Bayan-Ulgii Province

Mongolia, Asia

Bayan-Ulgii Province, tucked away in Western Mongolia, is renowned for its stunning mountain landscapes and rich cultural heritage. The region is primarily inhabited by the Kazakh ethnic group, making it a unique cultural melting pot. Visitors can explore the breathtaking Altai Mountains, engage in eagle hunting festivals, and immerse themselves in local nomadic lifestyle. Outdoor enthusiasts will find world-class hiking routes and opportunities for wildlife spotting, including the elusive snow leopard.

Quick facts

Target stay

5-7 days

Type

Region

Vibe

Active

Airport

Diwopu

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

8 Best Things to Do in Bayan-Ulgii Province

1

Est. 5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore the Altai Mountains

Hike breathtaking landscapes and witness stunning vistas.

No booking required
2

Est. 3 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Visit the Eagle Hunters

Experience the unique culture of eagle hunting traditions.

Booking required
3

Est. 6 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Tour the local nomadic families

Stay with nomads and learn about their lifestyle.

Booking required
4

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Ulgii Market

Experience local culture and buy handmade crafts.

No booking required
5

Est. 4 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Attend the Golden Eagle Festival

Witness stunning displays of eagle hunting skills.

Booking required
6

Est. 5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore Tsambagarav Mountain

Hike to the summit for breathtaking views.

No booking required
7

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Discover the local cuisine

Taste traditional Mongolian dishes in local eateries.

No booking required
8

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Bayan-Ulgii Museum

Learn about the region's history and culture.

No booking required

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

Expected (~10%)

Tapwater

Not safe to drink

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

High

LGBTQ+ safety score

-3 (#70 globally)

Cost

Cheap

Currency

Tugrik

Majority religion

Buddhist

Language

Mongolian

(<20% speak English)

Best dishes to try

Buuz

Steamed dumplings filled with meat. (National dish)

Khuushuur

Fried meat-filled pastries, crispy outside.

Tsuivan

Stir-fried noodles with meat and vegetables.

Boodog

Whole goat cooked in its own skin.

Khorkhog

Meat cooked with hot stones in a pot.

Phrases to learn

English

Mongolian

Hello

Sain baina uu

(Sah-een bahy-nah oo)

Yes/No

Tiim / Ugui

(Teem / Oo-gwee)

Thank you

Bayarlaa

(Bah-yar-la)

Excuse me

Uuchlaarai

(Ooch-lah-rai)

How much?

Khed ve?

(Khed veh)