Mongolia Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, and tips for staying safe and healthy in Mongolia with this in-depth travel guide.


Introduction to Mongolia

Nestled between China and Russia, Mongolia is a landlocked country famous for its picturesque landscapes, ancient traditions, and nomadic lifestyle. Despite being one of the least populated countries in the world, Mongolia boasts of a rich history and culture, represented by its numerous museums, historical landmarks and ruins, and unique festivals.

List of Places to Visit in Mongolia

Mongolia has something for every type of traveler, from the cultural enthusiast to the nature lover, and the adventure seeker. Here is a list of must-visit places:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • National Museum of Mongolia
  • Gandan Monastery
  • Erdene Zuu Monastery
  • Choijin Lama Temple Museum
  • Karakorum - Ancient Capital of Mongolia
  • Tumen Ekh Museum of Folk Art

Natural Attractions of Mongolia: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Altai Tavan Bogd National Park
  • Lake Khuvsgul
  • Gobi Desert
  • Orkhon Valley
  • Terelj National Park
  • Flaming Cliffs

Hiking/Biking Routes of Mongolia

Hiking and biking enthusiasts can choose from a range of routes that offer scenic views and diverse terrain. Some of these routes include:

  • Khuvsgul Lake to Tsaatan reindeer herders
  • Trekking in the Altai Mountains
  • Hiking in the Gobi Desert
  • Biking from Ulaanbaatar to Terelj National Park
  • Gorkhi-Terelj National Park trek

Best Things to Do in Mongolia: Activities and Tours

  • Horse riding in Mongolian countryside
  • Experience nomadic life
  • Witness Naadam Festival
  • Attend Kazakh Eagle Festival
  • Camel Riding in the Gobi Desert

Week-Long Itinerary for Mongolia

Day 1: Arrive in Ulaanbaatar and explore the city’s cultural landmarks, including the National Museum and Gandan Monastery. Day 2-3: Hike in Terelj National Park and visit the Gorkhi-Terelj National Park trek. Day 4: Visit the ancient ruins of Karakorum and Erdene Zuu Monastery. Day 5: Tour the Gobi Desert and witness the Flaming Cliffs. Day 6: Go horseback riding and experience Mongolia’s nomadic lifestyle. Day 7: Attend the Naadam Festival or explore the city’s shopping district for souvenirs.

Food and Drink Scene of Mongolia

Must-Try Dishes

  • Buuz: Mongolian dumplings
  • Khuushuur: Fried meat turnovers
  • Bansh: Steamed meat dumplings
  • Khorkhog: Boiled lamb or mutton
  • Airag: Fermented yogurt drink

Local Beverages

  • Sukte: Mongolian tea with milk and salt
  • Arkhi: Distilled fermented mare’s milk
  • Beers: Pale Ale, IPA or Stout

Where to Stay in Mongolia: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Mongolia offers a range of accommodation options to suit every budget, including hotels, hostels, and ger camps. Here are some popular options:

  • Shangri-La Hotel Ulaanbaatar
  • Kempinski Hotel Khan Palace
  • Zaya Hostel
  • UB Guesthouse
  • Mongolian Ger Camps

What to Buy in Mongolia: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Traditional clothing such as deels and hats
  • Cashmere scarves and sweaters
  • Handmade felt products
  • Mongolian jewelry and ornaments
  • Paintings and art pieces

Local Culture and Customs of Mongolia

Mongolian culture is predominantly influenced by nomadic lifestyles and Buddhism. Visitors are encouraged to respect the following customs:

  • Remove shoes when entering homes or places of worship
  • Do not disturb religious artifacts and monuments
  • Do not show the soles of feet
  • Eating with your hands is considered disrespectful
  • Dress modestly when entering religious sites or monasteries

Best Time to Visit Mongolia

The best time to visit Mongolia is between May and September when the weather is warm and dry.

Do’s and Don’ts of Mongolia

Do:

  • Learn basic Mongolian words and phrases
  • Exchange currency only at authorized exchange centers
  • Try to support local businesses and buy locally made souvenirs
  • Wear comfortable and sturdy shoes when traveling around Mongolia

Don’t:

  • Do not point with fingers or feet
  • Do not engage in political discussions
  • Do not enter yurts or private homes without permission
  • Do not tip in restaurants or hotels

Safety and Health

Safety in Mongolia

Mongolia is relatively a safe country to visit. However, visitors are encouraged to take the following precautions:

  • Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit areas
  • Keep valuables such as passport, money, and credit card in a secure place
  • Use registered taxis
  • Respect the customs and beliefs of the local people

Health in Mongolia

Visitors need to take precautions against altitude sickness, and vaccination against hepatitis A and B, typhoid, and rabies is advised before travel. Travelers should also follow general hygiene practices such as drinking bottled water and washing hands regularly.

Getting to Mongolia: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Mongolia

  • Chinggis Khaan International Airport
  • Irkutsk International Airport
  • Beijing Capital International Airport
  • Seoul-Incheon International Airport

Bus Stations Near Mongolia

  • Ulaanbaatar Central Bus Station
  • Sukhbaatar Bus Station

Other Options

  • Trans-Siberian Railway, connecting Moscow to Beijing
  • Car rentals

How to Get Around in Mongolia

Visitors can get around Mongolia by taxi, bus, or rental cars. However, the most convenient mode of transportation is through tour companies.

Where to Go Next from Mongolia: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Russia: Siberia, Lake Baikal, and Irkutsk
  • China: Beijing, Gobi Desert, and Great Wall of China
  • Kazakhstan: Altai Mountains

Conclusion

With its spectacular landscapes, distinct culture, and adventurous activities, Mongolia is an ideal destination for visitors looking for a unique cultural experience. Whether you’re riding horses on the Mongolian steppe, exploring ancient temples, or hiking through national parks, Mongolia will leave lasting memories.

Statue of Chinggis Khan outside the capital Statue of Chinggis Khan outside the capital Naadam festival celebrations. Naadam festival celebrations. Steppe in Hovsgol — if you want to experience desolate landscapes, Mongolia has plenty of them Steppe in Hovsgol — if you want to experience desolate landscapes, Mongolia has plenty of them Visa policy of Mongolia Visa policy of Mongolia MIAT plane in Ulaanbaatar MIAT plane in Ulaanbaatar Trans-Mongolian Train Trans-Mongolian Train Changing wheels at the Chinese Border Changing wheels at the Chinese Border An AeroMongolia plane An AeroMongolia plane Tourist bus in the Gorkhi-Terelj National Park Tourist bus in the Gorkhi-Terelj National Park River ferry in Hovsgol River ferry in Hovsgol Monk at the Gandan Monastery Monk at the Gandan Monastery Buddha at Erdene Zuu Buddha at Erdene Zuu Mongolian honor guard Mongolian honor guard The Mongolian trifecta: ''khuushuur'' fried dumplings on the left, ''buuz'' steamed dumplings on the right, and pieces of boiled mutton on top The Mongolian trifecta: ''khuushuur'' fried dumplings on the left, ''buuz'' steamed dumplings on the right, and pieces of boiled mutton on top Preparing a marmot as ''boodog'' Preparing a marmot as ''boodog'' A milk pail in Mongolia A milk pail in Mongolia Sunset in Ulaanbaatar Sunset in Ulaanbaatar Air pollution in the capital city Air pollution in the capital city Yurt, or ger Yurt, or ger


    Central Mongolia
    Eastern Mongolia
    Gobi
    Northern Mongolia
    Western Mongolia