Trans-Siberian 02: Seoul - Ulaanbaatar

"Remember, you have no companions but your shadow..." - Genghis Khan

(Our second visit to Mongolia)

Day 02: Friday, 3 May 2024
Flight Route: Seoul - Ulaanbaatar
Hotel: Platinum Hotel Ulaanbaatar

Arrived at Incheon International Airport at 0650 hrs for a two hour transit. Unfortunately our three packs of sambal sotong in the carry-on bag were confiscated at the Korean security checkpoint even though we were only on transit. The sambal sotong is quite watery, we would have exceeded the 100 ml limit for liquid. Next time, had to remind me to pack them in the checked baggage!

(Sunrise over the horizon)

(Incheon International Airport transfer lounge) 

Went direct to Gate 253 for our onward flight to Ulaanbaatar. The KE197 flight departed at 0810 hrs. Rice and fish curry were served for breakfast on board the flight.

(Heavy breakfast before landing)

Arrived at the new Ulaanbaatar Chinggis Khan International Airport at 1050 hrs. Chinggis Khaan International Airport at Tergelen also referred to as New Ulaanbaatar International Airport, is the primary airport serving Ulaanbaatar, and is Mongolia's only international airport. It opened on 4 July 2021, replacing Buyant-Ukhaa International Airport.

(The new Chinggis Khan International Airport)

(Our Trans-Siberian group at the Arrival Hall)

Immigration and custom checks were smooth. We were met by the jovial Mr. Mando, our Mongolian local tour guide. We boarded the coaster and headed to Ulaanbaatar. We were stuck for almost two hours in the massive traffic jam. With vehicle numbers exploding, Ulaanbaatar is on the brink of total immobility.

(Stuck in the traffic jam in Ulaanbaatar)

After tackling a challenging traffic jam, we finally arrived at Hazara Halal Indian Restaurant for a hearty lunch of Garlic Naan and Beef Masala. After lunch we checked-in Platinum Hotel where we will be spending two nights here.

(One of the many halal restaurants in town)

(Delicious finger licking Beef Masala with Garlic Naan)

After a short rest, we went to Ulaanbaatar Hard Rock Café, a 10 minutes walking distance to Chinggis Khan Square and the magnificent Mongolian Parliament House. It is nested in the newly built Naran Place Shopping Complex.

(Hardrock Cafe Ulaanbaatar)

(A must visit for Hard Rock Cafe diehard fans) 

(Checking out the rock n' roll memorabilia)

On the way back to the hotel. we stopped for dinner at a Kazakhstan Halal Restaurant. We shared a plate of tasty beef rice and pizza.

(Halal menu at a Kazakh Restaurant)

(Having an early dinner after a long walk) 

(Trying out Beef Stroganoff, Mongolian style)

The weather was windy and chilly when we walked back to our hotel for a good night's sleep. The temperature was 7°C outside.

(Platinum Hotel, our lodging for two nights)

(A large comfortable room)

👈👈Day 01: Incheon, Korea✈️

Day 03: Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia👉👉