Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Ulaanbaatar
011, 021, 051, 7035 / POP 1,287,100 / AREA 1368 SQ KM
Why Go?
If Mongolia's yin is its pristine countryside, then Ulaanbaatar (UB) conforms nicely to its
yang. An enormous city of pulsating commerce, wild traffic, sinful nightlife and bohemian
counter-culture, the Mongolian capital elicits as much shock as it does excitement. The
contrasts within the city can be exasperating too: Armani-suited businessmen rub
shoulders with mohawked punks and
del
-clad nomads fresh off the steppes. One minute
you're dodging the path of a Hummer H2 and the next you're mystified by groaning
Buddhist monks at Gandan Khiid. It's a wild place that bursts into life after slumbering
through a long winter. This chaotic capital is not the easiest city to navigate, but with a
little patience, travellers can take care of all their logistical needs, watch traditional
theatre, sample international cuisine and party till three in the morning. This ever-chan-
ging city may be the biggest surprise of your Mongolian adventure.
When to Go
Early Jun
Get giddy on Children's Day and then run the Mongolia Marathon.
Mid-Jul
The city comes to a halt for Naadam and its wrestling, archery and horse racing.
