26-05-2025
The best solo travel destinations in Asia
For a different mode of travel
Take it up a notch and explore Mongolia's vast and picturesque landscapes by train. We recommend an 11-day bullet train tour that starts in Beijing, China, and ends in Ulaanbaatar.
What to do The Trans-Mongolian railway journey by Intrepid Travel takes you from China's Inner Mongolia region, following the ancient path of tea caravans through to Mongolia's capital of Ulaanbaatar. Set to start in June 2025, it passes mesmerising sites like the unique Asihatu Stone Forest and the Hunshandake Sandy Land in the China portion of the journey, then the Khamriin Monastery in Sainshand and the steppes of Khustai National Park. Spend a day with a family of herders and end the railway journey in Ulaanbaatar by staying in a traditional yurt.
If you prefer a shorter version of the trip that stays within Mongolia's borders, hop on the regular train service from Ulaanbaatar to Zamiin-Uud and Erenhot. The journey takes about two days, and you will cross the steppes and the Gobi Desert, all great landscapes to view.
Where to stay Stay in one of Ulaanbaatar's newest five-star hotels, The Corporate Hotel and Convention Centre, located near the iconic must-visit Sukhbaatar Square. Also consider Zuut Hotel, situated close to the capital's State Opera and Ballet Academic Theatre, where you can catch world-class performances of traditional Mongolian music and dance.
Where to eat Located at the Shangri-La Hotel, Naadam is a great bar and restaurant that serves cocktails, international meals, and vegetarian options. Another safe bet is Modern Nomads, an established chain of restaurants serving Mongolian cuisine.
