population: 1.5 million

extension: 4,704.4 square kilometers

Museums

Great choice! Since you're in Ulaanbaatar, I recommend visiting the National Museum of Mongolia, which showcases Mongolian history and culture. If you're interested in art, you might also enjoy the Zanabazar Museum of Fine Arts, which features Buddhist art and artifacts. Other museums in the area include the Choijin Lama Temple Museum, the Military Museum, and the Museum of Natural History.

Food

Sure! Here are some of the most recommended, popular and typical dishes to eat according to local people in Ulaanbaatar:

1. Buuz: steamed meat dumplings filled with beef or mutton, onions, and sometimes garlic

2. Khuushuur: fried meat pies that are similar to buuz, but larger and flatter

3. Khorkhog: a traditional Mongolian dish made by cooking meat (usually lamb or goat) and vegetables in a pot with hot stones

4. Tsuivan: a noodle dish made with stir-fried vegetables and meat (usually beef or mutton)

5. Boortsog: deep-fried pastries that are often served as a snack or dessert

6. Airag: fermented mare's milk that is a popular beverage in Mongolia

7. Suutei tsai: a salty milk tea that is a staple of Mongolian cuisine

Activities

Sure! Here are some fun activities that local people in Ulaanbaatar enjoy:

1. Visiting the Gandan Monastery, one of the largest and most important Buddhist monasteries in Mongolia.
2. Exploring the Bogd Khan Mountain National Park, where you can hike, bike or horseback ride through scenic trails, visit ancient temples and enjoy panoramic views of Ulaanbaatar.
3. Shopping at the Narantuul Market (also known as the "Black Market"), a bustling bazaar where locals buy everything from traditional Mongolian clothing to souvenirs and household items.
4. Sampling traditional Mongolian cuisine, such as buuz (steamed dumplings), khorkhog (a meat stew cooked with hot stones), and airag (fermented mare's milk).
5. Attending a cultural performance, such as a traditional throat singing concert, a folk dance show, or a contemporary play at the Mongolian State Academic Theatre of Opera and Ballet.