Ulaanbaatar Railway Station - Image 1
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Ulaanbaatar Railway Station

4
·171 reviews·Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia

A historic Soviet-era station, the vital hub for the Trans-Siberian Railway and domestic travel in Mongolia.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, efficient ticketing

CrowdLow
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Ulaanbaatar Railway Station - Image 1

Ulaanbaatar Railway Station

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, efficient ticketing

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A historic Soviet-era station, the vital hub for the Trans-Siberian Railway and domestic travel in Mongolia.

4
(171 reviews)

"The gateway to the legendary Trans-Siberian Railway, offering a unique glimpse into Mongolian travel."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 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.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Trans-Siberian Journey

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

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

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.

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Planning Your Visit

Navigating the Station

Ulaanbaatar Railway Station, a relic of Soviet-era architecture, can feel a bit chaotic. While buying tickets is generally straightforward with efficient queuing systems on weekdays, be prepared for limited English signage and staff. Consider having key phrases or a translation app handy for train times and platform information. Reddit

Getting to and From

The station is a significant distance from the airport, with travel times exceeding an hour, especially during peak traffic. Morning and evening commutes in Ulaanbaatar are notoriously bad. Factor in ample time for transfers to avoid missing your train or flight. TikTok

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, efficient ticketing
Crowd
Low
When
Late September
Why
Minimal queues for tickets
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

#mongolia #mongolian #mongol #монгол #tiktokmongolia #tiktok #🇲🇳 #ulaanbaatar #CapCut #gremix #tushig #fpy #mongolempire #mongols #монголия #монголия🇲🇳 #💜 #fpyシ #mongoliatiktok #mongoliantiktok #tiktokmongolian #mongolia🇲🇳 #mongoltiktok #mongolian🇲🇳 #tiktok_mongolia
@mongolia_
192.9K likes • 4.9M views

🎯 Ticket Buying Ease

Buying train tickets is usually quick with efficient queuing on weekdays. Hard seat tickets to Zamiin-Uud are very affordable. Reddit

🚌 Bus Ticket Caution

Bus tickets are available, but the dedicated office closes at 5:30 PM. Plan accordingly to avoid missing out. Reddit

1st Arrival In Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia #mongolia #ulaanbaatar #travel #traveltiktok
@ken_abroad
169.9K likes • 3.3M views
Departure of international train no. 305 Ulaanbaatar - Irkutsk at Ulaanbaatar railway station, Mongolia #eisenbahn #nightjet #Поезд #тепловоз #электрово́з #железныедороги #жд #РЖД #Укрзалізниця #поїзд #ulaanbaatar #irkutsk #уланбатор #монголия #иркутск
doc7austin0trains
156 likes • 2.3K views

🗣️ Language Barrier

English is not widely spoken. Have translation apps or key phrases ready for train times and staff communication. Reddit

🔌 Onboard Amenities

First-class cabins offer free drinks and beds. Toilets on board often have power plugs (European type). Reddit

✅ TranSiberia #shh2025trip to fulfil my my second last item #transiberia on the #bucketlist. KLIA-Seoul (6hrs flight)-Ulaanbataar (~3hrs)-4 train networks (6 nights)-Moscow-Abu Dhabi (6hrs)-KLIA (7hrs) consisted from 7th until 22nd August 2025). Trans-Siberian Railway is a network of train routes across Russia, with the main line connecting Moscow to Vladivostok. It's the longest railway line in t...
sitihawabthamzah
34 likes • 457 views

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. Reddit

🚌 Bus Ticket Caution

Bus tickets are available, but the dedicated office closes at 5:30 PM. Plan accordingly to avoid missing out. Reddit

🗣️ Language Barrier

English is not widely spoken. Have translation apps or key phrases ready for train times and staff communication. Reddit

🔌 Onboard Amenities

First-class cabins offer free drinks and beds. Toilets on board often have power plugs (European type). Reddit

⚠️ Traffic Woes

Ulaanbaatar traffic is terrible, especially during morning and evening commutes. Allow extra travel time. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4
(171 reviews)

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. Reddit

"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

Efficient ticket buying
Affordable domestic fares
Trans-Siberian gateway

What People Dislike

Limited English
Disorganized feel
Traffic congestion

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. TikTok

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. Reddit

Ulaanbaatar experiences severe traffic congestion, particularly during morning and evening rush hours. Plan your journey to and from the station with significant buffer time. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. TikTok

🎫 🎫 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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Instagram

Domestic routes are very affordable. For example, a hard seat ticket to Zamiin-Uud, near the Chinese border, costs around 12,000 MNT. Reddit

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. Reddit

🎫 🚆 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. Reddit

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. TikTok

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. TikTok

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. Reddit

English signage and information are very limited. Most notices and announcements are in Mongolian, and staff may have limited English proficiency. Reddit

📸 📸 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. Reddit

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. Instagram

No specific restrictions on photography for personal use have been reported. However, always be mindful of other passengers' privacy. Reddit

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. TikTok

Absolutely! Photographing the iconic trains, especially those on the Trans-Siberian route, is a popular activity for travelers. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

Solo Travelers & Backpackers

Ulaanbaatar Railway Station is your gateway to adventure, especially if you're embarking on the Trans-Siberian Railway. Buying tickets is straightforward, and the affordability of domestic routes like to Zamiin-Uud is a huge plus for budget-conscious travelers. Reddit Be prepared for the language barrier; having a translation app is essential for smooth communication regarding train times and platforms. Reddit Embrace the local atmosphere and the unique Soviet-era architecture as part of your authentic travel experience. Reddit

History Buffs & Architecture Enthusiasts

For those fascinated by Soviet-era architecture, Ulaanbaatar Railway Station is a must-see. Its design offers a tangible connection to Mongolia's past. Reddit Observe the functional yet imposing structure and imagine the historical significance of this transportation hub. Reddit While information might be scarce in English, the visual experience of the station itself, along with its role in connecting Mongolia to the wider world via the Trans-Siberian Railway, provides a rich historical context. Instagram

Adventure Seekers

The station is the starting point for epic journeys, most notably the Trans-Siberian Railway. If you're seeking an unforgettable adventure, this is where it begins. Instagram Consider the journey to Irkutsk or further west as part of your Mongolian exploration. Instagram Be aware of the significant travel times involved and the potential for traffic delays when reaching the station, so plan your departure with ample time. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Trans-Siberian Railway Experience

Ulaanbaatar Railway Station is a crucial stop for the Trans-Siberian Railway, a legendary network of train routes connecting Moscow to Vladivostok, with branches extending into Mongolia and China. Traveling this route is often considered a bucket-list adventure, offering a unique perspective on the vast landscapes of Eurasia. Instagram

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. Instagram

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. Instagram

Navigating Ulaanbaatar's Traffic

One of the most frequently mentioned challenges for visitors to Ulaanbaatar, including those using the railway station, is the city's notorious traffic congestion. Morning and evening commutes can be particularly severe, significantly impacting travel times. TikTokReddit

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. TikTok

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. Reddit

Station Architecture and Atmosphere

Ulaanbaatar Railway Station stands as a testament to Soviet-era architecture, offering a distinct visual experience for visitors. Its design evokes a sense of history, a stark contrast to modern transportation hubs. Reddit

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. Reddit Travelers have noted the absence of strict security checks, allowing free movement around the station and platforms, which is unusual in many international terminals. Reddit

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. Instagram

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