Mercury Market
Ulaanbaatar's sprawling Narantool Market, a vibrant hub for bargain hunting, local crafts, and everyday goods. Be prepared for crowds and haggle for t...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better deals
Mercury Market
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better deals
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Ulaanbaatar's sprawling Narantool Market, a vibrant hub for bargain hunting, local crafts, and everyday goods. Be prepared for crowds and haggle for the best deals!
"Narantool Market is a must-visit for bargain hunters, offering a vast array of goods at unbeatable prices."
🎯 Be Pickpocket Aware
Narantool Market is known for pickpockets. Keep valuables secure and be mindful of your surroundings.
💰 Haggle for Prices
Bargaining is part of the shopping experience. Start lower than you're willing to pay and negotiate respectfully.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Bargain Hunting
Narantool Market
Discover a vast array of goods, from clothing and electronics to local crafts. Haggling is expected, so embrace the experience!
Local Flavors
Various food stalls
Sample traditional Mongolian cuisine, often meat-heavy, and explore unique local dishes. Don't miss the chance to try something new!
Ger District Exploration
Ger districts
Witness the unique urban nomadic lifestyle in the 'ger districts,' where traditional yurts coexist with modern city life.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating the Narantool Market
Cold Weather Preparedness
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Be Pickpocket Aware
Narantool Market is known for pickpockets. Keep valuables secure and be mindful of your surroundings.
💰 Haggle for Prices
Bargaining is part of the shopping experience. Start lower than you're willing to pay and negotiate respectfully.
🧥 Dress in Layers
Ulaanbaatar's weather is extreme. Pack warm clothing, including a good coat, hat, and gloves.
🗣️ Learn Basic Phrases
Knowing a few Mongolian phrases can enhance interactions and help with bargaining.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Be Pickpocket Aware
Narantool Market is known for pickpockets. Keep valuables secure and be mindful of your surroundings.
💰 Haggle for Prices
Bargaining is part of the shopping experience. Start lower than you're willing to pay and negotiate respectfully.
🧥 Dress in Layers
Ulaanbaatar's weather is extreme. Pack warm clothing, including a good coat, hat, and gloves.
🗣️ Learn Basic Phrases
Knowing a few Mongolian phrases can enhance interactions and help with bargaining.
📱 Stay Connected
Consider getting a local SIM card for easier navigation and communication.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Narantool Market (Mercury Market) is a vast and bustling marketplace offering a wide array of goods at competitive prices, making it a prime spot for bargain hunters. Visitors appreciate the sheer variety and the opportunity to haggle for unique finds. However, many caution about pickpocketing and advise staying vigilant.
"The soil of the year bvtegdhvvnee taniltsuulj tailbrLaj chadgv so gzr
Hudldagch in utsaar toglool uur you hiidgv"
gan tun
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Narantool Market is accessible by local buses and taxis from the city center. The drive can take around 30-60 minutes depending on traffic. Taxis are readily available, but agree on a price beforehand or ensure the meter is used.
Yes, the airport is over an hour's drive from Ulaanbaatar's city center, so factor this into your travel plans.
Local buses are very affordable, while taxis offer more convenience. Ride-sharing apps are also becoming more popular.
Several bus routes serve the market area. It's advisable to ask your hotel or locals for the most convenient route from your location.
Yes, taxis are usually available around the market, but be prepared to negotiate fares.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Generally, there is no entrance fee to wander through Narantool Market. You only pay for the items you purchase.
The market typically opens early in the morning and closes in the late afternoon or early evening. It's best to visit during daylight hours.
Yes, Narantool Market is usually open seven days a week, though it can be busiest on weekends.
While some vendors might accept foreign currency, it's best to have Mongolian Tugrik (MNT) for purchases. Currency exchange booths are available in the city.
Weekends can be very crowded, increasing the risk of pickpocketing. Weekday mornings are often recommended for a more relaxed experience.
🎫 🛍️ Shopping & Goods
You can find a wide variety of goods, including clothing, electronics, household items, souvenirs, and local crafts.
Yes, bargaining is a common practice. Don't be afraid to negotiate prices, but do so respectfully.
Groceries can be surprisingly cheap compared to Western countries. Look for local handicrafts and traditional clothing for unique souvenirs.
Yes, electronics and mobile accessories are often available.
Exercise caution when buying street food. Look for vendors with high turnover and ensure food is cooked thoroughly.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The market offers a range of local food stalls. Traditional Mongolian cuisine, often meat-heavy, is prevalent.
While the market focuses on local fare, Ulaanbaatar has international chains like KFC, which can offer a different fast-food experience.
Dishes often feature lamb and beef. Try 'buuz' (steamed dumplings) or 'khuushuur' (fried meat pastries).
It's advisable to choose stalls that appear clean and busy. If you have a sensitive stomach, stick to well-cooked options.
Vegetarian options can be limited, as Mongolian cuisine is traditionally meat-focused. It's best to inquire specifically.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally allowed, but it's always polite to ask permission before taking close-up photos of vendors or their goods.
Early morning or late afternoon can offer softer light. Capturing the bustling activity during peak hours can also yield dynamic shots.
The sheer scale of the market, the diverse array of goods, and the interactions between vendors and shoppers offer many photographic possibilities.
While photographing, remain aware of your surroundings, especially regarding your camera and other valuables, due to pickpocketing risks.
A versatile lens like a 24-70mm is useful. A smaller, less conspicuous camera might also be preferable in crowded areas.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
✈️ Day-Trippers from Ulaanbaatar
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Understanding the Narantool Market Experience
Navigating the market can be an adventure in itself. It's a place where haggling is not just accepted but expected. Don't be afraid to negotiate prices, but always do so with a smile and respect. This interaction is part of the cultural experience. You'll encounter a wide range of vendors, many of whom are eager to make a sale. The market is a vibrant hub of activity, especially during peak hours, offering a sensory overload of sights, sounds, and smells.
Beyond the shopping, Narantool Market provides an opportunity to observe local life. You'll see people from all walks of life, from families doing their weekly shopping to entrepreneurs selling their wares. While the market is primarily known for its goods, you can also find food stalls offering traditional Mongolian fare. Be adventurous and try some local delicacies, but always prioritize hygiene.
Ulaanbaatar's Climate and What to Pack
Don't forget warm accessories. A thick hat that covers your ears, insulated gloves or mittens, and a scarf or balaclava are crucial for protecting exposed skin from the biting cold. Footwear should be waterproof and insulated to keep your feet warm and dry. Consider thermal socks as well. Even during summer, evenings can be cool, so packing a light jacket or sweater is advisable.
When visiting Narantool Market, remember that while you'll be moving around, the cold can still seep in. Wearing comfortable, warm clothing will allow you to spend more time exploring the market's offerings without feeling rushed by the elements.
Navigating Ulaanbaatar's Urban Landscape
The distance from the airport to the city center is considerable, taking over an hour to travel. This is something to factor into arrival and departure plans. Within the city, traffic can be heavy, so allow ample time for journeys, especially during peak hours. While many visitors focus on the Narantool Market, exploring other parts of Ulaanbaatar can offer insights into Mongolian culture, from museums and monasteries to modern shopping centers and restaurants.




Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit