Things To Do
in Uliastay
Uliastai is a small provincial town in western Mongolia set against the backdrop of rolling steppe and distant mountains. It serves as a gateway to nomadic life and the rugged beauty of the Zavkhan region. The town blends traditional ger life with a growing guesthouse scene, offering a quiet base for exploring nearby landscapes.
Visitors can expect authentic rural hospitality, panoramic skies, and a slower pace that invites immersion in local culture.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at Uliastai and check into your accommodation. Take some time to freshen up and get settled in your new surroundings. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café, admiring the views of the surrounding mountains.
Stroll through the town, exploring local markets and shops filled with unique Mongolian crafts. Visit the Uliastai Museum to learn about the region's rich history and culture. Engage with locals to get a feel for everyday life in this vibrant town.
Delight in a traditional Mongolian dinner at a local restaurant, savoring dishes like buuz and khorkhog. Experience the lively atmosphere while enjoying local music and perhaps a cultural performance. Conclude the evening with a sunset walk, absorbing the tranquil beauty of Uliastai.
After breakfast, embark on a guided tour to explore the nearby mountains and valleys. Enjoy the fresh air as you hike through breathtaking landscapes, spotting wildlife and unique flora. Pause at a scenic viewpoint to take stunning photographs.
Visit the stunning Khar Us Lake, where you can engage in leisurely activities such as fishing or bird watching. Enjoy a packed picnic lunch by the lake, soaking in the serene surroundings. Spend some time relaxing by the waterfront or exploring the nearby areas.
Return to Uliastai, and take part in a traditional Mongolian barbecue, where locals cook over an open flame. Share stories and experiences with fellow travelers and locals alike as the night unfolds. Relax under a star-filled sky, appreciating the wide-open spaces and fresh air.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🥟Buuz (dumplings) at local eateries | $1-3 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $1-3 |
| 🚕Short taxi ride | $2-5 |
| 🏨Budget hotel or guesthouse per night | $15-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Authentic rural culture and warm hospitality
- Stunning steppe landscapes and proximity to the Khangai mountains
- Limited amenities in town and rural areas
- Language barrier can be challenging for non-M Mongolian speakers
- "Sain bainaa" - Hello
- "Ta sainaa ve?" - How are you?
- "Bayartai" - Please / Thank you
- "Bi ...-aaraa яръя?" - My name is ...
- "Tailingaa?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Uliastay
Visit one of these nice places.
Open steppe with pale light over distant hills; ideal for expansive landscape shots and quiet morning composition.
A high point near town offering sweeping views of the town, river, and surrounding grasslands.
A curving river with willow-lined banks—great for reflections and wildlife photography.
Photograph traditional tents and herders preparing evening meals, capturing authentic rural life.
Rock carvings and landscape contrasts provide textured, historical backdrops for photography.
Food in Uliastay
Uliastay Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Steamed dumplings filled with minced mutton or beef, often enjoyed fresh from markets or teahouses.
Must-Try!
Deep-fried meat pastries, usually made with generous fillings of seasoned minced meat and onions.
A traditional hot-pot-style dish where meat and vegetables are cooked in a sealed pot with hot stones at gatherings or special occasions.
A milky tea is common; if available, try airag (fermented mare’s milk) for a traditional beverage experience.
Noodle stir-fry with meat and vegetables, a comforting staple in many households.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A local market where stalls sell meat, dairy, produce, and ready-to-eat snacks, ideal for a quick, authentic bite.
Portable stalls and small eateries offering fresh buuz and khushuur, perfect for a casual lunch.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A simple greeting like 'Sain bainaa' is appreciated. When entering a ger, ask permission and remove shoes if invited inside.
Avoid taking photos inside private spaces without consent; ask before entering a ger and offering food or gifts is considered courteous.
If visiting a family, presenting small gifts or sharing tea is a kind gesture.
Safety
Tipping in Uliastay
Ensure a smooth experience
Tips are not always expected in smaller towns, but appreciated at better restaurants or guesthouses. Leaving a small tip (about 5-10%) for good service is common in larger establishments.
Cash in Mongolian tugrik is widely used, especially in rural areas. Some hotels and restaurants in town may accept cards, but carry cash for markets, ger camps, and smaller eateries.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with cool nights; air can be dry and breezy. Perfect for hiking and markets, but expect occasional rapid weather changes; bring layers and sun protection.
Golden grasses and clear skies; comfortable trekking conditions. Nights grow chilly; pack a warm layer and a light rain jacket.
Cold, with strong winds and snow. Travel can be challenging; bring thermal layers, insulated boots, and protective outerwear. Some roads may be limited.
Melting snow and budding scenery; variable weather with potential late-season rains. Waterproof gear and sturdy footwear are advisable.
Uliastay at Night
Hiking in Uliastay
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Pursue alpine trails and panoramic views in the surrounding hills connected to the Khangai range; suitable for day hikes and photography.
Gentle to moderate terrain offering varied scenery, from grassy slopes to rocky outcrops.
Airports
How to reach Uliastay by plane.
Small domestic airstrip serving Zavkhan; seasonal flights to major hubs when weather permits.
Regional airport with broader connections across western Mongolia and to Ulaanbaatar.
Buyant-Ukhaa International Airport and Chinggis Khan International access the capital and serve as gateways for longer journeys.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority of residents belong to Mongol ethnic groups, with a presence of minority communities such as Kazakh and others in the broader region.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A traditional Mongolian activity; widely practiced in rural and nomadic settings.
Cultural staples often observed during festivals and in community life.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Uliastay.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Mongolian menus are meat-centric, but you can request vegetable-based dumplings, noodle dishes, or soups. Ask for dishes with minimal dairy and opt for bean or grain-based options when available.