Exploring Ulaanbaatar: Unearthing the Cultural Tre

Ulaanbaatar has many attractions, but some of the must-visit ones include the Gandan Monastery, the National Museum of Mongolia, and the Zaisan Memorial. The Gandan Monastery is one of the most important Buddhist sites in Mongolia, and the National Museum of Mongolia has a vast collection of Mongolian artifacts. The Zaisan Memorial is a Soviet-era monument that offers great views of the city.

There are several outdoor activities to do in Ulaanbaatar, such as hiking in the nearby mountains or visiting the Terelj National Park. You can also go horseback riding on the Mongolian steppes or visit the Gorkhi-Terelj National Park, which is a great place for fishing and picnicking.

The best time to visit Ulaanbaatar is during the summer months of June, July, and August when the weather is warm and dry. The winter months of December, January, and February are extremely cold, with temperatures dropping to -30C. However, if you want to experience the famous Naadam Festival, which takes place in July, then you should plan your trip accordingly.

The Naadam Festival is Mongolia's biggest and most famous festival. It is a celebration of Mongolian culture and tradition, and it includes traditional sports such as wrestling, archery, and horse racing. The festival takes place in Ulaanbaatar in July and attracts visitors from all over the world.

Some traditional Mongolian dishes you should try include buuz (steamed dumplings filled with meat), khuushuur (deep-fried meat pies), and khorkhog (stewed lamb with vegetables). You can also try airag, which is fermented mare's milk. If you're feeling adventurous, you can also try some of the more unusual Mongolian dishes such as boiled sheep's head or goat's eye soup.

There are several good places to stay in Ulaanbaatar, such as the Shangri-La Hotel, the Kempinski Hotel Khan Palace, and the Blue Sky Hotel and Tower. These hotels offer comfortable rooms, great amenities, and excellent service. If you're looking for more affordable options, there are also many guesthouses and hostels in the city.

Ulaanbaatar has many interesting museums, such as the Museum of Natural History, the Museum of Mongolian Costumes and Traditional Clothing, and the Choijin Lama Temple Museum. The Museum of Natural History has exhibits on Mongolia's geology, flora, and fauna, while the Museum of Mongolian Costumes and Traditional Clothing has displays of traditional Mongolian clothing. The Choijin Lama Temple Museum is a Buddhist temple that has been turned into a museum and has exhibits on Mongolian religious art and artifacts.

The currency used in Mongolia is the Mongolian tgrg (MNT). It is recommended that you exchange your currency for tgrg once you arrive in Mongolia, as it may be difficult to find tgrg in other countries. Many hotels and restaurants in Ulaanbaatar accept credit cards, but it is still a good idea to carry cash with you for smaller purchases.

The transportation in Ulaanbaatar can be challenging, as there is no subway system or light rail. However, there are buses and taxis available, as well as private cars for hire. It is recommended that you hire a driver or use a guided tour service, as the roads can be difficult to navigate, especially outside of the city.

Some unique souvenirs you can bring back from Ulaanbaatar include traditional Mongolian clothing, such as deel (long, loose robes) and boots, as well as handmade crafts such as felted goods and pottery. You can also purchase items made from Mongolian cashmere or yak wool, such as scarves, hats, and sweaters. Another popular souvenir is a morin khuur, which is a traditional Mongolian stringed instrument.