When you think of a sauna, what comes to mind? Is it the intense heat of a traditional wooden room, perhaps nestled beside a frozen lake? Or maybe a more modern, spa-like environment with pools and professional treatments? In Ulaanbaatar, the understanding of 'sauna' is wonderfully broad, offering something for almost everyone.
For those seeking a comprehensive wellness experience, places like UB Massage spas provide not just professional body scrubs and washes in pristine settings, but also point towards larger establishments for a full aquatic journey. The Grand Hill Hotel spa, for instance, is often mentioned for its complete pool and sauna facilities, alongside a highly praised body washing service. It’s a place where you can truly unwind and refresh.
But Ulaanbaatar’s sauna landscape extends beyond the typical hotel spa. You'll find the Gobi sauna, a large, family-friendly Korean-style establishment that welcomes visitors to stay for extended periods. It’s spacious enough to accommodate groups and is conveniently located a few kilometers from the city center. Then there’s the Gold Hotel, situated on Peace Avenue, which boasts an in-house sauna and massage parlor, offering a convenient blend of relaxation and pampering.
For a more specialized experience, Lhamour spa caters specifically to women, focusing on beauty and cosmetic treatments alongside its sauna and spa offerings. It’s a sanctuary tucked away in the southeastern part of the city. You'll also encounter other saunas scattered throughout Ulaanbaatar, each with its own unique audience and quality. The Flower hotel sauna, for example, tends to attract tourists and business travelers, located a short distance east of the center. The Sauna at Sunjin Grand hotel, while a bit further out, is a relatively large facility recommended for those staying in the vicinity, though commuting during rush hour can be a challenge.
Encanto sauna and spa is known for its relaxation-focused approach and good facilities, though it comes with a higher price tag. Bliss Fitness club, based in the BlueSky Hotel, offers a large pool and more limited sauna amenities, also at a premium. It’s clear that whether you're looking for a simple steam, a therapeutic massage, or a full-day wellness retreat, Ulaanbaatar has a surprising variety of options to explore.
And speaking of massages, the influence of Thai massage is palpable in Ulaanbaatar. This ancient practice, with roots stretching back thousands of years and a rich history tied to Buddhist traditions, has found a welcoming home here. Traditional Thai massage, or 'nuat thai,' involves a unique blend of stretching, pressure point application, and rhythmic movements, often compared to a form of assisted yoga. Therapists traditionally use their hands, knees, and feet to apply pressure, and the massage is typically performed on a firm mattress on the floor, with clients wearing loose clothing. Oils are not traditionally used, and the focus is on freeing up the body's energy pathways.
While many massage spas in Ulaanbaatar incorporate elements of Thai massage into their services, for a truly traditional experience, Lotus Thai is often recommended. Run by Thai expatriates, this spa offers authentic Thai massages, with some therapists boasting over two decades of experience. It’s a place where you can delve into the deep therapeutic benefits of this ancient art form, perhaps enjoying a warm cup of tea afterward, a perfect way to round off a session, especially during Ulaanbaatar's chilly winter months.
