Mongolia

Mongolia: general info for travelers

Mongolia is a landlocked country located in East and Central Asia. It is known for its vast and rugged landscapes, including the Gobi Desert and the grassy steppes of the Mongolian Plateau. The country is sparsely populated, with most of the population living in its capital city, Ulaanbaatar. Mongolia has a rich cultural heritage, with traditional practices such as throat singing and eagle hunting still being practiced today. It is also home to many historic sites and landmarks, most notably the ancient city of Karakorum and the Erdene Zuu Monastery. The country's economy is largely based on agriculture and mineral resources, with industries such as mining and tourism showing growth in recent years.

In this webpage you can find destinations, links and detailed information to organize the perfect holiday in this country full of places to visit. We answer questions such as what to see and what to do, when to go and how to move. We recommend travel itineraries and we provide a list of destinations, each with a link to the dedicated page full of detailed info. So here is everything there is to know for a trip in Mongolia, including gastronomy, safety and events, with a short summary of history and culture.

Mongolia: places to visit

Sure, here are some top places to visit in Mongolia: 1. Ulaanbaatar - Mongolia's capital city, famous for its museums, temples, and lively markets.
2. Lake Khuvsgul - a stunningly beautiful, crystal-clear lake in northwestern Mongolia and home to many ethnic communities.
3. Gobi Desert - a vast desert that spans Mongolia and China and is home to unique rock formations, sand dunes, and diverse wildlife.
4. Terelj National Park - a picturesque park located just an hour away from Ulaanbaatar, famous for its magnificent rock formations, rivers, and valleys.
5. Orkhon Valley - a stunning area located in central Mongolia, famous for its ancient ruins, stunning landscapes, and unique nomadic culture.
6. Karakorum - the historic capital of the Mongol Empire, which includes the ruins of the famous monasteries, palaces, and temples.
7. Altai Mountains - a mountain range which stretches across the western part of Mongolia, reaching elevations of over 4,000 meters.
8. Amarbayasgalant Monastery - one of the most beautiful and well-preserved Buddhist monasteries in Mongolia, renowned for its stunning architecture and serene surroundings.
9. Khorgo-Terkhiin Tsagaan Lake National Park - famous for its stunning lake, Khorgo, and Terkhiin Tsagaan, surrounded by volcanic landscapes and stunning mountain ranges.
All these places offer unique beauty and experiences that make Mongolia a fantastic destination for travelers.
There is more to see and do in Mongolia: further down you can find other info and, in particular, a list of every interesting destination, each with its own webpage containing specific info about attractions to visit, events and more.

Mongolia: when to go on holiday

We listed some places to see in Mongolia, but it's also important to visit them in the right season.
Mongolia experiences extreme weather conditions throughout the year, with hot summers and incredibly cold winters. Here is some information about Mongolia's weather in different seasons: - Spring (March - May): Temperatures begin to rise, but there can still be snow on the ground. The weather is generally dry, but winds can be strong.
- Summer (June - August): This is the peak travel season in Mongolia because of the warm and sunny weather. Temperatures can reach up to 30°C (86°F) during the day, and it can get cool at night.
- Autumn (September - November): This is another good time to visit Mongolia when the weather is dry and temperatures are mild during the day and can be chilly at night.
- Winter (December - February): Mongolia's winters are extremely cold, with temperatures dropping to -30°C (-22°F) or even lower. However, if you're interested in winter activities like skiing, it can be a good time to visit.
In terms of the ideal time to visit Mongolia, it largely depends on what you want to do. Summer is ideal for outdoor activities like hiking, horseback riding, and camping, but it's also the busiest time for tourists. Spring and autumn have milder weather and fewer crowds, while winter is great for those looking to experience Mongolia's unique winter culture.

Mongolia: activities and what to do

Mongolia offers a variety of activities and sports that are perfect for a holiday. Here are some suggestions: 1. Trekking and Hiking: Mongolia has breathtaking landscapes and is a perfect destination for trekking and hiking. Some of the best trekking trails include Altai Tavan Bogd National Park, Gorkhi-Terelj National Park, and Khangai Mountains.
2. Horseback Riding: Horseback riding is a popular activity in Mongolia. The country is known for its strong and sturdy horses, and there are plenty of opportunities for horseback riding tours.
3. Camel Riding: Taking a camel ride across the Gobi Desert is an unforgettable experience.
4. Mountain Biking: Mongolia has a variety of trails for mountain biking enthusiasts. You can explore the terrain of the Altai Mountains or the beautiful countryside.
5. Archery: Archery is a traditional sport in Mongolia, and visitors can learn this skill from locals.
6. Fishing: Mongolia is home to many rivers and lakes that are perfect for fishing. You can catch trout, grayling, and salmon.
7. Skiing and Snowboarding: Mongolia has some great ski resorts that cater to both beginners and experienced skiers and snowboarders. Some popular resorts include Sky Resort, Ulaanbaatar Ski Resort, and Khan Khentii Ski Resort.
These are just a few of the many activities and sports you can enjoy on a holiday in Mongolia.

Mongolia: few words on history and culture

Mongolia is a fascinating country with a rich history and unique culture. The earliest recorded history in Mongolia dates back to the 3rd century BC, when various nomadic tribes lived in the region. These tribes eventually formed into powerful empires, such as the Xiongnu and the Mongol Empire, which once stretched from Eastern Europe to China.
Today, Mongolia is known for its distinctive culture, which centers around nomadic herding and traditional practices such as throat singing, eagle hunting, and wrestling. Mongolian cuisine includes hearty dishes like khorkhog (meat cooked with hot stones) and buuz (steamed dumplings), while traditional clothing includes the iconic del (cloak), deel (robe), and boots made from animal hides.
Mongolia also has a vibrant Buddhist culture, due in part to influence from neighboring Tibet. Throughout the country you can find beautiful monasteries and temples which serve as important spiritual and community centers. Overall, Mongolia is a truly unique and fascinating destination with a rich and complex history and culture.

Mongolia: how to move around on holiday

The most convenient way to reach Mongolia is by air. Chinggis Khaan International Airport in Ulaanbaatar is the main gateway to Mongolia for international flights. There are direct flights to Ulaanbaatar from various major cities of Asia and Europe such as Beijing, Moscow, Seoul, Tokyo, and Istanbul.
Once you are in Mongolia, you can choose to travel by domestic flights, trains, buses, taxis, rented cars, or motorbikes, depending on your itinerary and budget. Mongolia has a relatively well-developed public transportation system, and there are plenty of options for getting around the country. However, please note that some remote areas may require specialized and independent transportation.
In the countryside, horseback riding and using camels or yaks as a means of transportation are also popular options for travelers who want a traditional Mongolian experience. To hire a car to visit Mongolia, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Mongolia: typical gastronomy

It is better to visit Mongolia with a full stomach:D
The main typical foods of Mongolia include: 1. Buuz: These are steamed dumplings filled with ground beef or mutton and onions. They are a staple food in Mongolia, and are usually served with a dipping sauce made of soy sauce and vinegar.
2. Khorkhog: This is a traditional Mongolian barbecue dish made with mutton or goat meat. The meat is cooked with hot stones inside a container, along with carrots, onions, and other vegetables. The result is a tender and flavorful dish that is often eaten at special occasions or celebrations.
3. Boortsog: These are deep-fried cookies or biscuits that are made with flour, sugar, salt and butter. They are often enjoyed as a snack or sweet treat, and can be flavored with cinnamon, cardamom, or other spices.
4. Khuushuur: This is another type of dumpling that is similar to Buuz, but is fried instead of steamed. It is often filled with ground beef or mutton, onions, and sometimes garlic and cumin. Khuushuur is often accompanied by a spicy dipping sauce made of soy sauce and chili pepper paste.
5. Airag: This is a traditional Mongolian drink made from fermented mare's milk. It has a sour taste and a slightly alcoholic content. Airag is often served at festive occasions and during the summer months.
These are just a few examples of the delicious and unique foods that can be found in Mongolia.

Mongolia: costs for tourists and how to save on holiday

Mongolia is considered a relatively affordable destination for tourists, but costs can vary depending on your travel style and preferences. Generally, accommodation, food, and transportation are reasonably priced in Mongolia, but some activities and experiences may be more expensive, such as guided tours or adventure sports. Additionally, if you choose to travel during peak tourist season, prices for accommodations and tours may be higher. However, with some careful planning and budgeting, it is possible to enjoy a trip to Mongolia without breaking the bank.

Mongolia: where to find accodation

There are several options to look for accommodations in Mongolia: 1. Online booking websites such as Booking.com, Agoda or Airbnb that offer a variety of accommodations ranging from budget hostels, ger camps to luxury hotels across the country. 2. Mongolian tourist information centers (located in Ulaanbaatar and larger towns), where you can get recommendations for local guesthouses or ger camps. 3. Local travel agencies that can arrange accommodation for you as part of your tour package or offer standalone accommodation bookings. 4. Traditional ger camps, which are located in more remote areas and offer a unique accommodation experience in a traditional Mongolian yurt. It's always a good idea to book accommodation in advance, especially during the high season (June-August), as availability can be limited.
You can check hotel prices in Mongolia here:
Booking.com

Mongolia: number of tourists and safety

It is always interesting to know how many travelers visit a country, both to understand if it is tourist-friendly and safe and to see if in certain periods it may be too crowded.
Mongolia receives around 500,000 to 600,000 tourists annually. The peak tourist season is from June to September when the weather is milder and most tourist attractions are more accessible. During this time, popular destinations like national parks and popular cultural events may get crowded, especially during national holidays. However, outside of the peak season, the number of visitors is generally lower, and you can enjoy a more peaceful and less crowded travel experience.
Mongolia is generally a safe country for tourists. However, crime against tourists, including theft and pickpocketing, can occur in crowded areas such as markets and public transportation. It is important to be vigilant and take precautions to protect your belongings.
In terms of places to be avoided, you should exercise caution when passing through certain areas of Ulaanbaatar (the capital city) such as the areas surrounding the train station and some of the city's suburbs at night. It is also recommended to avoid traveling alone at night outside of the city, particularly in remote areas, as there have been incidents of banditry and robbery reported in some regions. It is advisable to consult with local authorities or a reputable travel agency prior to traveling to remote areas.
It is always recommended to read updated info about safety in Mongolia on the official website of your Foreign Affairs Ministry.

Mongolia: events for tourists

Mongolia is known for its rich cultural heritage and unique landscape. Here are some of the most interesting events for tourists in Mongolia: 1. Naadam Festival - This is the biggest event in Mongolia and is held annually from July 11-13. It includes traditional sports such as horse racing, wrestling and archery.
2. Golden Eagle Festival - This is held in September in the Altai Mountains of western Mongolia. It is a celebration of the Kazakh culture and features eagle hunting, traditional music and dancing.
3. Gobi Desert Cup - This is a 480 km horse race across the Gobi Desert, which takes place in March-April.
4. Khövsgöl Ice Festival - This is held in March on Lake Khövsgöl, the second-largest freshwater lake in Asia. The festival includes ice-skating, ice-sculpture competitions, traditional food and lots of fun.
5. Mongolian Lunar New Year (Tsagaan Sar) - This is celebrated in February and is a time for family reunions, traditional food and dressing up in traditional clothing.
These are just a few of the many interesting events that take place in Mongolia. I hope this helps you plan your itinerary!

Mongolia: a 2-week travel itinerary

We listed the places to see in Mongolia, here's a possible suggestion on how to visit them.
Sure, here's a suggested two-week itinerary for a typical tourist in Mongolia: Day 1-3: Ulaanbaatar - Visit the National Museum of Mongolia to learn about Mongolian history and culture - Explore the Gandan Monastery, the largest and most important Buddhist monastery in Mongolia - Head to the Zaisan Memorial, a hilltop monument offering panoramic views of the city Day 4-5: Kharkhorin - Visit the ancient capital of Mongolia and the Erdene Zuu Monastery, the first Buddhist monastery in Mongolia and one of the country's most important religious sites Day 6-7: Khangai Mountains - Explore the stunning scenery of the Khangai Mountains - Meet and interact with local nomads and learn about their traditional way of life Day 8-9: Orkhon Valley - Hike through the green forests and visit the impressive waterfall - Visit the Tuvkhun Monastery Day 10-11: Gobi Desert - Explore the stunning sand dunes of Khongoryn Els - Visit Yol Valley National Park and see the wildlife, and admire the unique landscape Day 12-13: Bayanzag and Ongiin Khiid - Explore the Bayanzag Flaming Cliffs, where the first dinosaur eggs were discovered - Visit the ruins of the Ongiin Khiid Monastery and learn about its fascinating history Day 14: Ulaanbaatar - End your trip in the capital city and explore any sights you may have missed - Shop for souvenirs before departing This itinerary offers a mix of cultural sites, stunning landscapes, and outdoor adventure for a memorable two weeks in Mongolia.

Mongolia: all destinations

Here is a comprehensive list of all destinations to visit in Mongolia described in this website, in alphabetical order: by clicking on a link you get to the specific page with all the detailed information about a destination, with every info to organize your trip!
- Altai is a mountainous region located in western Mongolia, sharing borders with Russia, China, and Kazakhstan. It is known for its stunning natural beauty, with high snow-capped mountains, crystal-cle... CONTINUE here for a trip to Altai
- Arvaikheer is the capital city of the Övörkhangai Province in Mongolia. It is located in the central part of the country and has a population of around 31,000. The city is surrounded by the Khangai Mo... CONTINUE here for a trip to Arvaikheer
- Baganuur is a town and district located in the east of Mongolia, near the capital city of Ulaanbaatar. It is known for its coal mines, and many people in the town work in the mining industry. Baganuur... CONTINUE here for a trip to Baganuur
- Baruun-Urt is a city located in the eastern part of Mongolia, in the province of Sukhbaatar. It has a population of around 20,000 people and is situated on the banks of the Selenge River. The city is ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Baruun-Urt
- Bayan-Ölgii is a western province located in Mongolia, bordering Russia and China. It is known for its diverse ethnic communities, including the Kazakh people and their unique culture and traditions. ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Bayan-Ölgii
- Bayangol is a district located in the eastern part of Ulaanbaatar, the capital city of Mongolia. It is known for its large Bayangol Hotel, a landmark building in the area. The district is also home to... CONTINUE here for a trip to Bayangol
- Bayankhongor is a province in western Mongolia, situated in the Great Lakes Depression area. The province is home to diverse ethnic groups including Buryats, Uriankhai, and Khalkh people. The region i... CONTINUE here for a trip to Bayankhongor
- Bulgan is a province located in northern Mongolia, bordered by Russia to the north. Its capital is also called Bulgan and is situated in the central part of the province. The region is known for its u... CONTINUE here for a trip to Bulgan
- Choir is a small town located in the South Gobi province of Mongolia, about 280 kilometers south of the capital city, Ulaanbaatar. It is situated in a picturesque desert landscape and is known for its... CONTINUE here for a trip to Choir
- Choybalsan is a city located in the eastern part of Mongolia, near the border with Russia and China. It is the capital of the province of Dornod and has a population of around 38,000 people. The city ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Choybalsan
- Dalanzadgad is the capital city of the South Gobi province in Mongolia. It is located in the southern part of the country, 540 km south of the capital city, Ulaanbaatar. The city has a population of a... CONTINUE here for a trip to Dalanzadgad
- Darkhan is the third largest city in Mongolia, located in the northern part of the country. Founded in 1961 as a planned industrial center, it has since grown into a thriving hub of commerce, educatio... CONTINUE here for a trip to Darkhan
- Dzuunharaa is a town located in the Selenge province of Mongolia. It has a population of approximately 18,000 people and is situated along the Selenge River. The town has a cold and dry climate with t... CONTINUE here for a trip to Dzuunharaa
- Dzüünharaa is a small town located in the northern part of Mongolia. It has a population of approximately 7,000 people and is situated in a valley surrounded by mountains. Dzüünharaa is known for its ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Dzüünharaa
- Erdenet is a city located in northern Mongolia, in the province of Orkhon. It is the third largest city in Mongolia, with a population of over 85,000. The city is well known for its large copper and m... CONTINUE here for a trip to Erdenet
- Hovd is a city located in the western part of Mongolia, near the border with China. It is the capital of the Hovd province and has a population of around 38,000 people. The city is known for its rich ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Hovd
- Inner Mongolia is an autonomous region located in northern China, bordering the country of Mongolia to the north. The region covers an area of about 1.18 million square kilometers and has a population... CONTINUE here for a trip to Inner Mongolia
- Jargalant is a small village located in the northern part of Mongolia, in the province of Khuvsgul. It is situated near the southern shore of Lake Khuvsgul, one of the largest and deepest lakes in the... CONTINUE here for a trip to Jargalant
- Karakorum is an ancient city located in central Mongolia, about 360 kilometers west of the capital city Ulaanbaatar. It was the capital city of the Mongol Empire in the 13th century and one of the mos... CONTINUE here for a trip to Karakorum
- Kharkhorin is a small town located in the central region of Mongolia. It is also known as Karakorum, which was once the ancient capital of the Mongol Empire under the leadership of Chinggis Khan. The ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kharkhorin
- Khovd is a province (aimag) located in the western part of Mongolia. It borders Russia to the north and China to the south. The capital city of Khovd province is also named Khovd and it is a cultural ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Khovd
- Khujirt is a small town located in the central province of Mongolia. It is situated about 225 kilometers to the southwest of Ulaanbaatar, the capital city of Mongolia. The town is located on the Khang... CONTINUE here for a trip to Khujirt
- Khövsgöl is a province located in the northern part of Mongolia. It is famous for its pristine and beautiful Lake Khövsgöl, which is one of the largest freshwater lakes in Asia. The lake is known for ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Khövsgöl
- Mandalgovi is the capital city of the Dundgovi Province in central Mongolia. It is situated in a basin surrounded by mountains and is the gateway to the Gobi Desert. The city has a population of over ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Mandalgovi
- Manzhouli is not in Mongolia, it is actually a city in Inner Mongolia, China. It is located in the northeast of China near the border with Russia. Manzhouli is known for its unique culture that blends... CONTINUE here for a trip to Manzhouli
- Mörön is a town located in northern Mongolia. It is the administrative center of the Khövsgöl Province and is situated near the southern tip of Lake Khövsgöl, one of the largest freshwater lakes in As... CONTINUE here for a trip to Mörön
- Sainshand is a city located in the eastern part of Mongolia, in the Dornogovi Province. With a population of approximately 25,000 people, it is one of the larger cities in the area. Sainshand is known... CONTINUE here for a trip to Sainshand
- Sharyngol is a small town located in the Khentii province of Mongolia, about 360 kilometers east of the capital city Ulaanbaatar. It is known for its stunning scenery, including nearby mountains, rive... CONTINUE here for a trip to Sharyngol
- Shinejinst is a remote village in Mongolia located in the Khangai Mountains. It is known for its beautiful natural scenery and wildlife, including rare species such as the Snow Leopard and the Argali ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Shinejinst
- Tariat is a small town located in the Arkhangai province of Mongolia. It is situated in a scenic valley and surrounded by beautiful mountains, making it a popular destination for nature enthusiasts an... CONTINUE here for a trip to Tariat
- Tsetserleg is a town located in the Arkhangai province of Mongolia. It is situated at an altitude of 1,610 meters above sea level and has a population of approximately 20,000 people. Tsetserleg is a h... CONTINUE here for a trip to Tsetserleg
- Tögrög, also spelled as Tögrögiin Els, is a small town located in the western region of Mongolia. It is part of the Uvs Province and situated near the Tögrög River and the border with Russia. The town... CONTINUE here for a trip to Tögrög
- Töv is a province located in the central part of Mongolia. Its capital city is Zuunmod, which is only about 30 kilometers away from the capital city of Ulaanbaatar. Töv is known for its beautiful natu... CONTINUE here for a trip to Töv
- Ulaan-Uul is a small town located in the northernmost province of Mongolia called Khuvsgul. It is situated at an altitude of about 1,100 meters above sea level and has a population of around 3,000 peo... CONTINUE here for a trip to Ulaan-Uul
- Ulaanbaatar is the capital city of Mongolia, located at an elevation of 1,350 meters above sea level in the valley of the Tuul River. With a population of over 1.4 million people, it is Mongolia's lar... CONTINUE here for a trip to Ulaanbaatar
- Ulaangom is a city located in the far western part of Mongolia, near the border with Russia. It is the administrative center of the Uvs Province and has a population of around 30,000 people. The city ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Ulaangom
- Uliastai is a town located in the western part of Mongolia. It is the capital city of the Zavkhan province and has a population of around 16,000 people. Uliastai is situated in a picturesque valley at... CONTINUE here for a trip to Uliastai
- Uvs is a province located in western Mongolia, bordered by Russia to the north and China to the south. It is named after the Uvs Lake, which is one of the largest lakes in Mongolia and a UNESCO World ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Uvs
- Zuunmod is a small town located in Töv Province, Mongolia. It is the capital of Töv Province and is situated about 48 kilometers west of Ulaanbaatar, the capital of Mongolia. The town has a population... CONTINUE here for a trip to Zuunmod
- Züünkharaa is a small town located in the Selenge Province of Mongolia, approximately 280 kilometers north of the capital city, Ulaanbaatar. The town is situated in the valley of the Delgermörön River... CONTINUE here for a trip to Züünkharaa
- Ölgii, also known as Ölgii City or Ölgii Town, is the capital of Bayan-Ölgii Province in western Mongolia. The city is located in the Altai Mountains, a region known for its stunning landscapes, uniqu... CONTINUE here for a trip to Ölgii


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