Cooking Class in a Traditional Ger Home in Ulaanbaatar Suburbs

A Genuine Taste of Mongolia in a Traditional Ger Home

Imagine stepping into a round felt Ger, a portable Mongolian dwelling, just outside Ulaanbaatar, where you’ll spend about three hours learning to cook authentic Mongolian dishes like homemade noodles and steamed dumplings. Led by local hosts Begzsuren, Mungunsoyombo, and their children, this private experience offers a rare window into nomadic life and culinary traditions far from the tourist crowds — and all for $164 per person.

What we especially love about this tour is how personal and immersive it feels. First, you’re welcomed with fresh nettle tea foraged from nearby mountains, which immediately sets a tone of genuine local hospitality. Second, the hosts’ enthusiasm and knowledge turn a simple cooking lesson into a cultural journey. On the flip side, some travelers may find the location in the suburbs less scenic than city-center attractions, and the experience’s remote setting might mean a longer journey depending on your hotel location.

This experience is perfect for those who want more than just sightseeing — if you’re eager to learn about Mongolian life through food and conversation, you’ll find this tour rewarding. It’s especially suited for food lovers, culture enthusiasts, or anyone craving an authentic taste of Mongolia in a setting that feels like visiting a friend’s home.

Key Points

• Authentic setting: Cook inside a traditional Ger, providing a genuine Mongolian homestay experience.
• Cultural insight: Beyond the food, learn about Mongolian customs, traditions, and daily life from your hosts.
• Personalized experience: This is a private, tailored activity ensuring plenty of interaction and questions.
• All-inclusive: Round-trip transfers from your Ulaanbaatar hotel are included, making logistics simple.
• Flexible options: Vegetarian menu available — just mention dietary restrictions when booking.
• Highly rated: Consistently praised with a perfect 5-star rating based on 59 reviews, emphasizing sincerity and warmth.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Location and Setting

This tour takes place in a traditional Ger — a round felt tent that Mongolians have used for centuries — located in the suburbs of Ulaanbaatar. Unlike city-center attractions, this offers a more local, residential atmosphere. You’re welcomed into a family’s home, which is not a staged tourist spot, but a real window into everyday nomadic life.

Travelers often mention the warmth of the hosts, with one reviewer describing their experience as feeling like they’ve visited “a friend’s family,” rather than taking part in a commercial activity. You’ll enjoy not only the cooking but also the neighborhood walk afterward, which adds a personal touch missing from more cookie-cutter tours.

Transportation and Convenience

Your hosts arrange round-trip transfers from your hotel, removing any guesswork about how to get there. Most reviews note punctual pickups, and the journey involves a short taxi or local bus ride before walking to the Ger. This added convenience makes it suitable for travelers who prefer a stress-free experience, especially if unfamiliar with local transport options.

The Cooking Experience

The main event is a one-hour hands-on cooking lesson. Mungunsoyombo guides you through making two traditional dishes — often steamed dumplings and noodle soup — from family recipes using fresh, local ingredients. The process is very interactive, with hosts patiently demonstrating each step and encouraging your participation.

Guests consistently mention how enjoyable and educational the cooking is. One reviewer exclaimed, “Despite our amateurish assistance, the dishes turned out to be the best we’ve had,” highlighting the approachable nature of the class. The focus on scratch-made dishes emphasizes the value of learning authentic techniques rather than just tasting prepared food.

Cultural Connection

What makes this experience stand out is how culture and customs are woven into the lesson. As you cook, your hosts share stories about Mongolian traditions, such as the significance of certain ingredients or the role of Shagai (ankle bones) games. The warm nettle tea — foraged by Begzsuren himself — is just a small taste of how resourcefulness and connection to nature are woven into daily life.

Many reviews highlight the depth of knowledge and friendliness of the hosts. For example, Rae_L called it a “life-changing experience,” emphasizing how much she learned about Mongolian culture beyond just food. Gabriel_R mentioned their hosts as “absolutely wonderful,” passionate about sharing their traditions.

The Meal and Atmosphere

After cooking, you’ll sit down to enjoy your homemade dishes in the cozy Ger, often with other family members present. The delicious food — praised for its authenticity and flavor — is a highlight. Guests often comment that the dishes are better than they expected, especially given the simplicity of the ingredients.

The atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming, with conversations flowing freely about life in Mongolia, the food, and the hosts’ personal stories. One reviewer summed it up as “more than a cooking class — it’s a window into real Mongolian life.”

Price and Value

At $164 per person, this tour offers a considerable value for those seeking an authentic cultural experience. It’s not just about the food — it’s about connecting with local people, learning their traditions, and gaining insights that are impossible in a busy city tour. Several reviews explicitly mention how warm and genuine the hosts are, which adds emotional value to the experience.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is best for foodies, culture seekers, and adventurers who want to step off the beaten path. It’s ideal for those who enjoy hands-on participation and are interested in learning about Mongolian nomadic life in a relaxed, intimate setting. Travelers who appreciate personal stories and authentic hospitality will find this tour particularly memorable.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

If you’re looking for a meaningful, hands-on cultural experience in Ulaanbaatar, this cooking class in a traditional Ger is well worth the price. It offers more than just a meal — it’s a sincere glimpse into Mongolian family life, cuisine, and traditions. The fact that it’s private makes it even more special, allowing you to customize some aspects and ask questions freely.

However, keep in mind that the location is in the suburbs, which might mean a longer journey depending on where you’re staying. But most reviews suggest that the warmth of the hosts and the quality of the food far outweigh this minor inconvenience. If you’re curious about Mongolian culture and want to learn in a setting that feels authentic and heartfelt, this experience will be a highlight of your trip.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, round-trip transfers from your Ulaanbaatar hotel are provided, making it easy to join without worrying about logistics.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately three hours, with about one hour dedicated to cooking and additional time for eating and conversation.

Can I request vegetarian options?
Absolutely. The tour offers vegetarian options, but it’s best to specify dietary restrictions when booking to ensure your hosts prepare accordingly.

What dishes will we cook?
Typically, you’ll learn to make traditional Mongolian foods such as steamed dumplings and noodle soup, though menu options might vary by season.

Is this experience suitable for families?
Yes, it’s a family-friendly, private experience, making it suitable for travelers of all ages interested in authentic culture.

How far in advance should I book?
Most bookings are made about 28 days in advance, so planning ahead is recommended, especially during peak travel seasons.

If you want more than just sightseeing and crave a true taste of Mongolia’s culinary and cultural soul, this tour offers a memorable way to connect with local life. You’ll leave not just with new recipes but with stories and memories that bring Mongolia’s nomadic spirit to life.