Things To Do
in Ulan-Ude

Explore the Ivolginsky Datsan and the Rinpoche Bagsha Datsan to learn about Buryat culture and religion.

Enjoy the beautiful nature of the Baikal region with hiking trails in the Baikal Nature Reserve.

Take a cycling tour along the picturesque Selenga River for scenic views and a refreshing outdoor experience.

Experience the stunning beauty of the world's deepest and oldest freshwater lake with a boat trip on Lake Baikal.

The Baraban Market is a vibrant hub of local food culture, offering a wide range of fresh produce, meats, and dairy products. Here, visitors can also sample a variety of street foods, including grilled meats, traditional pastries, and freshly brewed Buryat tea.

Rynok Zhelyabovka is another bustling market where visitors can immerse themselves in the sights, sounds, and flavors of Ulan-Ude's food scene. It's an ideal spot to try authentic street foods like sizzling shashlik (kebabs), savory pancakes, and local snacks like buuza and posy.

Tipping in Ulan-Ude, Russia is not a widespread practice. In most cases, service charges are already included in the bill at restaurants and cafes. However, leaving a small amount of change or rounding up the bill as a gesture of appreciation for good service is generally appreciated.

In Ulan-Ude, cash is still widely used for everyday transactions, especially in smaller establishments. However, major credit and debit cards are also accepted in hotels, restaurants, and larger stores. It's recommended to carry cash when visiting markets or small shops, as they may not accept cards.

Best time to visit Ulan-Ude to enjoy the beautiful cherry blossoms and pleasant weather.

Ideal season for outdoor activities, such as hiking, camping, and visiting the Baikal Lake.

Great time to witness the stunning fall foliage and attend cultural events and festivals.

Experience the unique winter activities like dog sledding, ice fishing, and enjoy the winter wonderland scenery.

While Buryat and Mongolian cuisines often feature meat-centric dishes, many restaurants and cafes in Ulan-Ude offer vegetarian and vegan alternatives, such as vegetable-filled dumplings and hearty soups. Visitors with dietary restrictions are advised to communicate their needs clearly, and restaurant staff are generally accommodating.

Gluten-free options may be more limited in traditional eateries, but some modern cafes and restaurants in Ulan-Ude do cater to gluten-free diets. Dishes like fresh salads, grilled vegetables, and rice-based meals can often be found on their menus.