How to get to Ulaanbaatar

Ulaanbaatar is the dynamic heart of Mongolia, situated in the picturesque valley of the Tuul River, where modern glass skyscrapers stand alongside traditional Buddhist temples and yurts. As the coldest capital city in the world, it serves as the country's main transport hub, connecting the boundless steppes with the outside world. You can reach Ulaanbaatar in various ways: fly directly to the international airport, arrive by train along the legendary trans-continental railway, or embark on a road trip from neighbouring regions.

The main air gateway to the capital is Chinggis Khaan International Airport, located some distance from the city centre. This modern aviation hub receives the majority of international flights and ensures a comfortable arrival for tourists wishing to visit Ulaanbaatar.

For travellers planning a complex route, nearby Russian cities with airports can serve as convenient transfer points: Ulan-Ude (about 440 km away) and Irkutsk (about 520 km away). A flight to these cities followed by a transfer is often chosen as an alternative way to reach Mongolia.

A railway journey to Ulaanbaatar is a tourism classic, allowing you to enjoy the changing landscapes from the Siberian taiga to the Mongolian steppes. The main flow of trains arrives from Russia through major transport hubs — Ulan-Ude and Irkutsk, which are key stations on the way to the Mongolian capital.

There is also the possibility of arriving by train from the southern direction if you are travelling within the country, for example, from the city of Dalanzadgad. Travelling by rail offers a unique experience of slow travel and allows you to see the authentic life of the region even before arriving in the city.

Bus services connect Ulaanbaatar with border cities and remote aimags (provinces), offering a budget-friendly option for movement. Although the exact schedule of international routes may change, there are routes that allow you to reach the city from neighbouring regions, covering significant distances across steppe roads.

Travelling by bus requires endurance, as travel time often exceeds 10–12 hours depending on the departure point. This method is suitable for experienced tourists wishing to save money and see the non-touristic side of Mongolia from the vehicle window.

A trip by car to Ulaanbaatar is a true adventure for fans of auto tourism. One of the most popular routes is the path from the city of Ulan-Ude: the distance is about 583 km, and the drive takes approximately 8.5 hours, passing through picturesque mountain passes and steppes.

For those ready for a longer journey, the route from the city of Irkutsk, with a length of over 1020 km (about 15 hours on the road), is suitable. Travellers exploring the Gobi Desert often arrive in the capital from the south, from the city of Dalanzadgad, covering 587 km in approximately 7.5 hours.

A trip to Ulaanbaatar requires certain preparation, as the city combines features of nomadic culture and modern urbanisation. To ensure your journey is comfortable, familiarise yourself with these key recommendations.

1. Clothing and Climate: The weather here is unpredictable. Even in summer, nights can be cool, so the principle of layering is mandatory. In winter, extremely warm clothing and wind protection are necessary.
2. Transport Nuances: The city has heavy traffic jams. For movement, it is better to use official taxi apps or walk in the centre. Be careful on the roads: pedestrians are not always given the right of way.
3. Finances: The national currency is the Tugrik. Cards are accepted in large shops and restaurants, but for markets and small stalls, be sure to carry cash.
4. Health: In the winter period, the city suffers from smog, so people with respiratory conditions should bring protective masks. In summer, the air is clean and fresh.
5. Etiquette: Accept and offer items (money, food) only with your right hand (or both hands). Stepping on the threshold of a yurt or house is considered bad manners.
6. Language: Young people in the centre often speak English, while the older generation may understand Russian. Learn a couple of words, for example, "Sain baina uu" (Hello), as this will endear you to the locals.
7. Safety: Avoid unlit outskirts after dark and watch your pockets in crowded places, such as the Naran-Tuul market.

Observing these simple rules will help you adapt faster and get the most pleasure from the hospitality and atmosphere of the Mongolian capital.