For travelers seeking stillness, meaning, and elevated wellness, a luxury spiritual retreat in Mongolia has quietly emerged as one of 2026’s most intriguing new openings.
Ayan Hotels & Resorts has unveiled Ayan Zalaat, a refined sanctuary set within a lush valley just outside Ulaanbaatar. Designed as a place for reflection and mindfulness, the property offers a rare blend of contemporary luxury, ancient spiritual heritage, and immersive wellness—positioning Mongolia as an unexpected destination for transformative travel.
A Sacred Setting Rooted in History
Located near the Bogd Khan Uul UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, Ayan Zalaat sits within the Zalaat Valley—an area revered for centuries by Buddhist monks as a place of spiritual study and enlightenment. The name “Zalaat,” translated from Sanskrit as “Gift From God,” reflects the deep cultural and spiritual significance of the land.
This sense of reverence is woven into every aspect of the hotel, offering guests a peaceful counterpoint to the dramatic landscapes of the nearby Gobi Desert.
Refined Architecture Designed for Stillness
Developed by Mabetex Group and designed by Italian architect Fabio Frisco, Ayan Zalaat is a masterclass in restrained elegance. A marble-clad lobby welcomes guests into a calming, light-filled space, with custom stone used throughout the property to create visual continuity.
The hotel features 32 contemporary rooms and suites, each designed with neutral tones, bespoke furnishings, and expansive mountain-view windows. Traditional Mongolian craftsmanship—such as Erdenet carpets—adds cultural depth, while spa-like bathrooms with deep soaking tubs reinforce the retreat’s wellness-first philosophy.
A Global Culinary Journey in the Heart of Mongolia
Dining at Ayan Zalaat is as intentional as its design. The property houses 10 restaurants and lounges, offering a curated international culinary experience:
- Roma Ristorante – Mediterranean-inspired Italian cuisine
- Nipponian Room – Japanese dining with sushi and teppanyaki
- 8 Ounce Steakhouse & Grill – Premium local and imported cuts
- Lost in China – Regional Chinese specialties
Guests can also unwind in the cigar lounge, wine cellar with sommelier, rooftop terrace, or one of several intimate lounges designed for conversation and contemplation.
Wellness, Mindfulness, and Cultural Immersion
As a true luxury spiritual retreat in Mongolia, Ayan Zalaat goes far beyond a traditional spa offering.
- Soma Temple: Guests can engage with resident Buddhist monks to explore mindfulness philosophies and spiritual teachings rooted in centuries of tradition.
- Ayan Theater: Experience authentic Mongolian culture through khöömei throat singing and Biyelgee folk dance.
- Spa & Longevity Center: Developed in collaboration with Switzerland’s Clinique Nescens, the wellness center features saunas, salt rooms, chronotherapy showers, and preventative longevity treatments inspired by Buddhist principles and Mongolian architecture.
Beyond the Retreat: Adventure and Exploration
Balancing serenity with adventure, Ayan Zalaat also offers curated experiences across Mongolia, including:
- Off-roading expeditions
- Remote travel via small aircraft
- Bowling and karaoke facilities on-site
Future developments include 21 private residential villas, helicopter services, and luxury glamping experiences—further expanding the resort’s vision as a holistic lifestyle destination.
A New Chapter for Luxury Travel in Mongolia
“Ayan Zalaat was envisioned as a place where many experiences could coexist within one setting,” said Tselmuun Nyamtaishir, Founder and CEO of Ayan Hotels & Resorts. More than a hotel, it represents a commitment to shaping the future of high-end tourism in Mongolia.
For travelers drawn to destinations that nourish both body and spirit, Ayan Zalaat stands as a rare and compelling escape—where luxury meets mindfulness, and ancient wisdom meets modern design.