Discovering Ulaanbaatar Through Its Museums
When people think of Mongolia, their minds often wander to vast steppes, nomadic traditions, and the legacy of Chinggis Khan. However, Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia’s capital city, offers a wealth of cultural and historical exhibits through its museums. Each museum tells a unique story, revealing layers of Mongolia’s past, present, and aspirations for the future. Here, we’ve rounded up our favorite museums in Ulaanbaatar, each chosen for its distinct character and the insights it provides into this fascinating country.
Chinggis Khan National Museum: A Monument to Legacy
Modernity and tradition collide at the Chinggis Khan National Museum, housed in a striking contemporary building that mirrors the ambitions of modern Mongolia. Inside, you’ll find over 11,000 artifacts, with an astounding 92% being original pieces, chronicling 2000 years of Mongolian history.
The exhibits bring the story of Chinggis Khan and the Mongol Empire to life, featuring intricately crafted armour, tools of governance, and relics of conquest. For history enthusiasts, this museum offers a chance to walk in the footsteps of one of history’s most influential leaders.
While display labels are primarily in Mongolian, visitors can access translations and additional information in English and Russian by scanning QR codes with a smartphone. For those who prefer a more guided experience or do not wish to rely on digital tools, hiring an English-speaking guide at the museum is a recommended option.
- Location on Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/SARDYfNgApAaQk5D7
National Museum of Mongolia: An Overview of Heritage
The National Museum of Mongolia has well-curated exhibits spanning prehistoric artifacts to modern-day artifacts and the museum offers a comprehensive introduction to Mongolian history and culture. One of the highlights is the collection of traditional Mongolian deels (robes). These garments, rich in colour and design, tell the story of regional and ethnic diversity in Mongolia.
- Location on Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/JiQSv5XGBUjpE7Kt6
Choijin Lama Temple Museum: Peace Amidst the City
Tucked away in the heart of Ulaanbaatar, the Choijin Lama Temple Museum provides a tranquil escape from the city’s urban chaos. This peaceful temple complex was once home to the State Oracle and now houses a collection of Buddhist artifacts.
The Tsam masks are a standout feature—ornate, vibrant, and steeped in spiritual significance. These masks, once used in religious dances to ward off evil spirits, provide a glimpse into Mongolia’s Buddhist traditions. The calm atmosphere of the temple grounds makes it a wonderful place to pause and reflect, reminding visitors of Mongolia’s deep spiritual roots.
- Location On Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/K66YEG8FPeLArn3s9
Bogd Khan Palace Museum: A Glimpse into Old Ulaanbaatar
The Bogd Khan Palace Museum, formerly the winter residence of Mongolia’s last king, is a window into Ulaanbaatar’s past. The architecture, with its intricate designs and traditional motifs, harks back to a time before Soviet influence reshaped the city.
Inside, the exhibits include royal possessions, religious artifacts, and a collection of ancient maps that chart Mongolia’s changing borders and ambitions. The palace itself is a reminder of what Ulaanbaatar once looked like, offering visitors a look at the city’s history.
- Location On Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/p9G7zQ4bEBah4gt29
Mongolian National Art Gallery: Creativity at the Core
Art is an integral part of Mongolia’s cultural identity, and the Mongolian National Art Gallery celebrates this beautifully. From traditional themes to contemporary interpretations, the exhibits showcase the evolving creative spirit of Mongolian artists.
What makes this gallery special is its ability to bridge the gap between past and present. Whether it’s modern takes on nomadic life or abstract pieces inspired by Mongolia’s landscapes, the gallery highlights the country’s artistic vibrancy. Beyond its visual appeal, the collection also serves as a vital record of Mongolia’s social, historical, and cultural journey.
- Location On Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/BEZzTfTUyqtc9jDA8
Natural History Museum: Dinosaurs and Soviet Grandeur
Housed in the grand old Lenin Museum building, the Natural History Museum offers a double treat. Inside, you’ll find Mongolia’s famous dinosaur fossils, including those of the Velociraptor and Protoceratops. These fossils remind visitors that the Gobi Desert was once a thriving ecosystem millions of years ago.
The building itself, with its Soviet-era architecture, adds another layer of fascination. Its imposing design contrasts sharply with the delicate fossils inside, creating a unique juxtaposition of history and design.
- Location On Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/r6y7oaWW57xYbUaS7
Fine Arts Zanabazar Museum: Masterpieces of Spiritual Art
Named after Mongolia’s first spiritual and political leader, Zanabazar, the Fine Arts Zanabazar Museum is a treasure trove of Buddhist art. The exhibits provide insights into Buddhist practices and philosophy and include beautifully crafted sculptures by Zanabazar who was also considered one of the greatest Renaissance artists in Asia. A highlight has to be the intricate thangkas (religious scroll paintings) that are used as aids for meditation and that depict gods and spiritual beings in exquisite detail.
- Location On Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/yb78vK39HkcJ9P1o9
The symbol on the Mongolian flag is the **Soyombo**, a design created by Zanabazar, the First Living Buddha of Mongolia. It originates from the first character of the Mongolian Soyombo script and serves as a powerful national emblem. Each element within the Soyombo carries profound symbolic meaning, reflecting Mongolia’s heritage and values.
International Intellectual Museum: A World of Puzzles
For something completely different, the International Intellectual Museum is a delight for curious minds. This museum boasts a collection of over 5,000 puzzles and games, ranging from simple two-piece challenges to mind-bending puzzles requiring thousands of moves. Don’t expect to spend hours attempting these puzzles, though—guided tours are the norm, and hands-on time with the games is often limited. Still, the sheer variety and ingenuity of the exhibits make this museum a fun and thought-provoking stop.
- Location On Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/CJz2VYG1yMxdH25V7
Take the time to explore Ulaanbaatar’s museums, and you’ll uncover a deeper appreciation for the cultural tapestry that defines this extraordinary country. At EL, we provide every guest with a complimentary, relaxed, and informal ‘Intro to Ulaanbaatar’ experience, offering a local introduction to the city. And then, for those with a keen interest in museums or art galleries, we suggest setting aside an additional one or two days to fully immerse yourself in Ulaanbaatar’s artistic and historical offerings. To make the most of your time, explore the rest of our blog series on Ulaanbaatar, where you’ll find curated suggestions for exploring the city.
- https://www.eternal-landscapes.co.uk/exploring-ulaanbaatar-the-squares-panoramic-views-and-hidden-gardens/
- https://www.eternal-landscapes.co.uk/exploring-ulaanbaatar-the-beatles-statue/
- https://www.eternal-landscapes.co.uk/gandan-monastery-mongolia/
Jess @ Eternal Landscapes
