Ulaanbaatar Introduction Walking Tour (Self Guided), Ulaanbaatar
Nestled in the valley of the Tuul River surrounded by four sacred mountains, the capital of Mongolia, Ulaanbaatar, is the political and economic heart of the nation and a repository of Mongolian culture. The name "Ulaanbaatar" translates to "Red Hero," a title bestowed in 1924 to honor Mongolia's independence from China, facilitated by Soviet support.
Historically, the city emerged as a nomadic Buddhist monastic center in 1639 and was known initially as Urga (meaning "Palace-yurt"). The city changed locations 28 times before it permanently settled at its current site in 1778. The capital was central to Mongolia's independence movements, notably during the collapse of the Qing Dynasty in China in 1911 and the 1921 communist revolution, leading to the establishment of the Mongolian People's Republic. Post-1950s, Soviet-style urban planning replaced traditional ger districts (consisting of detached traditional mobile dwellings – gers). In 1990, the city became the cradle of Mongolia's democratic and economic reforms.
The old part of Ulaanbaatar is a blend of historical textures and layers of the city's past. Here, sites like Sükhbaatar Square pay homage to the revolutionary leader Damdin Sükhbaatar, who declared independence from China in 1921. Flanked by significant structures like the Government Palace, this square serves as a central hub for civic gatherings and national celebrations.
Adjacent to it is the Mongolian State Academic Theatre of Opera and Ballet, an eminent cultural institution since 1963. A short walk across the square leads to the National Museum of Mongolia, which showcases artifacts narrating the saga of Mongolia's past, from the era of the Great Mongol Empire to contemporary times.
Peace Avenue, the main thoroughfare, is the city's lifeline, bustling with activity and bordered by various shops, restaurants, and cafes.
For those intrigued by more recent cultural influences, Beatles Square and Monument is a testament to the city's eclectic tastes, celebrating the global influence of the legendary British band. Additionally, spiritual tranquility can be found at the Gandan Monastery and Geser Sum Monastery—centers of Tibetan Buddhism that offer a glimpse into the spiritual practices woven into Mongolian societal fabric for centuries.
Ulaanbaatar offers a unique journey through the heritage of Mongolia. Visitors are encouraged to immerse themselves in the tapestry of history and culture found here and experience the warmth of Mongolian hospitality by taking this self-guided walk.
Historically, the city emerged as a nomadic Buddhist monastic center in 1639 and was known initially as Urga (meaning "Palace-yurt"). The city changed locations 28 times before it permanently settled at its current site in 1778. The capital was central to Mongolia's independence movements, notably during the collapse of the Qing Dynasty in China in 1911 and the 1921 communist revolution, leading to the establishment of the Mongolian People's Republic. Post-1950s, Soviet-style urban planning replaced traditional ger districts (consisting of detached traditional mobile dwellings – gers). In 1990, the city became the cradle of Mongolia's democratic and economic reforms.
The old part of Ulaanbaatar is a blend of historical textures and layers of the city's past. Here, sites like Sükhbaatar Square pay homage to the revolutionary leader Damdin Sükhbaatar, who declared independence from China in 1921. Flanked by significant structures like the Government Palace, this square serves as a central hub for civic gatherings and national celebrations.
Adjacent to it is the Mongolian State Academic Theatre of Opera and Ballet, an eminent cultural institution since 1963. A short walk across the square leads to the National Museum of Mongolia, which showcases artifacts narrating the saga of Mongolia's past, from the era of the Great Mongol Empire to contemporary times.
Peace Avenue, the main thoroughfare, is the city's lifeline, bustling with activity and bordered by various shops, restaurants, and cafes.
For those intrigued by more recent cultural influences, Beatles Square and Monument is a testament to the city's eclectic tastes, celebrating the global influence of the legendary British band. Additionally, spiritual tranquility can be found at the Gandan Monastery and Geser Sum Monastery—centers of Tibetan Buddhism that offer a glimpse into the spiritual practices woven into Mongolian societal fabric for centuries.
Ulaanbaatar offers a unique journey through the heritage of Mongolia. Visitors are encouraged to immerse themselves in the tapestry of history and culture found here and experience the warmth of Mongolian hospitality by taking this self-guided walk.
How it works: Download the app "GPSmyCity: Walks in 1K+ Cities" from Apple App Store or Google Play Store to your mobile phone or tablet. The app turns your mobile device into a personal tour guide and its built-in GPS navigation functions guide you from one tour stop to next. The app works offline, so no data plan is needed when traveling abroad.
Download The GPSmyCity App
Ulaanbaatar Introduction Walking Tour Map
Guide Name: Ulaanbaatar Introduction Walking Tour
Guide Location: Mongolia » Ulaanbaatar (See other walking tours in Ulaanbaatar)
Guide Type: Self-guided Walking Tour (Sightseeing)
# of Attractions: 9
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.8 Km or 2.4 Miles
Author: leticia
Sight(s) Featured in This Guide:
Guide Location: Mongolia » Ulaanbaatar (See other walking tours in Ulaanbaatar)
Guide Type: Self-guided Walking Tour (Sightseeing)
# of Attractions: 9
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.8 Km or 2.4 Miles
Author: leticia
Sight(s) Featured in This Guide:
- Sükhbaatar Square
- Mongolian State Academic Theatre of Opera and Ballet
- Galleria Ulaanbaatar
- Government Palace
- National Museum of Mongolia
- Peace Avenue
- Beatles Square and Monument
- Geser Sum Monastery
- Gandan Monastery
1) Sükhbaatar Square (must see)
Sükhbaatar Square serves as a central hub of civic and historical significance. Named after Damdin Sükhbaatar, the leader of Mongolia’s 1921 revolution, the square features an impressive statue of him, commemorating his pivotal role in Mongolia’s struggle for independence. The square is strategically located in front of the Saaral Ordon, the official residence of the President of Mongolia.
Dominating the square's northern edge is the Government Palace, an imposing structure built in 1951 that houses the offices of the Mongolian government. Adjacent to it are several key buildings, including the Golomt Bank, the Central Post Office, and the Culture Palace, each contributing to the square’s vibrant atmosphere. Previously, the Sükhbaatar Mausoleum also stood on the square until its removal in 2005.
The square is not only a political and administrative center but also a cultural landmark. In addition to the statue of Sükhbaatar, it is adorned with other notable sculptures, including those of Genghis Khan and his generals, prominently displayed in front of the Government House.
Sükhbaatar Square is a focal point for both locals and visitors, offering a glimpse into Mongolia’s revolutionary past and its present-day significance. It remains a key site for national events and gatherings, reflecting the rich cultural and historical tapestry of Ulaanbaatar.
Dominating the square's northern edge is the Government Palace, an imposing structure built in 1951 that houses the offices of the Mongolian government. Adjacent to it are several key buildings, including the Golomt Bank, the Central Post Office, and the Culture Palace, each contributing to the square’s vibrant atmosphere. Previously, the Sükhbaatar Mausoleum also stood on the square until its removal in 2005.
The square is not only a political and administrative center but also a cultural landmark. In addition to the statue of Sükhbaatar, it is adorned with other notable sculptures, including those of Genghis Khan and his generals, prominently displayed in front of the Government House.
Sükhbaatar Square is a focal point for both locals and visitors, offering a glimpse into Mongolia’s revolutionary past and its present-day significance. It remains a key site for national events and gatherings, reflecting the rich cultural and historical tapestry of Ulaanbaatar.
2) Mongolian State Academic Theatre of Opera and Ballet
The National Academic Theatre of Opera and Ballet of Mongolia, often referred to as the Ulaanbaatar Opera House, stands as a premier cultural institution in Mongolia. The opera house is built in a neoclassical style. Opened on May 15, 1963, with a grand ceremony featuring Tchaikovsky’s Eugene Onegin, the theatre quickly established itself as a cornerstone of the country’s performing arts scene. Its inception marked a significant development in Mongolia's cultural landscape, building upon earlier theatrical traditions that began with the establishment of the National Central Theatre in 1931.
The theatre's repertoire is a vibrant mix of classical and national performances, offering audiences a range of experiences from beloved ballet classics such as Swan Lake and The Nutcracker to renowned operas like Madama Butterfly and La Bohème. This blend of Western and traditional performances reflects the theatre’s role in bridging cultural influences while honoring local artistic heritage.
Designed to foster the growth of professional theatre in Mongolia, the theatre serves as a hub for both local and international artists, providing a stage for celebrated works and innovative performances. Its contributions to Mongolia's cultural life extend beyond performances, supporting the ongoing evolution of the nation’s artistic expressions.
The theatre's repertoire is a vibrant mix of classical and national performances, offering audiences a range of experiences from beloved ballet classics such as Swan Lake and The Nutcracker to renowned operas like Madama Butterfly and La Bohème. This blend of Western and traditional performances reflects the theatre’s role in bridging cultural influences while honoring local artistic heritage.
Designed to foster the growth of professional theatre in Mongolia, the theatre serves as a hub for both local and international artists, providing a stage for celebrated works and innovative performances. Its contributions to Mongolia's cultural life extend beyond performances, supporting the ongoing evolution of the nation’s artistic expressions.
3) Galleria Ulaanbaatar
Situated at the heart of Ulaanbaatar, Galleria Ulaanbaatar is renowned for housing the largest cashmere emporium, showcasing the finest and most eco-friendly luxury material, a hallmark of Mongolian craftsmanship.
The Galleria souvenir store offers a comprehensive array of over 4000 products from 200 local manufacturers, providing an unparalleled glimpse into Mongolian customs and traditions. Culinary enthusiasts can indulge in a diverse culinary experience at the food court, featuring renowned international eateries alongside local favorites.
Practical amenities such as dedicated visitor parking and comprehensive banking services further enhance the convenience of the center. The presence of acclaimed Mongolian fashion boutiques adds a touch of sophistication, blending European style with traditional Mongolian elements.
During the summer months, the center comes alive with daily shows and cultural events, offering visitors a firsthand insight into Mongolian livelihood.
The Galleria souvenir store offers a comprehensive array of over 4000 products from 200 local manufacturers, providing an unparalleled glimpse into Mongolian customs and traditions. Culinary enthusiasts can indulge in a diverse culinary experience at the food court, featuring renowned international eateries alongside local favorites.
Practical amenities such as dedicated visitor parking and comprehensive banking services further enhance the convenience of the center. The presence of acclaimed Mongolian fashion boutiques adds a touch of sophistication, blending European style with traditional Mongolian elements.
During the summer months, the center comes alive with daily shows and cultural events, offering visitors a firsthand insight into Mongolian livelihood.
4) Government Palace
The Government Palace, prominently situated on the north side of Sükhbaatar Square, is a striking example of Mongolia's blend of historical and contemporary architecture. This grand edifice serves as a key administrative and ceremonial building, embodying a fusion of traditional Mongolian elements with modern design. The building's vibrant colors and intricate decorations make it a focal point of the city's architectural landscape.
A notable feature of the Government Palace is its impressive façade, unveiled in the summer of 2006 to mark the 800th anniversary of the Great Mongol State. The centerpiece of this façade is the monumental statue of Chinggis Khaan, Mongolia’s revered founder, which is prominently displayed under a large rectangular glass cupola. Supported by four white marble columns with gold capitals, this central structure is flanked by additional colonnades and glass walls, creating a harmonious blend of grandeur and transparency. The statue is surrounded by seated statues of Chinggis Khaan’s third son, Ugudei Khaan, and his grandson, Khubilai Khaan, who are positioned in loggias on either side of the complex.
The Government Palace’s architecture reflects Mongolia's rich cultural heritage and its journey towards modernity. The design integrates classical Mongolian elements with contemporary architectural practices, symbolizing the nation's evolution and the values that underpin its governance. The large ceremonial ger within the inner courtyard further emphasizes the blend of traditional Mongolian customs with the building’s modern functions.
In front of the Government Palace, a large open stairway leads up to the statue of Chinggis Khaan, flanked by two statues of warriors on horseback. The inscription on the pedestal of the statue reads, “The founder of the Great Mongol State heavenly ruler Chinggis Khaan,” encapsulating the significance of this historical figure in Mongolia's national identity. The Government Palace stands not only as a governmental hub but also as a monument to the enduring legacy of Mongolia’s past and its aspirations for the future.
A notable feature of the Government Palace is its impressive façade, unveiled in the summer of 2006 to mark the 800th anniversary of the Great Mongol State. The centerpiece of this façade is the monumental statue of Chinggis Khaan, Mongolia’s revered founder, which is prominently displayed under a large rectangular glass cupola. Supported by four white marble columns with gold capitals, this central structure is flanked by additional colonnades and glass walls, creating a harmonious blend of grandeur and transparency. The statue is surrounded by seated statues of Chinggis Khaan’s third son, Ugudei Khaan, and his grandson, Khubilai Khaan, who are positioned in loggias on either side of the complex.
The Government Palace’s architecture reflects Mongolia's rich cultural heritage and its journey towards modernity. The design integrates classical Mongolian elements with contemporary architectural practices, symbolizing the nation's evolution and the values that underpin its governance. The large ceremonial ger within the inner courtyard further emphasizes the blend of traditional Mongolian customs with the building’s modern functions.
In front of the Government Palace, a large open stairway leads up to the statue of Chinggis Khaan, flanked by two statues of warriors on horseback. The inscription on the pedestal of the statue reads, “The founder of the Great Mongol State heavenly ruler Chinggis Khaan,” encapsulating the significance of this historical figure in Mongolia's national identity. The Government Palace stands not only as a governmental hub but also as a monument to the enduring legacy of Mongolia’s past and its aspirations for the future.
5) National Museum of Mongolia (must see)
The National Museum of Mongolia, previously known as the National Museum of Mongolian History, stands as a vital institution for the preservation and interpretation of Mongolia's cultural and historical heritage. Established through the merger of the historical, archaeological, and ethnographical departments of the State Central Museum and the Museum of the Revolution in 1991, the museum is located in the facility originally built for the Museum of the Revolution, founded in 1971. This transition marked a significant evolution in Mongolia's museological landscape, consolidating various historical artifacts and narratives into a single, comprehensive institution.
The museum's origins trace back to 1924 with the establishment of the Mongolian National Museum, which laid the groundwork for the National Museum of Mongolia. The modern museum now serves as a cultural, scientific, and educational organization responsible for the collection, care, and interpretation of Mongolian artifacts. It holds a vast array of objects that span Mongolia’s rich history, including archaeological finds, ethnographic items, and historical documents.
The National Museum of Mongolia plays a crucial role in safeguarding the nation's cultural heritage. It is recognized as one of Mongolia's leading museums, dedicated to preserving and showcasing the country’s historical and cultural legacy. Visitors to the museum can explore various exhibits that highlight Mongolia’s diverse history, from ancient times through the revolutionary era.
The museum's origins trace back to 1924 with the establishment of the Mongolian National Museum, which laid the groundwork for the National Museum of Mongolia. The modern museum now serves as a cultural, scientific, and educational organization responsible for the collection, care, and interpretation of Mongolian artifacts. It holds a vast array of objects that span Mongolia’s rich history, including archaeological finds, ethnographic items, and historical documents.
The National Museum of Mongolia plays a crucial role in safeguarding the nation's cultural heritage. It is recognized as one of Mongolia's leading museums, dedicated to preserving and showcasing the country’s historical and cultural legacy. Visitors to the museum can explore various exhibits that highlight Mongolia’s diverse history, from ancient times through the revolutionary era.
6) Peace Avenue
Peace Avenue is one of Ulaanbaatar’s most prominent and significant thoroughfares, stretching across the heart of Mongolia’s capital. As a major street, it serves as a central artery connecting various important areas of the city and is lined with a mix of modern buildings, shops, and government institutions. Peace Avenue plays a crucial role in Ulaanbaatar's urban landscape, reflecting the city’s growth and modernization while also serving as a hub of activity and commerce.
The avenue is notable for its wide expanse and well-maintained sidewalks, which accommodate the heavy pedestrian and vehicular traffic typical of a bustling capital city. The street is flanked by several key landmarks and institutions, including government buildings, cultural centers, and historical sites.
Peace Avenue is also home to a variety of retail establishments, restaurants, and cafes, offering both locals and visitors a vibrant shopping and dining experience. Its strategic location and accessibility make it a popular destination for residents and tourists alike, providing a glimpse into the dynamic urban life of Ulaanbaatar. The avenue’s lively atmosphere is complemented by its role in hosting public events and celebrations, further cementing its status as a central and influential part of the city.
The avenue is notable for its wide expanse and well-maintained sidewalks, which accommodate the heavy pedestrian and vehicular traffic typical of a bustling capital city. The street is flanked by several key landmarks and institutions, including government buildings, cultural centers, and historical sites.
Peace Avenue is also home to a variety of retail establishments, restaurants, and cafes, offering both locals and visitors a vibrant shopping and dining experience. Its strategic location and accessibility make it a popular destination for residents and tourists alike, providing a glimpse into the dynamic urban life of Ulaanbaatar. The avenue’s lively atmosphere is complemented by its role in hosting public events and celebrations, further cementing its status as a central and influential part of the city.
7) Beatles Square and Monument
Beatles Square, nestled between the State Department Store and the Circus in Ulaanbaatar, offers a vibrant urban space enriched by cultural significance. Its unofficial name stems from the prominent monument dedicated to The Beatles, featuring bronze statues of John Lennon, Paul McCartney, George Harrison, and Ringo Starr. Notably, Paul McCartney is depicted barefoot, a reference to the iconic image of the Fab Four. The other side of the monument showcases a bronze sculpture of a young man sitting in a stairwell, strumming a guitar—a nostalgic nod to the 1970s when Mongolian youths gathered in apartment stairwells to sing Beatles songs, inspired by contraband records from Eastern Europe.
The square serves as a lively gathering spot, surrounded by a mix of cafes, restaurants, and cashmere shops. In the summer, it becomes a popular destination where locals and visitors alike enjoy the fountains and the vibrant atmosphere. The presence of the Beatles monument adds a unique cultural layer to the square, reflecting the enduring impact of Western music on Mongolian youth during a time of limited exposure to such influences.
In August 2017, the square became the focal point of a local protest against plans to demolish it for commercial development. The outcry highlighted the square's importance to the community, and while the future of the surrounding development remains uncertain, the Beatles statue is expected to remain a cherished landmark. This protest underscores the square's role as a cultural and historical symbol in Ulaanbaatar, preserving the spirit of a bygone era and its connection to global cultural icons.
The square serves as a lively gathering spot, surrounded by a mix of cafes, restaurants, and cashmere shops. In the summer, it becomes a popular destination where locals and visitors alike enjoy the fountains and the vibrant atmosphere. The presence of the Beatles monument adds a unique cultural layer to the square, reflecting the enduring impact of Western music on Mongolian youth during a time of limited exposure to such influences.
In August 2017, the square became the focal point of a local protest against plans to demolish it for commercial development. The outcry highlighted the square's importance to the community, and while the future of the surrounding development remains uncertain, the Beatles statue is expected to remain a cherished landmark. This protest underscores the square's role as a cultural and historical symbol in Ulaanbaatar, preserving the spirit of a bygone era and its connection to global cultural icons.
8) Geser Sum Monastery
Geser Sum Monastery, also known as West Geser Sum, stands as a remarkable testament to Mongolia’s diverse cultural and religious heritage. Constructed between 1919 and 1920 by Guve Zakhar, a practitioner of the Blue religion (Chinese Taoist Buddhism), this monastery occupies a central location in Ulaanbaatar, nestled on the south side of the hill with Dasgan Ovoo. Established during the Manchu era, the monastery was funded by Chinese merchants, resulting in a unique architectural fusion that blends Mongolian Buddhism with elements of Chinese Buddhism and Taoism.
The design of Geser Sum reflects a distinct stylistic Chinese influence, yet it incorporates Mongolian Buddhist elements and indigenous shamanistic motifs. This eclectic blend highlights the monastery’s role as a crossroads of various religious and cultural traditions. Notably, Geser Sum remains one of the few monasteries in Ulaanbaatar that has not been overshadowed by urban development, preserving its historical and cultural significance amidst the city’s rapid modernization.
Following its closure in 1933 when the government repurposed it for the Border Army Song and Dance Ensemble, Geser Sum avoided the widespread destruction of Buddhist sites during the communist era. After the end of communist rule in 1990, the monastery resumed its function as a Buddhist temple. However, the site has suffered from neglect, theft, and the pressures of nearby development, affecting its condition.
In recent years, efforts have been made to restore Geser Sum through a collaboration between the post-communist government and the Buddhist community. The ongoing initiative aims to preserve Geser Sum as a vital part of Mongolia’s spiritual and historical landscape.
The design of Geser Sum reflects a distinct stylistic Chinese influence, yet it incorporates Mongolian Buddhist elements and indigenous shamanistic motifs. This eclectic blend highlights the monastery’s role as a crossroads of various religious and cultural traditions. Notably, Geser Sum remains one of the few monasteries in Ulaanbaatar that has not been overshadowed by urban development, preserving its historical and cultural significance amidst the city’s rapid modernization.
Following its closure in 1933 when the government repurposed it for the Border Army Song and Dance Ensemble, Geser Sum avoided the widespread destruction of Buddhist sites during the communist era. After the end of communist rule in 1990, the monastery resumed its function as a Buddhist temple. However, the site has suffered from neglect, theft, and the pressures of nearby development, affecting its condition.
In recent years, efforts have been made to restore Geser Sum through a collaboration between the post-communist government and the Buddhist community. The ongoing initiative aims to preserve Geser Sum as a vital part of Mongolia’s spiritual and historical landscape.
9) Gandan Monastery (must see)
The Gandantegchinlen Monastery, commonly known as Gandan, is a significant Tibetan Buddhist monastery located in the heart of Ulaanbaatar. Established in 1835 by the Fifth Jebtsundamba, who was Mongolia’s highest reincarnated lama at the time, Gandan translates to "Great Place of Complete Joy." Since the end of communist rule in 1990, the monastery has undergone extensive restoration and revitalization, reestablishing itself as a central hub of Buddhist learning and practice in Mongolia.
The monastery is renowned for its impressive 26.5-meter-high statue of Migjid Janraisig, also known as Avalokitesvara, a bodhisattva embodying compassion. This monumental figure, made from copper sourced from Erdenet and adorned with numerous precious stones, weighs over 20 tons. The statue stands as a symbol of spiritual guidance, representing the path to Truth and enlightenment. The statue's grandeur and the monastery's serene atmosphere make it a focal point of worship and veneration.
The Gandan Monastery complex includes Zanabazar Buddhist University, which serves as a center for advanced studies in Buddhist philosophy, as well as three temples dedicated to the veneration of Avalokiteshvara. It also hosts three colleges focused on Buddhist philosophy, a College of Medicine and Astrology, and two Tantric Colleges. The monastery is a vibrant center of activity, attracting locals from the countryside who visit in traditional costumes to donate, pray, and participate in daily rituals.
Visiting Gandan Monastery offers a peaceful retreat from the bustling city life of Ulaanbaatar. Despite its lack of heating, the monastery remains a tranquil sanctuary year-round. The lively morning services, complete with drumming, chanting, and cymbals, provide a deeply immersive spiritual experience, while the giant Buddha and its surrounding environment create a serene and atmospheric setting. Just a short walk from Sükhbaatar Square, Gandan is a must-visit for anyone seeking to connect with Mongolia’s rich Buddhist heritage and find solace amidst the city’s hustle and bustle.
The monastery is renowned for its impressive 26.5-meter-high statue of Migjid Janraisig, also known as Avalokitesvara, a bodhisattva embodying compassion. This monumental figure, made from copper sourced from Erdenet and adorned with numerous precious stones, weighs over 20 tons. The statue stands as a symbol of spiritual guidance, representing the path to Truth and enlightenment. The statue's grandeur and the monastery's serene atmosphere make it a focal point of worship and veneration.
The Gandan Monastery complex includes Zanabazar Buddhist University, which serves as a center for advanced studies in Buddhist philosophy, as well as three temples dedicated to the veneration of Avalokiteshvara. It also hosts three colleges focused on Buddhist philosophy, a College of Medicine and Astrology, and two Tantric Colleges. The monastery is a vibrant center of activity, attracting locals from the countryside who visit in traditional costumes to donate, pray, and participate in daily rituals.
Visiting Gandan Monastery offers a peaceful retreat from the bustling city life of Ulaanbaatar. Despite its lack of heating, the monastery remains a tranquil sanctuary year-round. The lively morning services, complete with drumming, chanting, and cymbals, provide a deeply immersive spiritual experience, while the giant Buddha and its surrounding environment create a serene and atmospheric setting. Just a short walk from Sükhbaatar Square, Gandan is a must-visit for anyone seeking to connect with Mongolia’s rich Buddhist heritage and find solace amidst the city’s hustle and bustle.
The Most Popular Cities
/ view all