Family-Friendly Adventures in Ulaanbaatar!

Sükhbaatar Square (Genghis Khan Square)

Why Visit?

Embark on an exciting family adventure at Sükhbaatar Square, now renamed Genghis Khan Square, located in the heart of Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia. This expansive, historical square is not just a tribute to Mongolia"s legendary founder, Genghis Khan, but also a vibrant hub of culture, history, and architecture that will captivate visitors of all ages.

Morning: Arrival and Exploration

Start your day early to enjoy the square"s majestic atmosphere with fewer crowds. You can easily reach the square by taxi or public transportation from anywhere in Ulaanbaatar. Upon arrival, take a moment to admire the grand statue of Damdin Sükhbaatar, the revolutionary hero who declared Mongolia"s independence from China in 1921, after whom the square was originally named.

Mid-Morning: Genghis Khan Statue

Next, head to the imposing statue of Genghis Khan, situated at the front of the Government Palace. This is a perfect spot for family photos! Share with your kids the fascinating story of Genghis Khan’s role in Mongolian history, explaining how he united the Mongol tribes and established a vast empire. Each detail of the statue and the surrounding architectural ensemble tells a story of Mongolia’s rich heritage.

Lunchtime: Local Cuisine

For lunch, walk to one of the nearby restaurants to try traditional Mongolian dishes like buuz (steamed dumplings) or khuushuur (fried flat dumplings), which are both kid-friendly and delicious.

Afternoon: Museum Visits

Post-lunch, visit the Mongolian National Modern Art Gallery, located at the northwest corner of the square. Engage with Mongolia"s artistic expressions and discuss the colorful paintings and sculptures with your kids, fostering a deeper appreciation of the culture.

Late Afternoon: Relax and Play

Conclude your day by relaxing at one of the square’s many benches, watching pigeons, or letting the kids play around the spacious, open area. The square often hosts various public events and performances, so you might catch a cultural show or a concert, adding a memorable end to your day.

This family-friendly itinerary will leave you with a deeper understanding and appreciation of Mongolia’s past and present, creating lasting memories for you and your children.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Gandantegchinlen Monastery (Gandan Khiid)

Why Visit?

Family-Friendly Itinerary: Gandantegchinlen Monastery (Gandan Khiid), Ulaanbaatar

Morning

Start your day early and head to the Gandantegchinlen Monastery, one of Mongolia"s most important and largest functioning Buddhist monasteries, renowned for its rich history since 1838. To get there, take a taxi or a public bus from the city center, which is a convenient and quick way to reach. The monastery opens at 9 AM, perfect for an early start.

Guided Tour of the Monastery (9:30 AM - 11:00 AM)

Join a guided tour available at the entrance. The tour gives an in-depth look into the monastery"s history and architectural significance. Marvel at the impressive statue of Migjid Janraisig, a bodhisattva embodiment of compassion, which stands 26.5-meters tall and is adorned with precious stones and metals. Engaging stories about Buddhism in Mongolia will fascinate both the kids and adults.

Lunch Break (11:30 AM - 12:30 PM)

Have lunch at a nearby local restaurant. Try traditional Mongolian dishes such as Khuushuur (fried dumplings) or Tsuivan (noodles stew), which are both delicious and kid-friendly.

Afternoon Activities

Post-lunch, participate in a meditation session usually held for visitors. It"s a great way for the family to learn mindfulness and relaxation techniques. Later, stroll through the monastery grounds. Don"t miss the chance to interact with resident monks; some might speak English and can share interesting tales or insights into their daily lives.

Visit the Monastery Library (2:00 PM - 3:00 PM)

Conclude your visit by exploring the monastery"s extensive library, which houses ancient Buddhist manuscripts and texts. It"s a quiet place for the family to absorb the tranquil atmosphere and reflect on the day"s experiences.

This educational and peaceful outing not only introduces your family to Buddhist culture and architecture but also offers a serene retreat from the bustling city life of Ulaanbaatar.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Zaisan Memorial

Why Visit?

Embark on an enriching family day trip to the Zaisan Memorial in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia, a site of historical significance and breathtaking vistas.

Morning: Arrival at Zaisan Memorial

Start your family outing with a drive to the southern area of Ulaanbaatar, where Zaisan Memorial stands on a hill. You can take a taxi or drive; parking is available near the base of the hill. Begin your visit by climbing the circular stairway leading to the memorial. As you ascend, engage the kids by counting the steps — all 300 of them!

At the Memorial

At the top, take in the panoramic views of the entire city and the Tuul River. The memorial itself, a mural depicting scenes of friendship between the people of Mongolia and the Soviet Union, offers a visual history lesson. It honors Soviet soldiers killed in World War II and is an excellent opportunity to teach children about the sacrifices made during the war. The mural is rich in colors and symbolism, perfect for sparking curiosity and questions from young minds.

Lunchtime

Pack a picnic to enjoy on the surrounding hillside, where you can relax and the kids can play. There’s plenty of space for a comfortable family meal with a view.

Afternoon: Buddha Park Visit

A short walk from the memorial is the Buddha Park, home to a massive statue of Buddha. This is not just an impressive sight; it"s also a serene spot for family reflection and photos.

Wrap-up

As the day winds down, stroll back to your car, discussing with the kids what they learned and what impressed them the most about the day’s experiences.

This family-friendly itinerary to Zaisan Memorial not only promises fun and education but also a deep appreciation of Mongolia’s rich history and scenic landscapes.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

National Museum of Mongolia

Why Visit?

Family-Friendly Day at the National Museum of Mongolia

Morning Arrival

Start your day early and head to the National Museum of Mongolia located in Ulaanbaatar. Easily accessible by public transport, you can take bus lines 7, 12, or 17 directly to the museum. If you prefer a taxi, it’s a quick and convenient option.

Welcome and Orientation (9:00 AM)

Upon arrival, grab a guide map from the entrance. These maps are child-friendly with engaging illustrations and trivia that make navigation both fun and educational. Begin at the ground floor where you"ll find the ticket booth and a small café for a quick snack.

Prehistory Hall (9:30 AM)

Your first stop inside the museum is the Prehistory Hall where the kids can marvel at dinosaur fossils and learn about Mongolia’s prehistoric landscapes. Don’t miss the interactive displays where children can touch replicas of dinosaur bones.

Hall of Mongol Empire (10:30 AM)

Next, explore the era of the Mongol Empire. This hall showcases the history of Genghis Khan and his descendants. Engage the kids with a scavenger hunt provided by the museum, looking for specific artifacts like ancient swords or traditional costumes.

Lunch Break (11:30 AM)

Head to the museum’s café for some traditional Mongolian cuisine. Try buuz (steamed dumplings) or khuushuur (fried dumplings) which are both kid-friendly and delicious.

Ethnography Hall (12:30 PM)

Post-lunch, visit the Ethnography Hall. This section displays modern-day cultural artifacts, offering a glimpse into the lives of different Mongolian ethnic groups. The vibrant traditional outfits are a visual treat, and the yurt setup is a hit among kids, allowing them to experience a Mongolian nomadic home.

Souvenir Shopping and Departure (1:30 PM)

Conclude your museum visit by stopping at the gift shop. It"s a great place to buy educational books or traditional crafts as souvenirs of your visit.

Leaving the Museum (2:00 PM)

Wrap up your tour and head back to your accommodation by bus or taxi, filled with memories and new knowledge about Mongolia"s rich history and culture.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Gorkhi-Terelj National Park

Why Visit?

Family-Friendly Itinerary for Gorkhi-Terelj National Park

Day 1: Arrival and Exploring the Park

- Morning: Start your adventure by driving from Ulaanbaatar to Gorkhi-Terelj National Park, which is about 1.5 hours away. You can rent a car or take a local bus that departs regularly from the city.

- Afternoon: Upon arrival, have lunch at a ger camp where you can also arrange to stay overnight. Post lunch, take a leisurely hike to explore the iconic Turtle Rock, an unusual rock formation that resembles a turtle. This natural playground offers great photo opportunities and a chance for kids to scramble and explore.

- Evening: Enjoy a traditional Mongolian dinner at the ger camp, followed by a stargazing session. The park’s remote location offers a clear view of the night sky.

Day 2: Adventure and Culture

- Morning: After breakfast, head to the Aryabal Meditation Temple. A short trek through scenic landscapes leads to this beautifully serene temple, where you can learn about Mongolian Buddhism. The path to the temple, lined with 108 stupas, offers a reflective journey.

- Afternoon: Post lunch, arrange for a horseback riding session through the park’s vast landscapes—an authentic Mongolian experience suitable for all ages.

- Evening: Return to the ger camp for some rest and enjoy a cultural show featuring traditional Mongolian music and dance, giving you a taste of the local heritage.

Day 3: Departure

- Morning: Wake up early for a guided wildlife spotting hike. Keep your eyes peeled for local fauna like red deer, marmots, and various bird species. This is a gentle walk suitable for families.

- Noon: Pack up and head back to Ulaanbaatar with memories of a unique blend of adventure and culture from Gorkhi-Terelj National Park.

Interesting Facts

- Gorkhi-Terelj National Park is part of the huge Khan Khentii Strictly Protected Area and is known for its stunning alpine scenery.

- Traditional ger camps offer a unique way to experience Mongolian nomadic culture.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.