Things To Do
in Ulaan-Uul
Ulaan-Uul is a remote borderland town in central Mongolia framed by expansive steppe and distant mountains. The area is dominated by nomadic herding, ger camps, and seasonal migrations that shape daily life. Wide horizons, clear night skies, and rugged textures define the landscape around coordinates 44.3337, 111.2333.
Visitors encounter warm hospitality, traditional culture, and a pace that shifts with the seasons.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a sumptuous breakfast at a local café, enjoying traditional Mongolian dishes like buuz and milk tea. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll to the central square, Sukhbaatar Square, where you can admire the grand statue of Genghis Khan and the surrounding Soviet-era architecture. Capture the essence of the city as you visit the State History Museum to learn about Mongolia's rich heritage.
Grab lunch at a nearby restaurant and savor some khorhog, a traditional Mongolian barbecue. In the afternoon, embark on a guided walking tour through the bustling streets of Ulaan-Uul, where you can explore local shops and galleries showcasing Mongolian art. Don't miss the chance to visit the Zanabazar Museum of Fine Arts, which houses an impressive collection of Buddhist art.
As the sun sets, indulge in a traditional Mongolian dinner at a local restaurant, where you can enjoy dishes like mutton dumplings and various dairy delights. After dinner, take a leisurely walk to the nearby Ulaanbaatar Opera House to catch a performance or simply enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the city. End your evening with a drink at a rooftop bar, taking in panoramic views of the illuminated city skyline.
Begin your morning with a visit to the iconic Gandan Monastery, one of Mongolia's most important religious sites. As you explore the vibrant grounds, you’ll witness the morning prayers and rituals of the monks, providing a unique insight into Buddhist practices. Don’t forget to take a moment to appreciate the impressive 26-meter tall statue of Migjid Janraisig.
After a spiritual morning, grab lunch at a nearby café and then head to the National Museum of Mongolia to deepen your understanding of the country's culture and history. Spend the afternoon exploring the exhibits showcasing Mongolia's nomadic lifestyle, ancient artifacts, and the Mongol Empire. Engage with knowledgeable guides who can bring the stories to life and answer any questions you may have.
In the evening, indulge in a traditional Mongolian feast at a cultural performance restaurant, where you can enjoy local dishes while watching throat singing and traditional dance performances. Experience the warmth of Mongolian hospitality as you interact with locals and fellow travelers. To close the evening, take a stroll through the lively streets, soaking in the local nightlife and perhaps visiting a nearby pub for a drink.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍜Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-10 |
| 🧃Bottle of water (1.5L) | $0.50-1 |
| 🛏️Guesthouse or homestay per night | $10-25 |
| 🚗Taxi within town | $2-5 |
| 🧥Basic clothing or warm layer | $20-60 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Authentic nomadic culture and hospitality
- Stunning steppe landscapes and clear night skies
- Limited urban amenities and variable connectivity
- Rugged travel conditions in certain seasons
- "Сайн байна уу?" - Hello
- "Баярлалаа" - Thank you
- "Тийм" - Yes
- "Үгүй" - No
- "Энэ хэд вэ?" - How much is this?
- "Угаалгын өрөө хаана байна вэ?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Уучлаарай" - Excuse me / I'm sorry
- "Би ойлгосонгүй" - I don’t understand
Places to Visit in Ulaan-Uul
Visit one of these nice places.
Captures the endless grasslands bathed in soft morning light, with long shadows and silhouettes of grazing livestock.
A vantage point over rugged terrain and the surrounding steppe, ideal for dramatic wide-angle shots.
Photograph traditional dwellings against a vivid sky as heat hues wash over the camp.
Water reflections and reed beds create tranquil compositions when the light is warm.
A clear, dark-sky environment perfect for star trails and astronomical photography.
Food in Ulaan-Uul
Ulaan-Uul Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Steamed dumplings filled with minced meat and onions; a staple found in homes, markets, and camp kitchens.
Must-Try!
Smoked meat cooked with hot stones inside a metal container, creating a rich, tender dish often shared during gatherings.
Deep-fried meat pastries similar to savory turnovers; crisp exterior with flavorful filling.
Fermented mare’s milk offering a light, tangy beverage often enjoyed at gatherings or as a refreshing drink after a day of travel.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A small, open-air market where herders trade dairy products, dried meat, and simple snacks; great for tasting fresh curds and traditional breads.
Informal stalls near camps offering quick bites like khuushuur, fried dumplings, and sweet tea, ideal for a casual, authentic meal.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet elders with a smile and a respectful tone; a handshake is common among adults. Use both hands when giving or receiving gifts or money.
Ask for permission before photographing people or private family spaces; offering a small tip or a coffee can be polite after consent.
Do not step on the threshold; remove shoes if asked, and show deference to hosts during meals.
Safety
Tipping in Ulaan-Uul
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. Leave small tips for guides, drivers, and camp staff if you received good service (roughly 1-5 USD per person for a day’s guide, more for exceptional service). Cash is preferred.
Cash (MNT or USD) is widely used in rural areas. In towns with guesthouses or camps, some places may accept card payments, but carry local currency for markets and nomad camps.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days with fresh green growth; sudden showers can occur. Great for seeing newborn livestock and renewed plant life.
Warm daytime temperatures with cooler nights; occasional dust and thunderstorms. The landscape is lush and photogenic.
Crisp air and gold-brown grasses; hunting or herding activities begin to wind down as nights grow longer.
Cold and dry with snow cover; travel can be challenging; dress in multiple layers and be prepared for wind chill.
Ulaan-Uul at Night
Hiking in Ulaan-Uul
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A moderate hike through grassland with occasional rock outcrops and panoramic views of the surrounding plains.
A longer route that traverses foothill terrain, offering diverse landscapes and potential wildlife sightings.
Airports
How to reach Ulaan-Uul by plane.
Main international gateway to Mongolia; connections to Asia, Europe, and beyond. From here, domestic flights reach provincial towns, including routes toward central Mongolia.
Regional airport serving the southern Gobi region with domestic flights to Ulaanbaatar; convenient for longer journeys toward central Mongolia from the south.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Families maintaining seasonal migrations with livestock; a core part of the area’s culture and economy.
Small town populations engaged in agriculture, crafts, and services that support travelers and nomadic camps.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A traditional sport commonly showcased at festivals; emphasizes strength, technique, and ceremonial aspects.
An enduring part of nomadic life; many families ride daily for herding and travel, offering an authentic way to explore the landscape.
Historical sport with ceremonial shoots; a symbol of Mongolian culture and rural gatherings.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Ulaan-Uul.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are available in most guesthouses and camps. Rely on dairy, grains, legumes when offered, and request vegetable dishes if possible; clarify ingredients with hosts to avoid hidden meat broths.