Zaisan Hill - A Memorial to Unknown Soldiers and Heroes

Visiting Ulaanbaatar? Then Zaisan Hill must be included in the tour itinerary.
 

It is a ring-shaped structure built to commemorate the sacrifice of the Mongolian and Soviet soldiers martyred in World War II. A circular mural exhibits the friendship shared by the Mongolians and people of the USSR.

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There are 612 steps that need to be climbed to reach the top of the memorial from the bottom. If you take your car to the top parking spot ($0.50 per hour parking charges) then you climb 300 stairs. Climbing to the top rewards you with a panoramic view of the mountains and Tyyl river that wash the banks of the city. Carry your camera as the view of the entire city of Ulaanbaatar is captivating.
 

The 33-foot-tall (10 meters tall) imposing statue of a Russian soldier holding a flag is the most dominating part of the Zaisan Hill monument. On the circular mural, you can spot some historical events like the declaration of Mongolian independence with support from Soviet in 1921, the famous Soviet Soyuz 39 flight that carried the first Mongolian into space, defeat of the Japanese in 1939 that brought Mongolia in the Soviet sphere of influence, victory over Nazi Germany that included the Mongolian troops who were subsumed in the Red Army also finds a place in the 360-degree circular ring among many other noteworthy events.
 

A T34 Soviet tank mounted on a concrete pedestal that celebrates the efforts of the Mongolia People's Tank Brigade, that covered a distance from Moscow to Berlin in World War II is also part of this memorial.
 

The Zaisan Hill is open to visitors 24 hours, so you can plan a visit at any time you please. There is no entry fee. In the winters, the steps usually get slippery due to ice, so stepping up the slippery surface can be dangerous. Most visit in the hill in the early hours to witness the sunrise. So, if you are an early riser or can convince yourself to be a part of this spectacular natural treat, don't miss this opportunity.

 Located in the southern part of the city many who can afford to, include this trip in the package tours available in city guided tours that can cost anything from $2,500 - $5,500.

However, if you don't wish to take this expensive alternative you can try venturing your own way.

Take a taxi (all charge a standard T800 per kilometre i.e. 0.6 miles). For short trips, taxis are more convenient than bus trips.
 

The No. 7 bus will take you to the base of the hill. Bus trips cost T500. They are usually crowded. You have to pay by U Money card for (T3, 600). They can be bought from local shops or kiosk around the town. Do not forget to swipe in and swipe out while boarding and alighting the bus.
 

Trolleybuses are also available, trips cost T300. The bus route is illustrated at the side of the bus for passenger convenience.
 

However, if you like walking and are somewhere close to the Ulaanbaatar center and are up for an hour walk then this could be a delightful trip in itself.
 

A short but memorable trip that adds to your experience of Mongolia. Inundated with natural beauty Zaisan Hill represents the glory from the rich historical part of Mongolia. It is a must-visit destination.