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I got to spend a few days in Ulaanbaatar in October of 2017. Unfortunately, a few days definitely isn’t enough to see everything in this city, much less the city. Out of the seven places listed here, I only got to see 5 of them. An absolute disgrace because my research dictates that the other two are absolutely stunning. Obviously, some places need to be seen more in one season than another. Overall, you can find beauty anywhere in any season though. No matter what you do or which you choose, I recommend a local guide. I would not have learnt or done half of the things I did without my good friends Oona and Uuna. Thank you, guys.
7. Gorkhi-Terelj National Park
One of the two locations I did not get to go to while there. From my understanding, this place is absolutely gorgeous from late spring until early fall. From the rock that looks like a turtle, to camping in a ger, or from ATVing through the park to the meditation temple, there are so many amazing things to do out here. Yet it is only 37 KM from the city center.
6. Ceremonial Palace/City Hall Guards.
If you go to the square in front of city hall, you may have the chance to see the guards. A worthwhile sight that is not easy to forget. These guys are perfectly in unison. The performance they put on is mystifying. You won’t be able to look away as they do their stuff.
5. Bogd Khaan Palace
The other place I, unfortunately, did not get to see. The history behind this place is absolutely fascinating. Bogd Khaan, supposedly a descendant of the great Chinggis, was born to a Tibetan family in 1869. Coming to power in 1911, his greatest desire was to reestablish the great kingdom of Chinggis Khan. At the palace, you can learn about his past and a bit more about the country. When I go back, this is at the top of my list.
4. Sukhbaatar Square
There is more than one reason to check this place out. First off, this is the place to go to see the palace guard. Second, there is a point in the middle of the square that denotes the exact middle of the city. The third cool thing that I recall is the Sukhbaatar statue. This statue has got a lot of history behind it as well. He is regarded as one of the heroes of Mongolia. There is a plaque for you to read from to understand the history.
3. Chinggis Khan Monument
If you have any Mongolian friends, I am sure that you know that Genghis Khan’s real name is Chinggis Khan. If not, well now you know. This monument is the tallest equestrian statue in the world. Not only that, but you can go on top! If you want to hear more about my experience with this, click here. Inside this monument, there is also a museum in the basement. You can get your pictures taken in traditional Mongolian garb. If none of those take your attention, you can always shop in the traditional shops. You have your typical souvenirs mixed with some handmade Mongolian bags, cashmere clothing, and artwork. That, and it is only a stone’s throw away from the aforementioned national park.
2. Gundantegchinlen Monastery
This place. I mean, my god. You just have to go. It is an experience that is just ineffable. It is one of those places that has a physical presence. You can look around in the different buildings and just sense a different presence. When I went, we went into one of the smaller temples and a bunch of monks were chanting and learning from their books. As the chanting went on, the presence just weighed heavier on my soul. It is incredible. Do not miss this.
1. Migjid Janraisig Sum
This one was difficult for us. Kris and I had to look at the difference between this one and the previous option. When looking it up, there was a lot of confusion as to how these two things differed. Alas, we have figured it out. Within the Monastery, this is the largest temple in the Monastery. It holds the world’s largest indoor statue. The Gundantegchinlen Monastery is the main temple. It features a 26.5-meter-high statue of Avalokiteśva. The presence when entering this temple is absolutely overwhelming.
I am the ultimate asshole. My friend asked me to not take pictures in this temple, but I did anyway. For that, I am eternally sorry. Since the time of taking the pictures posted here, I have learned a great deal more about the respect needed. I do believe, however, that this place should be shared. It ranks number one for multiple reasons. This is one of my worldwide must-go places. If only for the feeling of the presence that is here. It weighs on you and even teaches you things, about yourself. Go. Visit. Live. Learn. You will not regret it.
In Conclusion:
Whether I have or have not been to the places mentioned, I will stand by them regardless. Go and see for yourself. If I am wrong, then tell me. If I am right, then comment. Let me know what you think down below. Regardless, this is my opinion and I WILL be going back to visit again in the future. There are still things I need to see. Not only about the city, but the surrounding area. Also, about the country in general. Here are seven things to do in and around Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia.
6. Ceremonial Palace/City Hall Guards
If you think I am missing anywhere in or around Ulaanbaatar, let me know down below. If not, then let me know if you are going to be planning a trip yourself to the capital of Mongolia. Either way, we want to hear from you!
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