After fully immersing yourself in the things to do in Ulaanbaatar, from exploring the historic Gandan Monastery to witnessing traditional performances at the National Culture and Recreation Center, the journey doesn’t end within the city’s limits. Day trips from Ulaanbaatar offer a unique opportunity to explore Mongolia’s vast landscapes, rich history, and nomadic culture beyond the urban sprawl.
Venturing out from Ulaanbaatar, you’re invited to discover the wider array of things to do in Mongolia, such as visiting the majestic Gorkhi-Terelj National Park, exploring the ancient Erdene Zuu Monastery near Kharkhorin, or experiencing the stark beauty of the Gobi Desert. These excursions deepen your appreciation for Mongolia’s natural wonders and millennia-old cultural heritage.
Selecting where to stay in Ulaanbaatar is crucial for travelers looking to seamlessly combine city exploration with the expansive adventures awaiting in Mongolia’s countryside. A strategically located base in Ulaanbaatar not only provides comfort and convenience but also serves as a gateway to the country’s vast, untamed landscapes, ensuring a rich and varied travel experience.
Discover Best Day Trips from Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia
1. Gorkhi-Terelj National Park, Mongolia
Gorkhi-Terelj National Park, known for its scenic landscapes, rock formations, and nomadic culture, is a perfect place to experience Mongolia’s natural beauty. Activities include hiking, horseback riding, and visiting a traditional ger (yurt) camp.
Distance: Approximately 80 km
Travel Time: About 1.5 to 2 hours by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Scenic landscapes, rock formations, nomadic culture, hiking, horseback riding, traditional ger (yurt) camps
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Park Entrance: $3
- Horseback Riding: $10 per hour
Budget: Approximately $30-$60 (including transportation, entrance fees, and activities)
Scenic Spots: Turtle Rock, Aryabal Meditation Temple, Tuul River
Travel Tip: Dress in layers as the weather can change quickly, and consider staying overnight in a ger for a complete Mongolian experience.
2. Hustai National Park, Mongolia
Hustai National Park is renowned for its successful reintroduction of the Przewalski’s horse, also known as Takhi. Besides these wild horses, you can also spot red deer, marmots, and a variety of bird species.
Distance: Approximately 100 km
Travel Time: About 2 hours by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Przewalski’s horse (Takhi) reintroduction, wildlife viewing (red deer, marmots, bird species)
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Park Entrance: $5
- Wildlife Tour: $10
Budget: Approximately $30-$50 (including transportation, entrance fees, and activities)
Scenic Spots: Khustai Mountains, Tuul River
Travel Tip: Bring binoculars for wildlife viewing, and visit during the late afternoon for the best chances to see the Takhi horses.
3. Manzushir Monastery, Mongolia
Manzushir Monastery, located in the southern part of Bogd Khan Mountain, offers a mix of historical and natural attractions, including ruins of an old Buddhist monastery and a museum. The surrounding area is ideal for hiking and exploring.
Distance: Approximately 50 km
Travel Time: About 1 hour by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Ruins of an old Buddhist monastery, museum, hiking trails
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Monastery Entrance: $2
- Museum: $1
Budget: Approximately $10-$20 (including transportation, entrance fees, and activities)
Scenic Spots: Bogd Khan Mountain, surrounding hiking trails
Travel Tip: Wear good hiking shoes and explore the nearby trails to fully appreciate the natural beauty of the area.
4. Genghis Khan Statue Complex, Mongolia
The Genghis Khan Statue Complex, featuring a massive 40-meter tall statue of Genghis Khan on horseback, is one of Mongolia’s most iconic landmarks. The complex includes a museum and offers a panoramic view of the surrounding landscape from atop the horse’s head.
Distance: Approximately 55 km
Travel Time: About 1 to 1.5 hours by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: 40-meter tall statue of Genghis Khan on horseback, museum, panoramic views from the statue
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Complex Entrance: $5
- Museum: $3
Budget: Approximately $15-$30 (including transportation, entrance fees, and activities)
Scenic Spots: Statue complex, surrounding landscapes
Travel Tip: Climb to the head of the horse for a spectacular view, especially at sunset.
5. Khustai National Park, Mongolia
Khustai National Park, distinct from Hustai National Park, is another excellent location for seeing the Przewalski’s horses in their natural habitat. The park also offers beautiful hiking trails and rich biodiversity.
Distance: Approximately 100 km
Travel Time: About 2 hours by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Przewalski’s horses, hiking trails, rich biodiversity
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Park Entrance: $5
- Wildlife Tour: $10
Budget: Approximately $30-$50 (including transportation, entrance fees, and activities)
Scenic Spots: Khustai Mountains, diverse hiking trails
Travel Tip: Plan your visit in the early morning or late afternoon for wildlife spotting, as animals are more active during these times.
6. Terelj National Park, Mongolia
Terelj National Park, separate from Gorkhi-Terelj, is known for its unique rock formations, such as Turtle Rock, and the Aryabal Meditation Temple. The park offers a serene environment for hiking, horseback riding, and experiencing Mongolian nomadic culture.
Distance: Approximately 80 km
Travel Time: About 1.5 hours by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Unique rock formations, Turtle Rock, Aryabal Meditation Temple, hiking, horseback riding, nomadic culture
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Park Entrance: $3
- Horseback Riding: $10 per hour
Budget: Approximately $30-$60 (including transportation, entrance fees, and activities)
Scenic Spots: Turtle Rock, Tuul River, Aryabal Meditation Temple
Travel Tip: Try to visit the Aryabal Meditation Temple for a peaceful and spiritual experience.
7. 13th Century National Park, Mongolia
13th Century National Park is a cultural theme park that offers a unique opportunity to experience life in the time of Genghis Khan. It features different camps representing various aspects of 13th-century Mongolian culture, including crafts, education, and herding.
Distance: Approximately 110 km
Travel Time: About 2 hours by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Cultural theme park with camps representing 13th-century Mongolian culture, traditional activities (archery, horseback riding)
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Park Entrance: $10
- Archery: $5
- Horseback Riding: $10 per hour
Budget: Approximately $40-$70 (including transportation, entrance fees, and activities)
Scenic Spots: Themed camps, historical reenactments
Travel Tip: Participate in the traditional activities offered, like archery or horseback riding, for a hands-on historical experience.
8. Elsen Tasarkhai Sand Dunes, Mongolia
Elsen Tasarkhai, also known as the “Little Gobi,” is a small stretch of sand dunes located in central Mongolia. It’s a unique place where the desert meets the steppe, and activities include camel riding and sand dune trekking.
Distance: Approximately 280 km
Travel Time: About 4 hours by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Sand dunes, camel riding, sand dune trekking
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Dune Access: Free
- Camel Riding: $10 per hour
Budget: Approximately $40-$80 (including transportation, entrance fees, and activities)
Scenic Spots: Sand dunes, nearby steppes
Travel Tip: Bring a scarf or bandana to protect yourself from the sand, especially on windy days, and enjoy a camel ride for an authentic desert experience.
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FAQ About Best Day Trips from Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia
What are some recommended day trips from Ulaanbaatar?
Notable day trips from Ulaanbaatar include visits to the Genghis Khan Statue Complex, Terelj National Park, Hustai National Park, and the Manzushir Monastery ruins.
Is the Genghis Khan Statue Complex worth visiting?
Absolutely! The Genghis Khan Statue Complex, featuring a massive stainless steel statue of Genghis Khan on horseback, offers a deep dive into Mongolian history and culture, with panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
Can I explore Terelj National Park in a day?
Yes, Terelj National Park, known for its stunning natural beauty, rock formations, and nomadic culture, is easily accessible for a day trip. Activities include hiking, horseback riding, and visiting a traditional Ger (yurt).
What wildlife can I see in Hustai National Park?
Hustai National Park is home to the reintroduced Przewalski’s horse, also known as the Takhi. It’s a great place for wildlife spotting, with opportunities to see red deer, marmots, and various bird species.
Are there cultural experiences available near Ulaanbaatar?
Yes, many tours offer immersive cultural experiences, such as visiting nomadic families, learning about traditional Mongolian lifestyle, participating in archery, and trying local delicacies like airag (fermented mare’s milk).
Is a visit to the Manzushir Monastery ruins recommended?
Definitely! Located in the southern part of Bogd Khan Uul National Park, the ruins of Manzushir Monastery are surrounded by beautiful nature. It’s a peaceful spot for hiking and learning about Mongolia’s Buddhist heritage.
Can I experience traditional Mongolian archery on a day trip?
Yes, several tours from Ulaanbaatar include traditional Mongolian archery demonstrations or lessons, offering a hands-on experience with Mongolia’s ancient sport.
Are there guided tours to the Gobi Desert from Ulaanbaatar?
While the Gobi Desert is too far for a day trip, there are longer tours available that start from Ulaanbaatar. These multi-day excursions offer a comprehensive experience of the desert’s unique landscape and nomadic culture.
Sources:
https://www.getyourguide.com/ulaanbaatar-l968?activity_type=dayTrip
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