State Department Store

Overview

The State Department Store is a Soviet-era department store in the centre of Ulaanbaatar that remains the city's go-to retail destination. The top floor houses a popular souvenir market and cashmere outlets, while lower floors sell electronics, clothing, and groceries.

Highlights

• Top-floor souvenir market: Mongolian crafts, cashmere products, traditional instruments, and paintings sold by independent vendors.
• Cashmere outlets: Factory-price cashmere from Mongolian brands like Gobi and Goyo.
• Soviet architecture: The building itself is a classic Brutalist design from the communist era.

History

Built in 1921 as one of the first modern commercial buildings in Mongolia, the State Department Store was the country's largest retail space throughout the communist period. It has been renovated multiple times but retains its Soviet exterior.

Visitor Tips

• Tip 1: Head straight to the 5th floor for souvenirs — prices are clearly marked and fairly priced.
• Tip 2: The ground-floor supermarket is useful for stocking up on Mongolian snacks and airag (fermented mare's milk).
• Duration: 30–45 minutes.