Things to Do in Chinggis Khaan Square

Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia's sprawling capital, sits in a valley surrounded by four sacred mountains, where Soviet-era apartment blocks stand alongside traditional gers and gleaming new developments. The city might feel like an unlikely urban center - and in many ways it is - but it serves as the perfect introduction to Mongolia's fascinating blend of nomadic traditions and rapid modernization. Chinggis Khaan Square anchors the heart of the city, a vast ceremonial plaza that replaced the old Sükhbaatar Square and now bears the name of Mongolia's most famous historical figure. The square actually captures the essence of modern Mongolia quite well: respectful of tradition but looking firmly toward the future, with the imposing Government Palace dominating one side and the buzz of city life flowing around its edges.

Ulaanbaatar's dining scene ranges from traditional Mongolian barbecue and mutton dishes to surprisingly good international cuisine reflecting the city's growing cosmopolitan character. You'll find plenty of Korean and Chinese restaurants alongside local spots serving buuz (steamed dumplings) and khorkhog (traditional meat stew). The area around Chinggis Khaan Square has several upscale restaurants, while Seoul Street offers good mid-range international options, and local canteens throughout the city serve hearty, inexpensive Mongolian staples.

Summer months from June to August offer the warmest weather and the famous Naadam festival in July, but this is also peak tourist season with higher prices and crowds. Spring (May) and early fall (September) provide pleasant weather with fewer visitors, though nights can still be quite cold. Winter is brutally cold with temperatures dropping well below freezing, but it's actually quite beautiful if you can handle the conditions, and you'll have the city largely to yourself.