. Visit the memorial complex of Chinggis Khan and have your photo taken in front of his grand statue. Count steps to the top of Zaisan hill and enjoy a panoramic view of the city. Feel the peaceful charm of Gandan Monastery, main Buddhist center and take a curious look at Buddhist rituals and services. Finally get a concise picture of the country’s history from early humans to modern era at the National Museum of Mongolia. Particularly interesting to ladies can be the collection of traditional costumes of over 20 ethnic groups, their jewelry and luxury accessories. An optional performance of folk music and dance with the celebrated art of throat singing as the highlight can be a suiting finish to the great day.
Available options
Ulaanbaatar Panorama
Pickup included
What's included
Private transportation
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Guiding and support staff
Sightseeing and admission fees
Lunch and drinking water
Detailed itinerary
1
A concise yet comprehensive overview of Mongolia’s history from early humans to modern era based on a vastly rich collection of artifacts. Particularly interesting to ladies might be the collection of traditional costumes of over 20 ethnic groups, their jewelry and luxury accessories.
2
The central square of Ulaanbaatar originally bore the name of Sukhbaatar, a people’s hero of the beginning of 20th century when the country’s journey toward independence started.
Today it bears the name of Chinggis Khan’s (Mongolian spelling) and provides a great view point to many important landmarks of past and the present not to mention the rich vibe of cultural events and social gatherings: wedding, graduations, reunions etc.
3
Stop 3
One of the principal centers of Buddhism in Mongolia. It’s a vast architectural complex with a colossal gold-plated statue of the Buddha as the main visitor attraction. The complex also includes a religious school, a huge library of precious books and a dozen of temples where Buddhist services and rituals a held. Significantly, the 13th Dalai Lama briefly stayed here in 1904 having fled the British invasion of Tibet.
4
Stop 4
An elevated hill on the city’s edge providing a panoramic view of the ever-growing metropolis. It’s a ring fresco wall inset with a colorful mosaic depicting a timeline of 7 decades of Soviet Mongolian cooperation. It has a hearth for an eternal flame as the centerpiece. With over 600 steps from the base of the hill to its top, Zaisan is popular venue for spending leisure time of the Ulaanbaatar residents.
5
An entrancing introduction to Mongolia’s folklore songs, traditional dances and the internationally acclaimed arts of throats singing and contortion. It’s a chance to see and listen to horse fiddles, the icon of Mongolia’s traditional musical art. A Buddhist ritual dance of deities wearing elaborate masks is also an essential act of the repertoire.
What's not included
Travel Insurance
Beverages (alcoholic and non-alcoholic)
Gratuities for support staff
Available languages
Guide guide
DE
RU
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
3.7
3 reviews
5★
2
4★
0
3★
0
2★
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1★
1
Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
A minimum of 2 people per booking is required
Please advise any specific dietary requirements at time of booking
Meeting point
Bayangol hotel Tower A, beside the small statue of Chinggis Khan on horseback.
Important notes
Hotel pickups commence prior to this time
About Ulaanbaatar
Ulaanbaatar, the capital and largest city of Mongolia, is a fascinating blend of traditional nomadic culture and modern urban development. Known for its vibrant markets, Buddhist monasteries, and dramatic landscapes, it offers a unique travel experience in the heart of Asia.
Top Attractions
Gandantegchinlen Monastery
The Gandantegchinlen Monastery is the largest and most important Buddhist monastery in Mongolia. It houses a massive statue of Avalokiteshvara and offers a serene atmosphere amidst the bustling city.
Religious
1-2 hours
Free (donations welcome)
Sukhbaatar Square
Sukhbaatar Square is the central square of Ulaanbaatar, named after the Mongolian revolutionary leader Damdin Sükhbaatar. It features a large equestrian statue of Genghis Khan and is a hub of political and cultural events.
Historical
30 minutes to 1 hour
Free
Zaisan Memorial
The Zaisan Memorial is a Soviet-era monument that offers panoramic views of Ulaanbaatar. It commemorates the Soviet-Mongolian friendship and is a popular spot for both locals and tourists.
Historical
1-2 hours
Free
National Museum of Mongolia
The National Museum of Mongolia showcases the rich history and culture of Mongolia, from prehistoric times to the present day. It features exhibits on Genghis Khan, Buddhist art, and traditional nomadic life.
Museum
1-2 hours
Moderate (around 5,000 MNT or $2 USD)
Gorkhi-Terelj National Park
Gorkhi-Terelj National Park is a stunning natural area located just outside Ulaanbaatar. It offers beautiful landscapes, hiking trails, and traditional Mongolian ger camps.
Nature
Full day
Varies by activity (entry fees, guided tours, etc.)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Boodog
A traditional Mongolian dish where a whole marmot or goat is cooked inside out over an open fire. The meat is tender and flavorful, and the dish is often shared among a group.
Main Course
Contains meat
Khuushuur
Deep-fried meat pastries, similar to dumplings, filled with minced meat (usually lamb or beef). They are a popular street food and can be found at markets and food stalls.
Snack
Contains meat
Aaruul
Dried curds made from milk, often shaped into small cubes or balls. Aaruul is a traditional Mongolian snack and is often enjoyed with tea.
Dessert
Vegetarian
Suutei Tsai
Mongolian milk tea, made with milk, tea leaves, and often salt. It is a staple beverage and is often served with meals.
Drink
Contains dairy
Popular Activities
Hiking in Gorkhi-Terelj National Park
Horseback Riding
Camping
Visiting Ger Camps
Enjoying Traditional Mongolian Spa
Strolling in Parks
Visiting Gandantegchinlen Monastery
Attending Naadam Festival
Best Time to Visit
June to August
Summer is the best time to visit Ulaanbaatar, with pleasant temperatures and long daylight hours. This is the peak tourist season, offering the best conditions for outdoor activities and festivals.
15°C to 25°C
59°F to 77°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Mongolian
- Widely spoken: English, Russian
- English: Limited (English is not widely spoken, especially outside of tourist areas)
Currency
Mongolian Tugrik (MNT)
Time Zone
UTC+8
Electricity
220VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Ulaanbaatar is generally safe for travelers, with low levels of violent crime. However, petty crime, such as pickpocketing and scams, can occur in tourist areas. Exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings.
Important Precautions:
- • Use reputable tour operators and taxi services
- • Carry only necessary valuables and keep them secure
- • Be cautious of strangers offering help or services
Getting there
By air
- Chinggis Khaan International Airport • 16 km from city center
By train
Ulaanbaatar Railway Station
By bus
Ulaanbaatar Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
Buses are the most common form of public transport in Ulaanbaatar. They are affordable but can be crowded during peak hours.
Taxis
Available • Apps: UB Taxi, GPS Taxi
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Sukhbaatar District
Bayangol District
Songino Khairkhan District
Day trips
Gorkhi-Terelj National Park
70 km from Ulaanbaatar • Full day
Gorkhi-Terelj National Park offers stunning landscapes, hiking trails, and traditional ger camps. It's a perfect day trip for nature lovers and those looking to experience the Mongolian countryside.
Chinggis Khaan Statue Complex
54 km from Ulaanbaatar • Half day
The Chinggis Khaan Statue Complex is home to the world's largest equestrian statue, standing at 40 meters tall. It offers a museum and panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
Gorkhi-Terelj National Park
70 km from Ulaanbaatar • Full day
Gorkhi-Terelj National Park offers stunning landscapes, hiking trails, and traditional ger camps. It's a perfect day trip for nature lovers and those looking to experience the Mongolian countryside.
Festivals
Naadam Festival • July 11-13
Tsagaan Sar (Lunar New Year) • January or February (varies by lunar calendar)
Eagle Festival • March
Pro tips
- Learn a few basic phrases in Mongolian to enhance your experience and interact with locals
- Dress in layers, as temperatures can fluctuate significantly throughout the day
- Carry cash, as card acceptance can be limited outside of major tourist areas
- Book accommodations and tours in advance, especially during peak seasons
- Be cautious of scams and pickpocketing in crowded tourist areas
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
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