Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia

Ulaanbaatar, also known as Ulan Bator, is the largest city and the capital of Mongolia, a country in northeastern Asia located north of China. Its name means “Red Hero” in the Mongolian language. Ulaanbaatar is the administrative center of the Capital City Territory and has a special, independent administrative status.

The city is located in the northern part of the country and lies at a high elevation, averaging over 4,400 feet above sea level. Ulaanbaatar is set in a wide and scenic valley along the Tuul River, surrounded by mountainous landscapes and close to major natural park areas. Beijing, the capital of China, is located about 730 miles southeast of Ulaanbaatar, while Irkutsk in Russia lies around 330 miles northwest of the city.

Ulaanbaatar is the main center of transportation, business, and economic activity in modern Mongolia. It is also the country’s leading historical, educational, and cultural hub, home to universities, museums, monasteries, temples, schools, and many important landmarks. For visitors interested in Mongolian culture and lifestyle, Ulaanbaatar is the primary tourist destination.

The city is easily accessible by air via Chinggis Khaan International Airport, located about 20 miles southwest of the city center. Ulaanbaatar offers numerous hotels and dining options. Many tourists also enjoy spending time in nearby natural attractions, such as the Bogd Khan Uul Strictly Protected Area to the south of the city and Gorkhi-Terelj National Park to the northeast.