Things To Do
in Choybalsan
Choibalsan, often spelled Choybalsan, is the eastern capital of Dornod Aimag in Mongolia and a gateway to the expansive Mongolian steppe. Nestled near the border with Russia, the city blends Soviet-era architecture with traditional ger camps and wide open skies. The surrounding region is known for its vast grasslands, rivers, and birdlife, making it a quiet base for culture and nature.
Visitors should expect a friendly, slow-paced feel with opportunities to learn about nomadic life and experience Mongolian hospitality.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a visit to the main square of Choybalsan, where you can admire the monuments dedicated to local heroes. Enjoy a traditional Mongolian breakfast at a nearby cafe, featuring milk tea and buuz. After breakfast, take a leisurely stroll through the bustling market to experience the local culture and buy handmade crafts.
After lunch, head to the Museum of Choybalsan to learn about the fascinating history of the area, including its role during the Soviet era. Next, enjoy a walk in the city’s parks, where you can spot unique flora and fauna native to Mongolia. Engage in conversations with locals, gaining insights into their daily lives and traditions.
As the sun sets, visit a local restaurant and savor traditional Mongolian dishes such as khorkhog or mutton stew. After dinner, consider attending a cultural performance showcasing traditional music and dance, immersing yourself in the vibrant local arts. Wind down the evening by relaxing at your accommodation or exploring the city's nightlife.
Start your day early with a hearty breakfast before embarking on an adventurous trip to the Kherlen River, known for its stunning landscapes. Enjoy the fresh air and the sound of nature as you take a leisurely hike along the riverbanks. Bring your camera to capture the picturesque views and diverse wildlife that inhabit the area.
After exploring the river, set up a picnic lunch amidst the serene surroundings, enjoying local specialties while taking in the natural beauty. Spend the afternoon engaging in activities such as fishing or horseback riding, connecting with the rich nomadic culture of Mongolia. Consider visiting a nearby ger camp to learn about traditional Mongolian lifestyles.
As the day wraps up, return to Choybalsan and treat yourself to a warm dinner at a local restaurant. Use this time to reflect on your day's adventures and share stories with fellow travelers or locals you’ve made friends with. Finish the night by gazing at the stars in the clear sky, a spectacular sight far from city lights.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| ☕Coffee/tea | $1-3 |
| 🥟Local street food | $1-3 |
| 💧Bottle of water | $0.5-1 |
| 🛏️Basic hotel room (per night) | $20-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Calm, authentic Mongolian experience away from major tourist crowds
- Rich steppe landscapes and welcoming locals
- Limited nightlife and dining options outside the city center
- Rural travel can require careful planning for weather and transport
- "Sain bainaa?" - Hello (are you well)?
- "Bayartai" - Thank you
- "Ta angliар ярьж чадах уу?" - Do you speak English?
- "Heden вэ?" - How much is this?
- "Tai bolood?" - Please
- "Ugui" - No
- "Tiim" - Yes
- "Baibal" - Goodbye
Places to Visit in Choybalsan
Visit one of these nice places.
Historic architecture and clean lines with street life nearby; good for architectural and street photography in the early morning or late afternoon.
Colorful market scenes, vendors, and everyday activity with abundant texture and character.
Open sky, river reflections, and wildlife; ideal for sunset and golden-hour photography.
Traditional round tents against the expansive steppe sky provide warm color for portraits and landscape shots.
An element of infrastructure history with a hint of nostalgia for architectural photography.
Food in Choybalsan
Choybalsan Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Steamed dumplings filled with minced meat and onions; widely available at markets and restaurants.
Must-Try!
Fried or baked meat pastries similar to turnovers; popular street and restaurant fare.
Dried meat strips eaten as a snack or used in soups and stews.
A traditional drink that’s iconic in the steppe; available in some cafes and at homestays.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Main market offering fresh produce, dairy, dried meats, and snacks—great for trying local flavors.
Look for grilled meats, buuz, and fried pastries near the market square during the day.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Offer a brief handshake; greet elders with a respectful tone. Remove hats indoors and when entering ger camps.
If invited to a ger, accept tea or food. It is polite to try offerings and show appreciation.
Ask permission before photographing people, especially in private homes or ger camps.
Let the host begin eating first; use both hands to offer or receive items when possible.
Safety
Tipping in Choybalsan
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not always expected. Leave small sums for good service, especially in hotels, restaurants, and tour guides.
Cash (MNT) is widely used in markets and smaller establishments; some hotels and restaurants accept cards in larger towns. ATMs are available in Choibalsan, but keep sufficient cash for rural travel.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm daytime temperatures with cool nights; occasional dusty winds. Great for outdoor activities, markets, and photography in long daylight hours.
Milder days with vibrant grasses and migrating birds; pleasant for city strolls and light trekking.
Long, bitterly cold with strong winds; heavy snowfall possible. Plan for warm clothing and indoor activities; traveling between places can require extra time.
Transitional weather with windy days and variable temperatures; good times for photography of budding steppe and river thaw.
Choybalsan at Night
Hiking in Choybalsan
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A broad, open-steppe route suitable for short day hikes and photography of expansive skies and grasses.
A riverside loop offering scenic views, birdlife, and gentle elevation changes for a relaxed hike.
Plausible hiker-friendly ridge line offering panoramic views over the plains; best with a local guide.
Airports
How to reach Choybalsan by plane.
Domestic and limited international connections; primary gateway for eastern Mongolia; taxis and buses connect to the city center.
Major international hub for Mongolia with connections to Asia and beyond; used for long-haul travel and regional connections when arranging multi-city trips.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Khalkha Mongols with minority groups including Buryats and Russians; the region reflects a mix of traditional nomadic culture and Soviet-era heritage.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A traditional and popular activity in the region, offering a connection to nomadic culture.
Folk-influenced sports often showcased in cultural events and celebrations.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Choybalsan.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Mongolian vegetarian options exist but may be limited in remote areas. Look for dairy-rich dishes, mushrooms, legumes, and vegetable-based soups; communicate clearly with cooks about avoiding meat stock.