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National Museum of Mongolia, Монгол улс ᠮᠤᠩᠭᠤᠯ ᠤᠯᠤᠰ - Things to Do in National Museum of Mongolia

National Museum of Mongolia

National Museum of Mongolia, Монгол улс ᠮᠤᠩᠭᠤᠯ ᠤᠯᠤᠰ - Complete Travel Guide

The National Museum of Mongolia, located in the heart of Ulaanbaatar, serves as the country's premier cultural institution and gateway to understanding Mongolia's rich heritage spanning thousands of years. This complete museum showcases the evolution of Mongolian civilization from prehistoric times through the present day, featuring extensive collections of archaeological artifacts, traditional costumes, religious art, and exhibits dedicated to the legendary Mongol Empire under Genghis Khan and his successors. Housed in a modern building in the city center, the museum offers visitors an immersive journey through Mongolia's nomadic culture, Buddhist traditions, and Soviet period, making it an essential stop for anyone seeking to understand this fascinating nation. The museum's well-curated displays include dinosaur fossils, traditional gers (yurts), ancient weaponry, and intricate textiles that tell the story of Mongolia's unique position between East and West, nomadism and modernity.

Top National Museum of Mongolia

Ancient Mongolia Exhibits

Discover Mongolia's prehistoric past through extensive archaeological collections including Stone Age tools, Bronze Age artifacts, and ancient petroglyphs. The exhibits showcase the evolution of nomadic culture and early settlements across the Mongolian steppes.

Booking Tip: Museum entry costs around 5,000-8,000 MNT (approximately $2-3 USD). Visit early morning or late afternoon to avoid tour groups. Audio guides available in multiple languages for an additional fee.

Mongol Empire Gallery Experience

spend time in the golden age of the Mongol Empire with detailed exhibits on Genghis Khan, his military strategies, and the vast empire that stretched from Eastern Europe to the Pacific Ocean. Features replica armor, weapons, and historical documents.

Booking Tip: Photography permits cost extra (around 10,000 MNT). Best visited during weekdays when less crowded. Allow 2-3 hours for complete exploration of this extensive section.

Traditional Costumes and Textiles Collection

Marvel at the intricate traditional clothing representing different Mongolian ethnic groups, including elaborate dels (traditional robes), ceremonial headdresses, and accessories. The collection showcases the artistry and cultural significance of Mongolian textile traditions.

Booking Tip: Visit during special exhibitions for enhanced displays. Museum shop offers high-quality replicas and books. Consider hiring a local guide for detailed explanations of cultural significance.

Buddhist Art and Religious Artifacts

Explore Mongolia's Buddhist heritage through sacred statues, thangka paintings, ritual objects, and manuscripts that survived the communist purges. The collection illustrates the deep spiritual traditions that continue to influence modern Mongolian culture.

Booking Tip: Special exhibitions rotate seasonally, check museum website before visiting. Respectful photography only in designated areas. Guided tours available with advance booking for groups.

Modern Mongolia and Soviet Era Displays

Understand Mongolia's 20th-century transformation through exhibits covering the socialist period, industrialization, and the transition to democracy. Features propaganda posters, everyday objects, and documentation of significant political changes.

Booking Tip: Combined tickets with other Ulaanbaatar museums offer better value. Visit on weekends for special programs and lectures. Museum café provides refreshments and local snacks.

Getting There

The National Museum of Mongolia is centrally located in Ulaanbaatar on Juulchny Street, easily accessible from anywhere in the city. International visitors typically fly into Chinggis Khaan International Airport, located about 50km southwest of the city, with airport shuttles, taxis, and rental cars available for the journey to downtown. From within Ulaanbaatar, the museum is within walking distance of major hotels and can be reached by taxi (very affordable), public bus, or on foot from Sukhbaatar Square and other central landmarks.

Getting Around

Ulaanbaatar offers various transportation options including taxis (both traditional and ride-sharing apps), public buses, and rental cars, though walking is often the most practical option in the city center where the museum is located. The museum is situated near other major attractions, making it easy to combine with visits to Gandan Monastery, Sukhbaatar Square, and the State Department Store. Public transportation is inexpensive but can be crowded, while taxis offer convenience and reasonable rates for short distances within the city center.

Where to Stay

City Center/Sukhbaatar Square
Peace Avenue District
Khan-Uul District
Bayangol District
Chingeltei District
Songinokhairkhan District

Food & Dining

Ulaanbaatar's dining scene offers everything from traditional Mongolian cuisine to international options, with many restaurants located within walking distance of the National Museum. Try authentic Mongolian dishes like mutton hotpot, buuz (steamed dumplings), and airag (fermented mare's milk) at local establishments, or enjoy Korean, Chinese, and Western cuisine at upscale restaurants. The area around the museum features numerous cafes, traditional restaurants, and modern eateries, with the State Department Store nearby offering a food court with various options for quick meals between museum visits.

Top-Rated Restaurants in Ulaanbaatar

Highly-rated dining options based on Google reviews (4.5+ stars, 100+ reviews)

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DeQuattro by Rosewood

4.5 /5
(990 reviews) 2

Naadam Bar & Restaurant, Shangri-La Ulaanbaatar

4.5 /5
(552 reviews)
bar

Namaste Baga toiruu

4.5 /5
(434 reviews) 2

Namaste Olympic Street

4.6 /5
(424 reviews)

Sakura Bakery Cafe

4.6 /5
(404 reviews) 2

Hutong Restaurant, Shangri-La Ulaanbaatar

4.6 /5
(327 reviews)

Looking for specific cuisines?

Local Cuisine Italian Japanese Fine Dining

When to Visit

The best time to visit the National Museum of Mongolia is during late spring through early fall (May to September) when Ulaanbaatar enjoys milder weather and longer daylight hours, making it more comfortable to explore the city and combine museum visits with outdoor activities. Winter visits (November to March) offer a unique experience with fewer crowds and the possibility of experiencing traditional Mongolian winter culture, though temperatures can be extremely cold. The museum is open year-round with consistent indoor climate control, making it an excellent rainy day activity during the brief summer monsoon season.

Insider Tips

Purchase the photography permit if you want to take pictures inside, as enforcement is strict and the fee supports museum conservation efforts
Visit the museum shop for authentic Mongolian crafts, books, and souvenirs that are often better quality and more reasonably priced than tourist markets
Combine your museum visit with nearby attractions like Gandan Monastery and the Choijin Lama Temple Museum to create a full day of cultural exploration in walking distance

Activities in National Museum of Mongolia