Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Be particularly vigilant on Peace Ave between the Central Post Office and the State
Department Store, or other main streets where tourists wander. Pickpockets also target
public buses and the Naran Tuul Market. Keep an eye on your bag when sitting in cafes.
Be very careful around the stadium during Naadam.
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Pickpockets often work in teams. One perpetrator may distract you while his friend
picks your pocket.
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Leave passports, credit cards, large amounts of cash and valuables locked up in your
hotel (preferably in a safe). Just carry the cash you need for food, admission fees and in-
cidentals. Carry this small cash in a shirt pocket rather than a trouser pocket.
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If carrying a backpack, clip the zippers together with a luggage lock or caribiner.
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Money belts are handy but not fail-safe (thieves might slice the belt with a razor).
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If you are a robbed, you may need to file a report with the police to satisfy your insur-
ance company. Immediately report the incident to the Department of Pickpockets, a divi-
sion of the police, located in the police office on the block west of the Russian embassy.
Violent Crime
Reports of violence against foreigners have increased in recent years. The problem often
occurs in or near a bar and alcohol often contributes to the problem. When moving about
at night, stick to well-lit streets and do so with a group of friends - there is safety in num-
bers. Sexual assault against foreign women is rare and local women walk around at night,
often alone, though it's not a great idea because of pickpockets.
Some foreigners have reported being assaulted and robbed in a taxi. Use an official
taxi - as opposed to a private vehicle - late at night.
Alcoholism
Alcoholism is a problem in Ulaanbaatar, especially among out-of-work middle-aged and
older Mongolian men. It's worse around Naadam time, but drunks are usually more an-
noying than dangerous.
Traffic
Probably the most dangerous thing you can do in Ulaanbaatar is cross the street. Pedes-
trians are given no special treatment so expect that you could get run over at any given
moment. The zebra crossings are not safe either because at some intersections the right-
turn arrow and the pedestrian arrow turn green simultaneously, so as you step into the
crosswalk a car will come around the corner into your path. Look out!
Other Annoyances
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Some stairwells aren't lit, so a small torch (flashlight) is handy. Blackouts and hot-wa-
ter shortages are common throughout the year.
