Ulan-Ude - Discovering Russia

Travelling to Ulan-Ude

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Ulan-Ude, a pretty good destination in Russia (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Ulan-Ude and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Ulan-Ude, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Russia, here's everything to know about Ulan-Ude for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Ulan-Ude

Ulan-Ude is a city located in the southeast of Russia, near the border with Mongolia. It is the capital of the Buryat Republic and has a population of about 400,000 people. The city is located on the Trans-Siberian Railway, which makes it a popular stop for travelers exploring Russia. Ulan-Ude is known for its mixture of cultures, with a large Buryat population and a strong influence from neighboring Mongolia. The city is home to several landmarks, including the world's largest head of Lenin and the Ivolginsky Datsan, a Buddhist temple and center of Buddhist studies.

What to visit in Ulan-Ude

Sure, here are some top tourist attractions in Ulan-Ude, Russia: 1. Ivolginsky Buddhist Monastery: This is one of the most famous and important Buddhist monasteries in Russia. It was founded in 1945 and attracts thousands of pilgrims and tourists every year.
2. Odigitrievsky Cathedral: This is a beautiful Russian Orthodox Cathedral located in the center of Ulan-Ude. It was built in the 18th century and has a unique blue and white exterior.
3. Ethnographic Museum of the Peoples of Transbaikalia: This museum showcases the cultural heritage and traditions of the indigenous peoples of the region. It has a collection of over 90,000 exhibits.
4. Holy Trinity Church: This is another beautiful Russian Orthodox Church built in the 19th century. It has unique architecture, with five domes and intricate carvings on the exterior.
5. Buryat State Academic Opera and Ballet Theatre: This is the main theater of Ulan-Ude and features performances of ballet and opera. It has a beautiful interior and hosts many cultural events throughout the year.
6. Victory Park: This park was built in honor of the Soviet victory in World War II and has a large monument dedicated to the soldiers who fought and died in the war. It also has a museum and a variety of recreational activities such as hiking and picnicking.
7. Lenin Head Statue: This is a famous monument in Ulan-Ude, featuring the world's largest head of Vladimir Lenin. It is a popular photo spot for tourists and locals alike.
Overall, Ulan-Ude has a rich cultural heritage and plenty of interesting attractions for visitors to explore.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Russia, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Ulan-Ude.

When to go on holiday to Ulan-Ude

The best time to visit Ulan-Ude is during the summer months, from June to August, when the weather is warm and sunny. The average temperature during these months ranges from 16°C to 25°C. The monsoon rains typically arrive in September and last until early October, making this period the least recommended for travel. The winter months (November to April) can be very cold, with temperatures below freezing and plenty of snow. However, if you enjoy winter sports and festivals, this can be a great time to visit Ulan-Ude. Overall, I would recommend planning your trip to Ulan-Ude during the summer months, as this is when you will be able to enjoy the city's outdoor attractions and lush green scenery to the fullest.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Ulan-Ude

Ulan-Ude is located in eastern Russia and there are several ways to reach it. Here are a few suggestions: 1. By air: The easiest and fastest way to reach Ulan-Ude is by air. There are several airlines that offer direct flights to Ulan-Ude from Moscow. Alternatively, you can also fly from other major cities like St. Petersburg, Krasnoyarsk, and Irkutsk.
2. By train: Ulan-Ude is connected to major cities in Russia by rail. There are regular trains from Moscow, St. Petersburg, and Irkutsk. The journey from Moscow takes around 4 days, but it is a scenic route and is one of the best ways to see the country.
3. By bus: There are several bus services that operate between Ulan-Ude and other major cities in Russia. However, the journey can be long and tiring.
4. By car: If you are feeling adventurous, you can also drive to Ulan-Ude. However, be prepared for a long journey as the roads can be rough and the distances are vast.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Ulan-Ude, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Ulan-Ude

Ulan-Ude is the capital of the Buryat Republic, located in the eastern part of Siberia. The city is known for its unique blend of Russian, Mongolian and Buryat cultures, which is reflected in its cuisine. Here are some typical foods of Ulan-Ude with a short description for each of them: 1. Buuzy - steamed meat dumplings filled with beef, mutton or pork. They are a popular snack served with sour cream or tomato sauce.
2. Pozi - similar to buuzy but with a thinner dough and more filling. They are usually fried or boiled and served with meat soup.
3. Buryat salad - a refreshing salad made with cucumber, onion, tomato, radish, and boiled eggs. It is usually dressed with sour cream.
4. Shulik - a skewered meat dish made with lamb or mutton and seasoned with salt, black pepper, and cumin. It is usually grilled over an open fire and served with vegetables.
5. Tarasun - a traditional Buryat beverage made with fermented milk and barley flour. It is sour and slightly alcoholic.
6. Posikunchik - a sweet pastry made with flour, butter, sugar, and jam. It is a popular dessert that is often served with tea.
7. Suutei tsai - a salty milk tea with added butter and salt. It is usually served with buuzy or pozi.
8. Bortsog - a fried or baked doughnut-like pastry that is often served with tea. It is a popular snack all over Siberia.
9. Khuushuur - fried meat pies that are filled with beef or mutton and sometimes vegetables. They are usually seasoned with salt and pepper.
These are just a few examples of the many delicious foods found in Ulan-Ude. Buryat cuisine is unique and flavorful, and definitely worth trying if you ever have the opportunity.
You can find general info about typical foods in Russia here.

Is Ulan-Ude an expensive destination for tourists?

Ulan-Ude is generally considered to be an affordable destination for tourists, especially when compared to other major cities in Russia. Accommodation, transportation, and food in Ulan-Ude are relatively cheap, and there are plenty of free or low-cost activities to enjoy. However, prices may vary depending on the season and the type of experiences you want to have, so it's always a good idea to research and compare costs before planning your trip.

Where to find accomodation in Ulan-Ude

The best areas to find accommodation in Ulan-Ude, Russia are the city center, Sovetsky, and Leninsky districts. The city center has easy access to many tourist attractions, restaurants, and shopping centers. Sovetsky district is a quieter area that offers a variety of accommodation options and is closer to the airport. The Leninsky district is also a good option with easy access to the main road connecting to neighboring cities.
You can check hotel prices at Ulan-Ude here:
Booking.com

Is Ulan-Ude a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Ulan-Ude is generally considered a safe place for tourists to visit in Russia. However, as with any destination, it is important to take basic safety precautions such as being aware of your surroundings, keeping an eye on your belongings, avoiding isolated or poorly lit areas at night, and staying vigilant in crowded areas. It is also advisable to follow the guidance of local authorities and to check for any travel advisories before your trip. Overall, Ulan-Ude is a beautiful city with many interesting sights to see, and with the right precautions, it should be a safe destination to visit.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Russia here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Ulan-Ude.

What type of travelers will enjoy Ulan-Ude the most?

Ulan-Ude is a city in Russia that can be enjoyed by various types of travelers, ranging from history buffs to nature lovers. It is a great destination for families, couples, and solo travelers who want to explore a lesser-known area of Russia. History enthusiasts will enjoy visiting the Old Believers Museum, the Ethnographic Museum, and the Ivolginsky Datsan, which is the center of Buddhism in Russia. Young people looking for fun can visit the local bars and nightclubs, as well as the city's amusement park. Families might enjoy visiting the Buryatia State Nature Museum, which has many interactive exhibits and displays about the local flora and fauna. The city also offers many opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking and skiing, making it a great destination for nature lovers.
Overall, Ulan-Ude has something to offer for travelers of all ages and interests.

How to get around Ulan-Ude

To move around Ulan-Ude, you can use public transport such as buses and trolleybuses. There are also taxis, which are generally quite affordable. Another option is to rent a car or hire a private driver for greater flexibility and comfort. Additionally, Ulan-Ude has a train station that connects it to other cities in Russia.

What to see around Ulan-Ude

Certainly! Here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Ulan-Ude: 1. Ivolginsky Datsan - a beautiful and historically significant Buddhist monastery located just outside of Ulan-Ude.
2. Lake Baikal - the world's deepest and largest freshwater lake is only a two-hour drive from Ulan-Ude. Take a boat ride or hike in the scenic surroundings.
3. The Old Believers Village - located in the town of Tarbagatay, this historic settlement dates back to the 17th century.
4. The Ethnographic Museum of the People of Transbaikalia - located in the town of Ust-Barguzin, this museum exhibits the unique culture and traditions of the area.
5. Shamanka Rock - a sacred spot located on Olkhon Island in Lake Baikal, believed to be a place of power by the indigenous Buryat people. 6. The village of Khuzhir - located on Olkhon Island, a beautiful and tranquil village with picturesque views, sandy beaches and delicious food.
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