Known as the coldest capital city in the world, Ulaanbaatar experiences extreme winters, with temperatures often falling below –30°C to –40°C. Winter in Ulaanbaatar is not for everyone, but for travelers seeking authenticity, dramatic scenery, and cultural depth, it is truly rewarding. With good preparation, a winter visit becomes a memorable and unique adventure.
1. Stroll through the city
Winter walks in Ulaanbaatar feel refreshing and calm. The city becomes quieter, the air is crisp, and the streets take on a charming winter atmosphere. But you need to be careful as well, sidewalks can be extremely "polished" (icy). Look for the "penguin walk" technique—keep your center of gravity forward.
Sükhbaatar Square: The heart of the city. In winter, it often features impressive ice sculptures and festive lights. It’s the best place to admire the Parliament House and the massive Chinggis Khaan statue.
Peace Avenue: The main artery. Walking from the State Department Store toward the square allows you to pop into various shops and cafes to defrost.
National Garden Park: Established in 2009, it is the city’s largest public urban green space in the southern part of Ulaanbaatar. A peaceful park for relaxed walks.
2. Scenic Views
Winter offers crystal-clear air, making it the best season for panoramic views.
Zaisan Memorial: Located on a hill south of the city. You’ll have to climb about 600 steps, but the reward is a 360-degree view of the city and the Tuul River. In winter, the contrast between the high-rises and the smoke from the ger districts creates a stark, atmospheric vista.
Chinggis Khaan Statue Complex (Tsonjin Boldog): About an hour's drive from the city. You can take an elevator (or stairs) to the horse’s head for a panoramic view of the frozen Tuul valley.
3. Cultural & Indoor Activities
Mongolians are very active on Facebook (look for groups like "Expats & Foreigners in Mongolia" or search for events at the "State Opera and Ballet Theatre"). Also you could search it on reddit too (r/Mongolia).
Tsagaan Sar (take places in every February): If your visit overlaps with these dates, the city will be quiet as families gather. However, leading up to it, the city is buzzing with "Tsagaan Sar expos" where you can see traditional crafts.
Gandan Monastery: The largest active monastery. Hearing the morning chants while the incense smoke hits the cold air is a spiritual highlight.
Museums: The Chinggis Khaan National Museum is world-class and perfectly climate-controlled. The Winter Palace of the Bogd Khaan is also a must-see to see how the last king lived.
4. Cafes & Restaurants
Winter is café season in Ulaanbaatar. The city has a lively coffee culture and excellent international cuisine. The goal here is calories and warmth.
The Classics: Visit Modern Nomads for a high-quality introduction to buuz (steamed dumplings) and banshtai tsai (dumpling tea).
Cozy Cafes: ROC Caffeine Bar or Potala Coffee shop are local favorites for hiding from the wind. Popular café areas: Seoul Street, Central UB, Zaisan district.
Nightlife: For a unique vibe, try the Fat Cat Jazz Club (tucked away near the Choijin Lama Temple) or Bitsy & Co. for cocktails.
5. Shopping & Souvenirs
Winter is ideal for souvenir shopping, especially warm, handmade items.
Cashmere: You cannot leave without it. Gobi Cashmere is the giant, but Goyo and smaller brands like Naadam offer stylish alternatives. February usually sees big "Winter Clearance" sales.
State Department Store (Ikh Delguur): The 6th floor is the "Souvenir Heaven." Look for leather goods, felt slippers (perfect for cold floors back home), and morin khuur (horse-head fiddle) miniatures.
Narantuul Market (The Black Market): Only for the brave. It’s an open-air market. Go here for authentic (and cheap) winter gear, traditional deels, and horse tack. Watch your pockets!
6. Practical Winter Travel Tips from a Local
Layering is a Science: Use the 3-Layer System:
Base: Merino wool (no cotton!).
Mid: Fleece or down vest.
Outer: A windproof, heavy-duty parka.
Air Quality: UB has significant smog in winter due to coal heating in the ger districts. Check the AirVisual app. On "Purple" or "Maroon" days, wear an N95 mask outdoors.
Device Care: Your phone battery will die in minutes at -30°C. Keep it in an inside pocket close to your body heat, or carry a power bank.
Skin Care: The air is incredibly dry. Bring heavy-duty lip balm and moisturizer, or your skin will crack within 48 hours.
