Shopping in Ulaanbaatar
Discover 10 markets, shops, and shopping spots in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia. From local markets to specialty stores — curated from real traveler tips.
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Naran Tuul
If you want to shop like most locals, Naran Tuul is the place to haggle over cheap clothes, toys, fur hats, soviet propaganda pins, or any necessary you can imagine. This is the main market for most of the city's residents and sprawls over many hectares. It is partially indoors. There are several slightly more upscale shopping centers just west of the market. Only take a minimum of cash with you in a money belt or inner jacket pocket and leave all valuables at your accommodation, as pickpockets are common here. It's a 10-minute bus or taxi ride from the city center.
Closed on Monday -
Librairie Papillon
If you want to find very high quality books about Mongolia or the Mongolian language in European languages (French and English mostly) this place has a very large selection. They are located on University Ave, just past the main Mongolian National University building. The atmosphere is very nice, and is almost like taking a little break from Mongolia and entering France. They also have a large selection of European language classics if you would like reading material for your journey.
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State Department Store
Former state owned mall, today is the busiest luxury shopping mall in the city. The 6 floor mall sells everything from groceries to cashmere to TVs. Though no longer part of the state, the customer service still has a certain government services feel. Check out the 5th floor for the largest souvenir shops in UB.
10:00-22:00 -
Good Price Supermarket
Catering to expats and wealthier Mongolians, it is the most reliable source of peanut butter, breakfast cereals, canned beans, and cheese in Mongolia. Though these luxuries come at a much higher price than any other supermarket in Mongolia.
09:00-10:00 -
3rd & 4th Microdistrict
Probably the largest shopping districts in the city. It has several malls, name-brand stores, restaurants, supermarkets, curbside booths, and a movie theater. Selection ranges from luxury brands down to cheap Chinese imports.
northwest side of Gandan, 2 km north of Train Station -
The Seven Summits Outdoor Shop
Pricey, but you may be able to get gear you can't find elsewhere. e.g. an adaptor for a screw-on stove to use the ubiquitous clip-on cylinders, since screw-on types seem to be unavailable anywhere.
Building 61 Entrance 10 Sukhbaatar District / 1st Horoo Ulaanbaatar Mongolia Website -
Mike's Bookstore
See their website for details. They sell many used books and sometimes buy books, there is a buyback policy.Mostly English books, but some in other languages
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Mercury Food Market
A small market center near the center of the city is one of the best places to get imported fruits and vegetables, as well as imported packaged goods.
Closed on Mondays -
Flower Center
One of the larger souvenir shops in the city. Has a broad selection, but a bit pricy. There is money exchange center on the 2nd floor.
Peace Avenue & Inner Ring Road, west of Sukhbaatar Sq -
Mary & Martha
A small Free Trade shop full of beautiful hand made souvenirs, handbags, and wall-hangings.
Travel tips by Wikivoyage contributors (CC BY-SA 3.0). Verify opening hours before visiting.
Shopping Guide for Ulaanbaatar: Markets, Stores & Souvenirs
Shopping in Ulaanbaatar is one of the best ways to experience local culture beyond the usual tourist trail. Whether you're browsing open-air markets for fresh produce and local specialties, hunting for antiques in backstreet shops, or looking for handcrafted souvenirs to bring home, Ulaanbaatar's shopping scene has something for every kind of traveler.
This guide lists 10 shopping spots in Ulaanbaatar sourced from Wikivoyage — the community travel guide written by real travelers. These are the shops, markets, and stores that visitors actually recommend to each other.
Shopping Tips for Travelers in Ulaanbaatar
- Visit markets early for the best selection at Ulaanbaatar's food and craft markets.
- Carry local cash — many independent vendors and market stalls prefer cash over cards.
- Check opening days — many specialty shops in Ulaanbaatar are closed on Sundays or have limited weekend hours.
- Ask about local products — the best souvenirs are made locally, not imported for tourist shops.
- Use Nomax to connect with travelers currently in Ulaanbaatar who can share real-time shopping tips.
Meet Fellow Travelers in Ulaanbaatar
Download Nomax to see other travelers currently in Ulaanbaatar. Find a market companion, share shopping discoveries, or join city activities organized by the traveler community. Free on iOS and Android.
Frequently Asked Questions: Shopping in Ulaanbaatar
Where to shop in Ulaanbaatar?
Ulaanbaatar has 10 curated shopping spots including markets, specialty stores, and local boutiques. This guide covers the best places to shop in Ulaanbaatar, from open-air markets to specialist shops. Use Nomax to connect with fellow travelers who can share shopping tips.
What souvenirs to buy in Ulaanbaatar?
The best souvenirs from Ulaanbaatar are locally produced food and drink, handmade crafts, books about the city, and artisan goods. Markets are the best place to find authentic products. Check listings in this guide for specialty shops and markets in Ulaanbaatar.
Are there markets in Ulaanbaatar?
Yes, Ulaanbaatar has several markets in this guide including food markets, antique fairs, and craft markets. Opening days and hours vary by market — check individual listings before visiting.
Is Nomax free to use in Ulaanbaatar?
Yes, Nomax is completely free. Download it on iOS or Android to connect with travelers currently in Ulaanbaatar, join activities, and get shopping recommendations from people who know the city.
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