Ulaanbaatar Railway Station
A historic Soviet-era station, the vital hub for the Trans-Siberian Railway and domestic travel in Mongolia.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Fewer crowds, efficient ticketing
Ulaanbaatar Railway Station
Best Time
Fewer crowds, efficient ticketing
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic Soviet-era station, the vital hub for the Trans-Siberian Railway and domestic travel in Mongolia.
"The gateway to the legendary Trans-Siberian Railway, offering a unique glimpse into Mongolian travel."
🎯 Ticket Buying Ease
Buying train tickets is usually quick with efficient queuing on weekdays. Hard seat tickets to Zamiin-Uud are very affordable.
🚌 Bus Ticket Caution
Bus tickets are available, but the dedicated office closes at 5:30 PM. Plan accordingly to avoid missing out.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Trans-Siberian Journey
Platforms
The gateway to the legendary Trans-Siberian Railway, connecting you to Moscow and beyond. An iconic adventure awaits!
Soviet-Era Architecture
Station exterior and interior
Experience the unique charm of this old Russian and communist-style train station. A step back in time.
Local Commuter Hub
Platforms and waiting areas
Witness the daily hustle and bustle of local life as Mongolians travel across the country. Authentic glimpses of daily routines.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating the Station
Getting to and From
Best Times
Insider Tips
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🎯 Ticket Buying Ease
Buying train tickets is usually quick with efficient queuing on weekdays. Hard seat tickets to Zamiin-Uud are very affordable.
🚌 Bus Ticket Caution
Bus tickets are available, but the dedicated office closes at 5:30 PM. Plan accordingly to avoid missing out.
🗣️ Language Barrier
English is not widely spoken. Have translation apps or key phrases ready for train times and staff communication.
🔌 Onboard Amenities
First-class cabins offer free drinks and beds. Toilets on board often have power plugs (European type).
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Ticket Buying Ease
Buying train tickets is usually quick with efficient queuing on weekdays. Hard seat tickets to Zamiin-Uud are very affordable.
🚌 Bus Ticket Caution
Bus tickets are available, but the dedicated office closes at 5:30 PM. Plan accordingly to avoid missing out.
🗣️ Language Barrier
English is not widely spoken. Have translation apps or key phrases ready for train times and staff communication.
🔌 Onboard Amenities
First-class cabins offer free drinks and beds. Toilets on board often have power plugs (European type).
⚠️ Traffic Woes
Ulaanbaatar traffic is terrible, especially during morning and evening commutes. Allow extra travel time.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Ulaanbaatar Railway Station is a functional, albeit dated, hub with a unique Soviet-era charm. While ticket purchasing is efficient and affordable, visitors should be prepared for limited English signage and potential language barriers. The station's main draw is its role as a gateway to the Trans-Siberian Railway, offering an authentic glimpse into Mongolian travel.
"Buying a ticket was quick and easy. Train and fare info: there's toilets on board, where there are also power plugs (European).
1st class: you get a 'private' cabin for max 4 people (if traveling with less than 4 you may sit with others). You'll be offered drinks (coffee tea and milk), which are free. You'll have the possibility to sleep in a bed, but can also sit on benches.
2nd class: you'll be sitting with families in open booths (in 2 rows) and seats won't be appointed.
There are 'guest books' where you can leave a message.
Difficulties: the timetable isn't translated. It was unclear whether we would be traveling for 12 hours or would arrive at 12 o'clock and staff couldn't clarify (and wouldn't get help). Luckily there was a lady who helped us a bit."
Joachim
"You can buy really cheap train ticket (hard seat for 12 000 MNT) to get to Zamiin-Uud (close to the Chinese border).
There is almost no queue (at least during week days at the end of September) to buy train tickets and the ticket number system (for queuing) is quite efficient.
It is also possible to buy bus tickets (which avoid the journey to the bus stations). For this, be careful as the ticket office dedicated to bus closes at 5pm30."
Alexis B.
"The traffic is terrible in the morning and night. There isn't a whole lot to do. There are a few good places but yeah, not a whole lot"
Bold-Ochir Bold-Ochir
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The airport is over an hour's drive from the city center and the railway station, especially during peak traffic hours. Taxis are available, but it's advisable to pre-book or confirm the fare beforehand.
Taxis are generally available outside the station. However, due to potential language barriers and traffic, it's recommended to have your destination written in Mongolian or use a ride-hailing app if available.
Ulaanbaatar experiences severe traffic congestion, particularly during morning and evening rush hours. Plan your journey to and from the station with significant buffer time.
While bus tickets can be purchased, there's a dedicated ticket office for buses that closes at 5:30 PM. It's best to confirm operating hours if you plan to buy bus tickets there.
The railway station is located within the city of Ulaanbaatar, but its distance from key tourist areas can vary. Walking might be feasible for some central locations, but taxis or public transport are often more practical.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Buying tickets is generally a quick process, especially on weekdays, with an efficient queuing system. Hard seat tickets to destinations like Zamiin-Uud are very affordable.
Yes, there are typically first and second-class options. First class offers private cabins for up to four people with complimentary drinks, while second class has open booths with unassigned seating.
Information on advance ticket purchase is limited, but buying on the day is usually efficient, especially during weekdays. For popular routes like the Trans-Siberian, checking with local travel agencies might be an option.
Domestic routes are very affordable. For example, a hard seat ticket to Zamiin-Uud, near the Chinese border, costs around 12,000 MNT.
There is no security check to enter the station or platforms, and people can walk around freely. Therefore, there is no specific entrance fee to access the station premises.
🎫 🚆 Onsite Experience
The station has basic amenities. First-class train cabins offer drinks and sleeping berths. Toilets on board may have power plugs. There are also 'guest books' for messages.
Wi-Fi availability at the station itself is not widely reported. It's advisable to have a local SIM card or rely on mobile data for internet access.
While there might be some small eateries or vendors, the selection is limited. Travelers often mention finding good food options outside the station or in the city.
Information regarding accessibility for people with disabilities is scarce. Given the older infrastructure, it's advisable to contact the railway company directly for specific needs.
English signage and information are very limited. Most notices and announcements are in Mongolian, and staff may have limited English proficiency.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, it is generally safe to take photos at the station as there are no strict security checks preventing access to platforms. Capture the unique architecture and the bustling atmosphere.
The exterior of the station, with its Soviet-era design, is a great subject. The platforms, especially when trains are arriving or departing, offer dynamic shots.
No specific restrictions on photography for personal use have been reported. However, always be mindful of other passengers' privacy.
Early mornings or late afternoons can offer softer light. However, the station's atmosphere is lively throughout the day, providing unique photographic opportunities at any time.
Absolutely! Photographing the iconic trains, especially those on the Trans-Siberian route, is a popular activity for travelers.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
Solo Travelers & Backpackers
History Buffs & Architecture Enthusiasts
Adventure Seekers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Trans-Siberian Railway Experience
From Ulaanbaatar, you can embark on journeys towards Irkutsk in Russia, a gateway to Lake Baikal, or continue further west towards Moscow. The experience is about the journey itself – the changing scenery, the camaraderie with fellow travelers, and the slow rhythm of life on the rails.
While the station itself is basic, the magic lies in the departure and the promise of adventure. Be prepared for a multi-day journey, with varying comfort levels depending on your chosen class. Booking tickets in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak travel seasons.
Navigating Ulaanbaatar's Traffic
This congestion affects not only journeys to and from the airport but also travel within the city, including reaching the railway station. Travelers are advised to allocate considerably more time than they might expect for any journey involving road travel in Ulaanbaatar.
To mitigate this, consider using the efficient queuing system for train tickets on weekdays and exploring options like purchasing bus tickets before the 5:30 PM closing time. For longer distances, the train offers a more predictable travel experience compared to navigating the city's roads.
Station Architecture and Atmosphere
The atmosphere within the station is often described as bustling and somewhat disorganized, with limited English signage and staff. This can present a challenge for international travelers, but it also contributes to an authentic, local feel. Travelers have noted the absence of strict security checks, allowing free movement around the station and platforms, which is unusual in many international terminals.
Despite its utilitarian appearance and occasional disorganization, the station serves as a vital link for both domestic travel and the iconic Trans-Siberian Railway. It's a place where the pulse of Mongolian travel can be felt, offering a unique glimpse into the country's transportation network.

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