Ulan Ude Travel Guide

Discover Ulan Ude, a charming city in Eastern Siberia, with our comprehensive travel guide. Find top attractions, outdoor activities, best time to visit, and more.


Travel Guide to Ulan Ude: Explore Russia’s Hidden Gem in Buryatia

Nestled in the heart of Eastern Siberia, Ulan Ude is an enchanting city that offers visitors a glimpse into Russian culture, history, and natural beauty. With its unique blend of Eastern and Western influences, Ulan Ude is a must-visit destination for travelers looking to experience a lesser-known part of Russia. In this travel guide, we’ll explore the top attractions, activities, and insider tips for making the most of your trip to Ulan Ude.

Introduction to Ulan Ude

Founded in the 17th century as a fortress, Ulan Ude is the capital of Buryatia, an autonomous republic in Russia. The city is located on the banks of the Selenga River and is surrounded by scenic countryside and mountains. Ulan Ude has a rich history and culture, heavily influenced by its proximity to Mongolia and China.

List of Places to Visit in Ulan Ude

From cultural attractions to natural wonders, Ulan Ude has something for everyone. Here’s our list of top places to visit in Ulan Ude.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Ivolginsky Datsan – This is the center of Buddhism in Russia, located about 30 km from Ulan Ude. It houses an impressive collection of Buddhist art and artifacts.

  2. Old Believers’ Museum – This museum is dedicated to the history of the Old Believers, a religious group that split from the Russian Orthodox Church.

  3. Lenin’s Head – A monument to the famous Russian Revolutionary, this giant head of Lenin’s is one of the most recognizable landmarks in the city.

Natural Attractions of Ulan Ude: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Lake Baikal – This remarkable natural wonder is located about 2 hours from Ulan Ude by car and is the world’s deepest freshwater lake.

  2. Arshan – A small village located about 120 km from Ulan Ude, Arshan is known for its hot springs and hiking trails.

  3. Selenga River – The longest river in Mongolia and Russia, the Selenga River runs near Ulan Ude and is a popular spot for fishing and kayaking.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Ulan Ude

Ulan Ude offers plenty of opportunities to get outdoors and explore on foot or by bike. Here are some of the best hiking/biking routes in the city:

  1. The Great Baikal Trail – This long-distance trail offers stunning views of Lake Baikal and the surrounding countryside.

  2. Hamar-Daban – The mountain range near Ulan Ude offers plenty of hiking and trekking opportunities for all skill levels.

  3. Uda River – This scenic river valley is the perfect place for a leisurely bike ride and picnicking.

Best Things to Do in Ulan Ude: Activities and Tours

Whether you’re interested in culture or adventure, Ulan Ude has plenty to offer. Here are our top picks for things to do in the city:

  1. Visit the open-air Ethnographic Museum – This living museum showcases traditional Buryat culture and features reconstructed dwellings, temples, and workshops.

  2. Take a city tour – A guided tour of Ulan Ude will give you insight into the city’s history and culture.

  3. Go skiing near Lake Baikal – In the winter, the slopes near Lake Baikal offer top-notch skiing and snowboarding.

Week-Long Itinerary for Ulan Ude

For a comprehensive Ulan Ude experience, we recommend the following week-long itinerary:

Day 1 – Arrive and explore the city center. Visit the Soviet Square and the Opera and Ballet Theater.

Day 2 – Take a guided city tour and visit the Cathedral of the Holy Trinity.

Day 3 – Visit the Ethnographic Museum and learn about Buryat culture. In the evening, head to a local restaurant for dinner.

Day 4 – Take a day trip to Lake Baikal and go fishing or hiking.

Day 5 – Go cycling in the Selenga River valley.

Day 6 – Visit Ivolginsky Datsan and the Old Believers’ Museum.

Day 7 – Take a relaxing day trip to Arshan and soak in the hot springs.

Food and Drink Scene of Ulan Ude

Ulan Ude’s rich culinary traditions are a reflection of its location and cultural influences. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Pozy – A meat-filled dumpling dish that’s popular throughout Russia.

  2. Buryat buuzh – A regional version of pozy, these steamed dumplings are filled with minced meat and onion.

  3. Kharcho – A spicy soup made with beef, tomatoes, and rice.

Local Beverages

  1. Buryat tea – Made with milk and salt, this tea is a staple of Buryat culture and is served at most meals.

  2. Khvanchkara wine – A sweet red wine made in the Caucasus Mountains.

  3. Mongolian vodka – Similar to Russian vodka, Mongolian vodka is known for its quality and smoothness.

Where to Stay in Ulan Ude: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Ulan Ude has a range of accommodations to suit all budgets and preferences. Here are some top options:

  1. Hotel Baikal Plaza – A 4-star hotel in the city center with beautiful views of the Selenga River.

  2. Hostel Mosaic – A budget-friendly option for backpackers and solo travelers.

  3. Guest House Ulan-Ude – A family-run guesthouse with cozy rooms and a friendly atmosphere.

What to Buy in Ulan Ude: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

When in Ulan Ude, be sure to pick up a few souvenirs and local products to bring home. Here are some top recommendations:

  1. Traditional Buryat clothing – Look for authentic handmade clothing, like khadags, shapka hats, and deels – long robes with a sash.

  2. Souvenirs – Stop by the Baikal Souvenir Shop for local crafts and souvenirs, including jewelry, decorative boxes, and magnets.

  3. Baikal fish – Smoked and dried fish from Lake Baikal is a tasty souvenir to bring home.

Local Culture and Customs of Ulan Ude

Ulan Ude’s culture is a unique blend of Russian, Mongolian, and Chinese influences. Respect for elders and hospitality are important cultural values in the city.

Best Time to Visit Ulan Ude

The best time to visit Ulan Ude is between June and August when the weather is warm and pleasant. However, the city is enjoyable year-round, with winter offering opportunities for skiing and snowboarding.

Do’s and Don’ts of Ulan Ude

Do:

  1. Dress appropriately – Ulan Ude is a conservative city, so dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites.

  2. Respect the culture – Learn about local customs and traditions, and respect them when interacting with the locals.

  3. Try the food – Ulan Ude’s cuisine is a unique blend of Russian and Mongolian influences, and it’s worth exploring.

Don’t:

  1. Touch someone’s head – In Buryat culture, the head is considered sacred, so avoid touching someone’s head.

  2. Wear shoes indoors – It’s customary to remove your shoes before entering someone’s home or a temple.

  3. Be loud or disruptive – Ulan Ude is a fairly quiet city, so be mindful of your behavior in public areas.

Safety and Health

Safety in Ulan Ude

Ulan Ude is generally a safe city, but it’s always a good idea to take precautions when traveling. Be aware of your surroundings, and keep your belongings secure.

Health in Ulan Ude

Ulan Ude has a few hospitals and clinics that offer medical care. Be sure to have travel health insurance before visiting.

Getting to Ulan Ude: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Ulan Ude

  1. Ulan-Ude Airport (UUD) – The city’s primary airport offers flights to major Russian cities.

Bus Stations Near Ulan Ude

  1. Ulan-Ude Bus Station

Other Options

  1. Train – Ulan Ude is accessible by train from Moscow, Irkutsk, and other major Russian cities.

  2. Car – Renting a car is a great way to explore the region around Ulan Ude.

How to Get Around in Ulan Ude

Ulan Ude is a compact city and is easy to navigate on foot. Taxis and buses are also available for longer journeys.

Where to Go Next from Ulan Ude: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  1. Irkutsk – A charming city located on the shores of Lake Baikal, about 6 hours from Ulan Ude by train.

  2. Mongolia – Ulan Bator, the capital of Mongolia, is located about 8 hours from Ulan Ude by car or train.

  3. Vladivostok – A scenic port city on the east coast of Russia, located about 2,000 km from Ulan Ude.

Conclusion

Ulan Ude is a hidden gem in Eastern Siberia, and a visit to this charming city is sure to be a memorable experience. With its unique culture, natural beauty, and friendly locals, Ulan Ude is a must-visit destination for travelers looking to explore Russia off the beaten path.

A pretty wooden house in the old part of Ulan-Ude A pretty wooden house in the old part of Ulan-Ude The largest Lenin head in the world The largest Lenin head in the world Ethnographic Museum gate Ethnographic Museum gate The Odigitrievsky Cathedral The Odigitrievsky Cathedral