Overview
Erdenet is a planned Soviet-era city of nearly 89,000 people, Mongolia's second largest city and the capital of Orhon province. The city exists because of one of the world's large open pit copper mines, making it alongside Ulaanbaatar the most developed town in the country.
Budget Travel · Day Trips · Transit Hub
Before you go
Activities
Best time is during Naadam (July 11-13) for archery. Training at south stadium in late afternoons (not if raining, rare in winter). Copper mine visits by appointment.
Food
Downtown has Korean, Chinese, Russian, and vegetarian restaurants. Avoid Korean/Chinese restaurants due to food quality concerns. Local Tsainii gazar canteens are safer choices.
Money
Local currency is Mongolian tugrik (₮). Selenge Hotel charges USD15-45. Avoid shopping on salary days (14-16th and 29-31st) when prices increase 10-30%.
Safety
Road from Ulaanbaatar has many accidents due to speeding drivers. City centre is safe and clean.
Transport
Daily buses and mini-vans from Ulaanbaatar (Dragon coach station, 11,000₮ coach fare). Night train from Ulaanbaatar at 20:20, arriving 07:45 (6,800₮ third class).
