Discover how to travel from Russia to Mongolia by crossing the breathtaking landscapes and rich cultures of both countries. In this article, we will present to you an exciting itinerary from Ulan-Ude in Russia to Ulaanbaatar in Mongolia via Kyakhta, along with practical tips to make your journey even more enjoyable.
Ulan-Ude: the starting point of this beautiful adventure
Located in Russia, near the Mongolian border, Ulan-Ude is a fascinating city that offers a unique blend of Russian and Mongolian culture.
This is where our journey to Ulaanbaatar begins. You can reach Ulan-Ude by various means, including train, bus, or plane.
The train: a comfortable way to arrive in Ulan-Ude
If you're coming from Moscow, Saint Petersburg, or other Russian cities, taking the train is a practical and comfortable option to get to Ulan-Ude.
The famous Trans-Siberian railway also passes through the city, which means you can incorporate Ulan-Ude into a longer trip across Russia.
The bus: an economical alternative to the train
Buses are also available to reach Ulan-Ude from other Russian cities or even from Mongolia.
Although less comfortable than the train, the bus can be a less expensive alternative if you are traveling on a tight budget.
The plane: for those who prefer speed
If you are in a hurry, taking a plane to Ulan-Ude is another option.
Several airlines offer regular flights from Moscow and other Russian cities.
From Ulan-Ude to Kyakhta: crossing the Russian-Mongolian border
Once you have reached Ulan-Ude, it’s time to head towards the Mongolian border and discover the breathtaking landscapes that separate these two fascinating countries.
The journey between Ulan-Ude and Kyakhta can be made by bus or train, depending on your preferences.
The bus: for a more direct and faster journey
Taking the bus from Ulan-Ude to Kyakhta is generally faster than the train, with daily departures available.
Bus tickets can be purchased at the Ulan-Ude bus station or from local travel agencies.
The train: to fully enjoy the scenery
The train offers a more relaxing and picturesque travel experience than the bus, although it may be slower.
There are regular trains between Ulan-Ude and Kyakhta, but it is advisable to book your ticket in advance as they tend to be in high demand.
Read more: The Gobi Desert: the desert with 100 faces
Kyakhta: discovering a place off the beaten path
Kyakhta is a small town located at the Russian-Mongolian border, which often serves as a transit point for travelers between the two countries.
Although there are not many tourist attractions per se, Kyakhta offers an interesting glimpse into daily life in this remote region.
Although accommodation options are limited in Kyakhta, you can find a few hotels and guesthouses for the night. For meals, there are a few local restaurants that serve traditional Mongolian and Russian dishes. Don’t hesitate to try the local specialties to enrich your culinary experience!
On the way to Ulaanbaatar: immersion in Mongolian culture
After crossing the border and exploring Kyakhta, it’s time to continue our journey to Ulaanbaatar, the capital of Mongolia. The trip can be made by bus or train, with regular departures available from Kyakhta.
The bus: for an economical and flexible journey
Buses between Kyakhta and Ulaanbaatar are generally cheaper than trains and offer more flexibility in terms of schedules.
Tickets can be purchased at the Kyakhta bus station or from local travel agencies.
The train: for a unique and comfortable travel experience
For those travelers who prefer the comfort of the train, there are also regular trains between Kyakhta and Ulaanbaatar.
Although more expensive than the bus, the train offers an unforgettable travel experience through Mongolia’s spectacular landscapes.
Read more: The Great Wall of China: an unforgettable hike from Jinshanling to Simatai
Ulaanbaatar: a fascinating blend of tradition and modernity
Once you arrive in Ulaanbaatar, you will be amazed by the striking contrast between ancient Mongolian traditions and the growing modernity of this booming city.
Don’t miss iconic sites such as the Gandantegchinlen Monastery, Sukhbaatar Square, and the National Museum of Mongolia to enrich your understanding of Mongolian history and culture.
Thus, the journey from Ulan-Ude to Ulaanbaatar via Kyakhta offers a unique and unforgettable experience, with breathtaking landscapes and an immersion in Russian and Mongolian cultures. Feel free to follow this exciting itinerary to create lasting memories!
