Mercury Market - Image 1
1 / 3

Mercury Market

1
·1 reviews·Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia

Ulaanbaatar's sprawling Narantool Market, a vibrant hub for bargain hunting, local crafts, and everyday goods. Be prepared for crowds and haggle for t...

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, better deals

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Mercury Market - Image 1

Mercury Market

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, better deals

CrowdLow

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Ulaanbaatar's sprawling Narantool Market, a vibrant hub for bargain hunting, local crafts, and everyday goods. Be prepared for crowds and haggle for the best deals!

1
(1 reviews)

"Narantool Market is a must-visit for bargain hunters, offering a vast array of goods at unbeatable prices."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Be Pickpocket Aware

Narantool Market is known for pickpockets. Keep valuables secure and be mindful of your surroundings.

💰 Haggle for Prices

Bargaining is part of the shopping experience. Start lower than you're willing to pay and negotiate respectfully.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Bargain Hunting

Bargain Hunting

Narantool Market

Discover a vast array of goods, from clothing and electronics to local crafts. Haggling is expected, so embrace the experience!

Local Flavors

Local Flavors

Various food stalls

Sample traditional Mongolian cuisine, often meat-heavy, and explore unique local dishes. Don't miss the chance to try something new!

Ger District Exploration

Ger District Exploration

Ger districts

Witness the unique urban nomadic lifestyle in the 'ger districts,' where traditional yurts coexist with modern city life.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Navigating the Narantool Market

Ulaanbaatar's Narantool Market, often dubbed 'Mercury Market,' is a sprawling hub for goods. Be aware of your surroundings, as pickpocketing is a common concern. Keep valuables secure and stay vigilant, especially in crowded areas. TikTok

Cold Weather Preparedness

Ulaanbaatar experiences extreme cold, with temperatures dropping significantly. Pack warm layers, including thermal wear, a heavy coat, hat, gloves, and waterproof boots. TikTok

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, better deals
Crowd
Low
When
Summer afternoons
Why
Warmer weather for exploring
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

#mongolia #mongolian #mongol #монгол #tiktokmongolia #tiktok #🇲🇳 #ulaanbaatar #CapCut #gremix #tushig #fpy #mongolempire #mongols #монголия #монголия🇲🇳 #💜 #fpyシ #mongoliatiktok #mongoliantiktok #tiktokmongolian #mongolia🇲🇳 #mongoltiktok #mongolian🇲🇳 #tiktok_mongolia
@mongolia_
192.9K likes • 4.9M views

🎯 Be Pickpocket Aware

Narantool Market is known for pickpockets. Keep valuables secure and be mindful of your surroundings. TikTok

💰 Haggle for Prices

Bargaining is part of the shopping experience. Start lower than you're willing to pay and negotiate respectfully. Reddit

1st Arrival In Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia #mongolia #ulaanbaatar #travel #traveltiktok
@ken_abroad
169.9K likes • 3.3M views
Mercury shipping les trae mercury market. Televisones recien llegadas de USA a buen precio
mercuryshipping
197 likes • 76.9K views

🧥 Dress in Layers

Ulaanbaatar's weather is extreme. Pack warm clothing, including a good coat, hat, and gloves. TikTok

🗣️ Learn Basic Phrases

Knowing a few Mongolian phrases can enhance interactions and help with bargaining. Reddit

IAMM = The Mercury Market → the world’s first music stock exchange, where independent artists list their songs like assets, and influencers, brands, and fans invest by buying streaming shares. Coming 🔜 #TheMercuryMarket #IAMM #IndependentArtistMercuryMarket #MusicStockMarket #StreamsIntoShares #MadeOnMercury #NumerologyInMusic #FutureOfMusic #MusicCurrency #CulturalCapital
themusicnasdaq
1 likes • 37 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Be Pickpocket Aware

Narantool Market is known for pickpockets. Keep valuables secure and be mindful of your surroundings. TikTok

💰 Haggle for Prices

Bargaining is part of the shopping experience. Start lower than you're willing to pay and negotiate respectfully. Reddit

🧥 Dress in Layers

Ulaanbaatar's weather is extreme. Pack warm clothing, including a good coat, hat, and gloves. TikTok

🗣️ Learn Basic Phrases

Knowing a few Mongolian phrases can enhance interactions and help with bargaining. Reddit

📱 Stay Connected

Consider getting a local SIM card for easier navigation and communication. TikTok

What Travellers Say

1
(1 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Narantool Market (Mercury Market) is a vast and bustling marketplace offering a wide array of goods at competitive prices, making it a prime spot for bargain hunters. Visitors appreciate the sheer variety and the opportunity to haggle for unique finds. However, many caution about pickpocketing and advise staying vigilant. TikTokReddit

"The soil of the year bvtegdhvvnee taniltsuulj tailbrLaj chadgv so gzr
Hudldagch in utsaar toglool uur you hiidgv"

gan tun

What People Like

Incredible variety of goods
Low prices and bargaining
Authentic local experience

What People Dislike

Pickpocketing risks
Crowded conditions

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Narantool Market is accessible by local buses and taxis from the city center. The drive can take around 30-60 minutes depending on traffic. TikTok Taxis are readily available, but agree on a price beforehand or ensure the meter is used. Reddit

Yes, the airport is over an hour's drive from Ulaanbaatar's city center, so factor this into your travel plans. TikTok

Local buses are very affordable, while taxis offer more convenience. Ride-sharing apps are also becoming more popular. TikTok

Several bus routes serve the market area. It's advisable to ask your hotel or locals for the most convenient route from your location. Reddit

Yes, taxis are usually available around the market, but be prepared to negotiate fares. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Generally, there is no entrance fee to wander through Narantool Market. You only pay for the items you purchase. Reddit

The market typically opens early in the morning and closes in the late afternoon or early evening. It's best to visit during daylight hours. Reddit

Yes, Narantool Market is usually open seven days a week, though it can be busiest on weekends. Reddit

While some vendors might accept foreign currency, it's best to have Mongolian Tugrik (MNT) for purchases. Currency exchange booths are available in the city. Reddit

Weekends can be very crowded, increasing the risk of pickpocketing. Weekday mornings are often recommended for a more relaxed experience. Reddit

🎫 🛍️ Shopping & Goods

You can find a wide variety of goods, including clothing, electronics, household items, souvenirs, and local crafts. InstagramReddit

Yes, bargaining is a common practice. Don't be afraid to negotiate prices, but do so respectfully. Reddit

Groceries can be surprisingly cheap compared to Western countries. TikTok Look for local handicrafts and traditional clothing for unique souvenirs. Reddit

Yes, electronics and mobile accessories are often available. Instagram

Exercise caution when buying street food. Look for vendors with high turnover and ensure food is cooked thoroughly. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The market offers a range of local food stalls. Traditional Mongolian cuisine, often meat-heavy, is prevalent. TikTok

While the market focuses on local fare, Ulaanbaatar has international chains like KFC, which can offer a different fast-food experience. TikTok+1

Dishes often feature lamb and beef. Try 'buuz' (steamed dumplings) or 'khuushuur' (fried meat pastries). TikTok

It's advisable to choose stalls that appear clean and busy. If you have a sensitive stomach, stick to well-cooked options. Reddit

Vegetarian options can be limited, as Mongolian cuisine is traditionally meat-focused. It's best to inquire specifically. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

Photography is generally allowed, but it's always polite to ask permission before taking close-up photos of vendors or their goods. Reddit

Early morning or late afternoon can offer softer light. Capturing the bustling activity during peak hours can also yield dynamic shots. Reddit

The sheer scale of the market, the diverse array of goods, and the interactions between vendors and shoppers offer many photographic possibilities. Reddit

While photographing, remain aware of your surroundings, especially regarding your camera and other valuables, due to pickpocketing risks. TikTok

A versatile lens like a 24-70mm is useful. A smaller, less conspicuous camera might also be preferable in crowded areas. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Visiting Narantool Market with children requires extra vigilance due to crowds and potential pickpocketing. TikTok It might be more enjoyable for younger children to explore the market with a clear objective, perhaps looking for specific toys or souvenirs. Reddit Consider visiting during quieter weekday mornings to avoid overwhelming crowds. Reddit Pack snacks and drinks, as options might be limited or unfamiliar. Reddit For a more relaxed family outing, consider exploring Ulaanbaatar's museums or parks, which might offer more structured activities for children. TikTok

💰 Budget Travelers

Narantool Market is a paradise for budget travelers, offering incredibly low prices on many goods, especially groceries. TikTok Haggling is essential to get the best deals. Reddit Utilize local buses for transportation around Ulaanbaatar to save money. TikTok Be prepared to cook some of your own meals if your accommodation has facilities, as groceries are very affordable. TikTok While some imported goods or specific services might be pricier, overall, Mongolia can be a very budget-friendly destination. TikTok

✈️ Day-Trippers from Ulaanbaatar

If you have a day to explore Ulaanbaatar, Narantool Market is a must-visit for a taste of local commerce and culture. TikTok Allocate at least half a day to wander through its vast offerings and practice your bargaining skills. Reddit Combine your market visit with a quick exploration of a nearby landmark or a traditional Mongolian meal. TikTok Remember to factor in travel time to and from the market, as well as potential traffic delays. TikTokReddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Understanding the Narantool Market Experience

Narantool Market, often referred to as 'Mercury Market' in some contexts, is Ulaanbaatar's largest and most famous market. It's a sprawling labyrinth where you can find almost anything, from everyday necessities and clothing to electronics and souvenirs. TikTok The sheer scale and variety are impressive, offering a glimpse into the daily commerce of the city. However, it's crucial to be aware of your surroundings, as pickpocketing is a known issue. TikTok Many travelers and locals advise keeping valuables secure and staying vigilant. Reddit

Navigating the market can be an adventure in itself. It's a place where haggling is not just accepted but expected. Don't be afraid to negotiate prices, but always do so with a smile and respect. Reddit This interaction is part of the cultural experience. You'll encounter a wide range of vendors, many of whom are eager to make a sale. The market is a vibrant hub of activity, especially during peak hours, offering a sensory overload of sights, sounds, and smells. Reddit

Beyond the shopping, Narantool Market provides an opportunity to observe local life. You'll see people from all walks of life, from families doing their weekly shopping to entrepreneurs selling their wares. TikTok While the market is primarily known for its goods, you can also find food stalls offering traditional Mongolian fare. TikTok Be adventurous and try some local delicacies, but always prioritize hygiene. Reddit

Ulaanbaatar's Climate and What to Pack

Ulaanbaatar is known for its extreme continental climate, with very cold winters and relatively short, warm summers. Temperatures can plummet well below freezing, often reaching -20°C to -30°C (-4°F to -22°F) in winter. TikTok This means packing appropriately is essential for a comfortable visit, especially if you plan to explore the Narantool Market or other outdoor attractions. Layers are key: start with a thermal base layer, add an insulating mid-layer like fleece, and top it off with a heavy, windproof, and waterproof outer coat. TikTok

Don't forget warm accessories. A thick hat that covers your ears, insulated gloves or mittens, and a scarf or balaclava are crucial for protecting exposed skin from the biting cold. TikTok Footwear should be waterproof and insulated to keep your feet warm and dry. Consider thermal socks as well. Even during summer, evenings can be cool, so packing a light jacket or sweater is advisable. TikTok

When visiting Narantool Market, remember that while you'll be moving around, the cold can still seep in. Wearing comfortable, warm clothing will allow you to spend more time exploring the market's offerings without feeling rushed by the elements. TikTokReddit

Navigating Ulaanbaatar's Urban Landscape

Ulaanbaatar, the capital of Mongolia, is a city of contrasts. While it's a modernizing metropolis, it also retains unique cultural elements. A significant feature is the 'ger district' (also known as 'ger horoolol'), where many residents live in traditional yurts, often alongside more conventional housing. TikTok This creates a distinctive urban landscape that's fascinating to explore. Getting around the city can be done via local buses, which are very economical, or taxis. TikTok Ride-sharing apps are also gaining traction. TikTok

The distance from the airport to the city center is considerable, taking over an hour to travel. TikTok This is something to factor into arrival and departure plans. Within the city, traffic can be heavy, so allow ample time for journeys, especially during peak hours. Reddit While many visitors focus on the Narantool Market, exploring other parts of Ulaanbaatar can offer insights into Mongolian culture, from museums and monasteries to modern shopping centers and restaurants. TikTok+1

You may also like