Where to Stay in Mongolia: Ulaanbaatar Hotels, Ger Camps & Unique Stays

Mongolia offers a diverse range of accommodations, each promising a distinct experience that reflects the country's unique blend of modern development and ancient nomadic traditions. From bustling city hotels to tranquil ger camps and authentic homestays, choosing where to rest your head is an integral part of your Mongolian adventure.

Ulaanbaatar: Your Urban Base

As the nation's capital and largest city, Ulaanbaatar serves as the primary gateway for most travelers. The city boasts the widest selection of accommodation, catering to all preferences and budgets. Staying in Ulaanbaatar provides a comfortable base for exploring urban attractions before venturing into the vast countryside.

Luxury Hotels

Ulaanbaatar features a growing number of international luxury hotels offering world-class amenities. These establishments provide a sanctuary of comfort with spacious rooms, fine dining restaurants, fitness centers, and often stunning city views. They are ideal for travelers seeking familiar comforts and high service standards after long flights or expeditions into the wilderness.

Mid-Range & Boutique Hotels

For those seeking a balance between comfort and value, Ulaanbaatar offers numerous mid-range and boutique hotels. Many of these blend modern amenities with touches of Mongolian design and hospitality. They often include breakfast and are conveniently located near key attractions like Sukhbaatar Square, museums, and shopping districts.

Budget-Friendly Options

Travelers on a tighter budget will find a plethora of hostels and guesthouses throughout Ulaanbaatar. These options provide clean, basic accommodation, often with shared facilities, and are excellent places to meet fellow travelers and gather local insights. Many hostels are located within walking distance of popular sites such as the Gandantegchinlen Monastery.

Travel Tip:When staying in Ulaanbaatar, consider accommodation near the city center for easy access to public transportation, restaurants, and cultural sites.

Embracing Tradition: Ger Camps (Tourist Ger Camps)

No trip to Mongolia is complete without experiencing a ger camp. These traditional nomadic dwellings, known as 'gers' (or 'yurts' in Russian), offer a truly authentic and immersive cultural experience. Tourist ger camps are permanent or semi-permanent setups designed for visitors, providing a comfortable yet traditional stay outside the city.

What to Expect

• Traditional Structure:You'll sleep in a circular felt tent, often decorated with vibrant Mongolian patterns.
• Heating:Most gers have a central wood-burning stove that keeps them surprisingly warm, especially important during cooler months.
• Sleeping Arrangements:Beds are typically single or double, arranged around the perimeter of the ger.
• Facilities:While some more luxurious camps offer en-suite bathrooms, most have shared toilet and shower blocks, sometimes with limited hot water.
• Dining:Camps usually have a central dining ger or building serving local and international cuisine.

Popular Locations for Ger Camps

Ger camps are widely available throughout Mongolia's stunning landscapes, often located near natural wonders and cultural sites:

• Near Ulaanbaatar:Easy access to sites like Gorkhi Terelj National Park,Hustain Nuruu Biosphere Reserve, and the Chinggis Khaan Statue Complex.
• Southern Mongolia:Essential for exploring the vast expanses of the Gobi Desert.
• Northern Mongolia:Found around the pristine waters of Khuvsgul Lake.
• Central Mongolia:Often near historical sites like Erdene Zuu Monastery.

Staying in a ger camp offers opportunities for horse riding, camel trekking, stargazing, and interacting with local nomadic families, providing an unforgettable connection to Mongolia's heritage.

Unique & Off-the-Beaten-Path Stays

Beyond hotels and tourist ger camps, Mongolia offers several unique accommodation options for those seeking deeper immersion or specialized experiences.

Authentic Homestays with Nomads

For the truly adventurous, staying with a nomadic family in their own ger offers an unparalleled cultural immersion. Facilities are basic – expect no running water or electricity, and shared sleeping space in the family's ger. However, the experience of sharing meals, observing daily life, and learning about nomadic traditions firsthand is incredibly rewarding. These homestays are particularly common in remote regions such as near Altai Tavan Bogd National Park or in Bayan-Ölgii, where you might even witness eagle hunting.

Eco-Lodges & Wilderness Resorts

Mongolia also features a growing number of eco-lodges and wilderness resorts, often situated in stunning natural settings. These accommodations focus on sustainability and offer a higher level of comfort and service than traditional ger camps, while still providing an intimate connection with nature. Examples include resorts built around natural attractions like Tsenkher Hot Spring Resort, where guests can enjoy therapeutic hot spring baths.

Boutique Ger Camps & Glamping

Combining the charm of a traditional ger with modern luxuries, boutique ger camps and glamping sites offer an upscale experience. These often feature beautifully decorated gers, private bathrooms, high-quality bedding, and gourmet dining. They cater to travelers who desire an authentic feel without sacrificing comfort and convenience.

Choosing Your Mongolian Accommodation

When planning your trip, consider the following factors to select the best accommodation for your Mongolian adventure:

1. Travel Style:Are you seeking adventure and cultural immersion, or comfort and relaxation?
2. Itinerary:Your route will dictate the availability of different accommodation types. City stays are for Ulaanbaatar, while ger camps are for the countryside.
3. Season:Heating is crucial for stays outside Ulaanbaatar during cooler months (September-May). Ensure your ger camp provides adequate warmth.
4. Group Size:Some ger camps and homestays are better suited for smaller groups or individual travelers.
5. Amenities:Prioritize what's important to you – private bathrooms, Wi-Fi, specific activities.

Booking accommodation, especially ger camps and unique stays, often happens through tour operators. This ensures seamless logistics, transfers, and a reliable experience. While prices vary widely, Mongolia offers options to suit every budget, promising a memorable stay whether you're in a luxurious city hotel or a cozy ger under a blanket of stars.

Mongolia's accommodation landscape is as varied and captivating as its scenery. From the urban comforts of Ulaanbaatar to the rustic charm of a nomadic ger, each choice offers a unique window into the heart of this extraordinary country, ensuring your stay is as enriching as your journey.