Narantuul Market Ulaanbaatar
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Narantuul Market Ulaanbaatar

3.8
·3k reviews·Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia

Ulaanbaatar's sprawling 'Black Market,' a vibrant bazaar offering everything from traditional Mongolian crafts to everyday goods at bargain prices.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds, better bargaining

CrowdLow
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Narantuul Market Ulaanbaatar

Narantuul Market Ulaanbaatar

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds, better bargaining

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Ulaanbaatar's sprawling 'Black Market,' a vibrant bazaar offering everything from traditional Mongolian crafts to everyday goods at bargain prices.

3.8
(3k reviews)

"It's a combination of wholesale and retail grand bazaar but mostly consisting of clothing of all kinds, shoes, belts, knock offs."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Beware of Pickpockets

Keep valuables secure and be aware of your surroundings. Many visitors warn about pickpocketing.

💰 Cash is King

While some vendors accept cards, cash is preferred for bargaining and smaller purchases. :moneybag:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Traditional Mongolian Clothing

Traditional Mongolian Clothing

Various Stalls

Discover authentic deel robes, hats, and accessories. Perfect for a unique souvenir or a taste of Mongolian heritage.

Horse Riding Gear

Horse Riding Gear

Specialized Stalls

From saddles to boots, find high-quality, handcrafted horse tack. A must-see for equestrian enthusiasts.

Camping & Outdoor Equipment

Camping & Outdoor Equipment

Dedicated Sections

Stock up on durable camping gear, often at unbeatable prices. Ideal for adventurers planning expeditions.

Local Food Stalls

Local Food Stalls

Scattered Throughout

Experience authentic Mongolian flavors. Grab a quick, delicious, and affordable meal amidst the market buzz.

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Planning Your Visit

Navigating the Narantuul Market Maze

Ulaanbaatar's Narantuul Market is a sprawling bazaar, often called the 'Black Market.' While it offers incredible finds, be prepared for crowds and potential pickpockets. Keep valuables secure and stay aware of your surroundings. It's a vibrant slice of Mongolian life, so embrace the chaos!

Bargaining & What to Buy

While some vendors accept cards, cash is king for bargaining. Expect to find everything from traditional Mongolian clothing and horse tack to camping gear and everyday items. Prices are often significantly lower than in state stores, making it a great spot for souvenirs and practical purchases.

Best Times

When
Weekday Mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, better bargaining
Crowd
Low
When
Late Afternoon
Why
Local shoppers arrive
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Mongolia's Most Dangerous Market #mongolia #ulaanbaatar #travel #traveltiktok
@ken_abroad
36.4K likes • 830.6K views

🎯 Beware of Pickpockets

Keep valuables secure and be aware of your surroundings. Many visitors warn about pickpocketing. TikTokInstagram

💰 Cash is King

While some vendors accept cards, cash is preferred for bargaining and smaller purchases. :moneybag:

Beware of pickpockets if you come here apparently, but let's look at all the cool things you can get at the Narantuul Black Market in Ulaanbaatar 🇲🇳 #narantuul #markettour #mongolia #ulaanbaatar #livingabroad #mongoliatrip #travellingasia #travel
travelling.british.guy
29 likes • 2.4K views
Narantuul Market #narantuulmarket #narantuul #ulaanbaatar #mongol #cinematography #4k
aoiseto0525
119 likes • 2.5K views

🗣️ Bargain with a Smile

Haggling is part of the fun! Be polite and jovial when negotiating prices. :grinningfacewithsmilingeyes:

👟 Comfortable Shoes Needed

You'll be doing a lot of walking! Wear comfortable shoes to explore the vast market. :athletic_shoe:

Visit Ulaanbaatar’s chaotic Black Market with a local✨🇲🇳 👉🏻 MeanwhileinMongolia.com/black-market-tour #mongolia #local #localmarket #localshopping #blackmarket #narantuul #ulaanbaatar #ulaanbaatarmongolia🇲🇳 #gomongolia #visitmongolia #traveldeeper #immersivetravel #adventure #solotravel
meanwhileinmongolia
121 likes • 6.3K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Beware of Pickpockets

Keep valuables secure and be aware of your surroundings. Many visitors warn about pickpocketing. TikTokInstagram

💰 Cash is King

While some vendors accept cards, cash is preferred for bargaining and smaller purchases. :moneybag:

🗣️ Bargain with a Smile

Haggling is part of the fun! Be polite and jovial when negotiating prices. :grinningfacewithsmilingeyes:

👟 Comfortable Shoes Needed

You'll be doing a lot of walking! Wear comfortable shoes to explore the vast market. :athletic_shoe:

🗺️ Get a Local Guide

A local guide can help navigate the market and find specific items. :walking:

What Travellers Say

3.8
(3k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Narantuul Market is a vast and vibrant bazaar offering an authentic glimpse into Mongolian commerce and culture. Visitors praise the incredible variety of goods, from traditional clothing and horse tack to camping gear, often at bargain prices. However, the market's size and reputation for pickpocketing require visitors to be vigilant and prepared for a chaotic, yet rewarding, experience.

"Great place to wander around and find pretty much whatever can look/find in a black market. Good place to find a bargain on Mongolian traditional clothing and souvenirs"

Andy Dembe

"Nice place to visit for clothes, camping gears and other stuff. It is overwhelming since there are a lot of stalls here. One can get easily tempted to buy camping gears"

Hungry JJ

"Excellent place to visit in Ulaanbaatar, very nice to know the Mongolian culture. In addition to buy Chinese products at good price!! There are also good locals restaurants."

Jacqueline Rutkowski

What People Like

Authentic atmosphere
Wide variety of goods
Great bargains

What People Dislike

Pickpocketing risk
Overwhelming size
Crowded aisles

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

You can reach Narantuul Market by taxi, which is readily available and relatively inexpensive in Ulaanbaatar. Alternatively, local buses also serve the area, offering a more budget-friendly option. Many visitors opt for a taxi for convenience, especially if carrying purchases. Instagram

Yes, taxis are usually available outside the market, especially during peak hours. It's advisable to agree on a fare before starting your journey or ensure the meter is used. Instagram

Depending on your starting point in Ulaanbaatar, walking might be possible, but the market is quite large and can be a significant distance from central tourist areas. Taxis or buses are generally more practical. :world_map:

Several local bus routes pass by or near Narantuul Market. It's best to ask your hotel or a local for the most current and convenient bus numbers, as routes can change. :bus:

The market is a vast, open-air space with uneven ground and crowded aisles, which can be challenging for those with mobility issues. It's not ideal for wheelchairs or strollers. :wheelchair:

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, there is no admission fee to enter Narantuul Market. It's a public market, and you can wander through the stalls freely. :ticket:

Narantuul Market typically opens early in the morning and closes in the late afternoon or early evening. It's best to visit during daylight hours. Specific closing times can vary. :clock3:

Yes, Narantuul Market is generally open seven days a week, including weekends. Weekends can be busier with local shoppers. :calendar:

Yes, several local tour operators offer guided tours of Narantuul Market, which can enhance your experience and help you navigate the vast space. Instagram

While it's known as a 'black market,' most items sold are legitimate goods. However, it's always wise to be aware of local regulations regarding certain items. :warning:

🎫 🛍️ Shopping & Souvenirs

You can find a wide array of items, including traditional Mongolian clothing (deels), horse tack, camping gear, souvenirs, leather goods, and everyday necessities. It's a great place for bargains. InstagramReddit

Absolutely! Bargaining is expected and part of the shopping experience at Narantuul Market. Be polite and friendly when negotiating prices. :moneywithwings:

Some vendors, especially those selling higher-value items or catering to tourists, may accept credit cards. However, it's best to carry cash as many smaller stalls only accept Mongolian Tugrik. :credit_card:

Look for stalls selling traditional clothing, felt crafts, and handcrafted leather goods. The horse tack section is also a unique place for authentic items. Reddit

Yes, prices are generally negotiable. Don't hesitate to offer a lower price, but do so respectfully. You can often get items for about 50% less than in state stores. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, you'll find numerous local restaurants and food stalls scattered throughout the market, offering authentic Mongolian cuisine at affordable prices. Reddit

Expect traditional Mongolian dishes like khuushuur (fried dumplings), buuz (steamed dumplings), and various meat stews. It's a great way to experience local flavors. :ramen:

While generally safe, it's always wise to exercise caution with street food. Look for stalls that appear clean and busy with locals. :stomach:

Vegetarian options can be limited, as Mongolian cuisine is heavily meat-based. However, some stalls might offer vegetable-based soups or sides. :leafy_green:

Food prices are very reasonable, making it an excellent option for budget-conscious travelers. You can get a filling meal for just a few dollars. :dollar:

📸 📸 Photography

Photography is generally allowed, but it's always polite to ask permission before taking close-up shots of vendors or their goods. Some people might be camera-shy. Instagram

The vibrant stalls, colorful textiles, unique products, and the bustling crowds offer plenty of photographic opportunities. Capture the authentic atmosphere. Instagram+1

Yes, due to the risk of pickpocketing, be extra vigilant with your camera and phone. Keep them secure and out of sight when not in use. TikTok

Respect local customs. Avoid intrusive photography, especially of people. Always ask for permission if you're focusing on an individual. :camerawithflash:

The market is mostly open-air, so natural daylight is the primary light source. Some covered areas might be dimmer. Early morning or late afternoon can offer softer light. :sunrise:

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Narantuul Market can be an overwhelming but educational experience for families. While the sheer size and crowds might be challenging for very young children, older kids can enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and the novelty of such a large bazaar.

Tips for families: Keep a close eye on children, especially in crowded areas, due to the risk of pickpocketing. Focus on specific sections like clothing or souvenir stalls to avoid overwhelming them. Consider a shorter visit if children are easily tired. TikTok

💰 Budget Travelers

Narantuul Market is a paradise for budget travelers. You can find incredible deals on clothing, souvenirs, camping gear, and more. Bargaining is key to maximizing your savings. Reddit

Eating at the local food stalls within the market is also a very affordable way to experience authentic Mongolian cuisine. You can get a hearty meal for just a few dollars, making it an excellent option for keeping food costs down. Reddit

🛍️ Souvenir Hunters

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The 'Black Market' Legacy

Narantuul Market, often referred to as the 'Black Market,' has a fascinating history. While it was once a hub for illicit goods, it has evolved into a massive, legitimate bazaar catering to locals and tourists alike. The name persists, adding to its mystique and drawing visitors eager to experience its unique atmosphere. Instagram+1

Despite its historical nickname, the market today is a vibrant commercial center where you can find almost anything. From everyday necessities to specialized goods, it offers a glimpse into the daily lives and commerce of Ulaanbaatar residents. The sheer scale and variety of products are astonishing, making it a destination in itself. Instagram

Navigating the Vast Bazaar

Prepare for an immersive experience when you visit Narantuul Market. It's a sprawling labyrinth of stalls, so wear comfortable shoes and be ready to walk extensively. The market is divided into different sections, so if you're looking for something specific, like horse tack or clothing, try to orient yourself to those areas. Reddit

Many visitors recommend going with a local guide, especially for first-time visitors. A guide can help you navigate the immense space, find specific items, and even assist with bargaining. This can significantly enhance your experience and ensure you don't miss out on hidden gems. Instagram

Key takeaway: Embrace the organized chaos! The market's sheer size and variety are part of its charm. Don't be afraid to explore, get a little lost, and discover unexpected treasures. Instagram

Shopping for Authentic Mongolian Goods

Narantuul Market is an excellent place to find authentic Mongolian products, particularly traditional clothing and horse riding gear. You can find beautifully crafted deels (traditional robes), hats, and accessories that reflect the rich cultural heritage of Mongolia. InstagramReddit

The market is also renowned for its high-quality horse tack. If you're interested in equestrian items, you'll find a wide selection of saddles, bridles, and other gear, often handcrafted by local artisans. Prices here are significantly lower than in state stores, making it a prime location for acquiring these unique items. Reddit

Beyond traditional items, the market offers a vast range of goods, including camping equipment, leather products, and souvenirs. It's a place where you can truly experience the local economy and find unique items to take home. Remember to bargain respectfully to get the best deals. Instagram

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