National Museum of Mongolia

In the heart of downtown Ulaanbaatar, the National Museum of Mongolia is an informative, modern museum. It covers Mongolian history from the Stone Age to the 1990 democratic revolution (although, sadly, not the dinosaurs). Highlights include ancient treasure, elaborate costumes, armor from the Genghis Khan era, and Buddhist artworks.

The Basics
Gain entry to the National Museum of Mongolia for a moderate charge, with discounts for children. Exhibits are generally clearly labeled in both Mongolian and English, while the central location is easy to reach, so many travelers visit independently. The National Museum of Mongolia is a common stop on Ulaanbaatar city tours, alongside attractions such as the Bogd Khaan Palace Museum, the Choijin Lama Temple Museum, Gandantegchinlen Monastery, and, of course, nearby Sükhbaatar Square.

Things to Know Before You Go

• The National Museum of Mongolia is a must for history buffs, culture vultures, and lovers of costumes.
• Allow 1–2 hours to visit the museum, which spreads over three floors.
• The National Museum of Mongolia is wheelchair-accessible.

How to Get There
The National Museum of Mongolia occupies a modern building just off Sükhbaatar Square in downtown Ulaanbaatar. It’s an easy walk from the Choijin Lama Temple Museum and the Mongolian National Modern Art Gallery, as well as many downtown hotels. If you have a bus card, you can catch trolley bus 4 from the train station.

When to Get There
The National Museum of Mongolia is open seven days a week, from morning until early evening, in summer; in winter, it operates shorter hours and closes on Sundays and Mondays. While rarely crowded, the museum is typically at its busiest on Saturdays, so aim to visit midweek if you can.

A Short History of Mongolia
Created soon after Mongolia’s 1990 democratic revolution, the National Museum of Mongolia is the nation’s No. 1 history museum. It tells the story of fierce steppe warriors, from the Huns, who ravaged the Roman Empire, to Genghis Khan and his cavalry, who built the world’s largest contiguous empire. It also covers more recent troubles with Mongolia’s powerful neighbors, China and Russia, and the nation’s return to democracy.