MONGOLIA
TRAVEL GUIDE
How To Travel To Stunning Mongolia
Discover Mongolia’s rugged beauty and rich nomadic heritage in our comprehensive travel guide. Uncover the mysteries of the Gobi Desert, witness the grandeur of ancient monasteries, and experience the hospitality of nomadic tribes. From the vibrant capital of Ulaanbaatar to the vast steppes where traditional customs thrive, Mongolia offers a unique adventure. Our guide provides insights into planning your journey, navigating cultural nuances, and embracing the rugged charm of one of the world’s last true wildernesses.
The Best Places To Visit In Mongolia
Need To Know: How To Travel To Mongolia
Travel to Mongolia for its breathtaking landscapes, from the vast Gobi Desert to stunning mountain ranges. Experience rich culture, ancient traditions, and unique wildlife. Explore historical sites like the ruins of Khara-Khorum, ride Bactrian camels, and immerse yourself in the nomadic lifestyle for an unforgettable adventure.
Whether you need a visa to visit Mongolia depends on your nationality. Citizens from many countries, including the US and most EU nations, can stay for up to 30 days without a visa. However, it’s essential to check the latest requirements from the Mongolian embassy or consulate before traveling.
The currency of Mongolia is the Mongolian Tugrik (MNT). It is abbreviated as ₮ and is issued by the Bank of Mongolia. The Tugrik is further divided into 100 mongos. Banknotes and coins in circulation come in various denominations, with notes being more commonly used than coins.
Mongolia is relatively affordable to visit, offering budget-friendly accommodation, food, and transportation. Local guesthouses, simple meals, and public transport are inexpensive, while activities like camel rides and desert tours can vary in price. However, some remote destinations may require higher costs for travel and specialized tours.
Mongolia is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates and welcoming locals. However, travelers should exercise caution in remote areas, respect local customs, and be prepared for harsh weather conditions. It’s also recommended to have proper travel insurance and follow guidelines when exploring the Gobi Desert.
In Mongolia, it’s generally not recommended to drink tap water, especially in rural areas. Stick to bottled water or purified water for safety. In Ulaanbaatar, some hotels may offer filtered water, but always check with locals or your accommodation to ensure it’s safe for consumption.
Mongolian cuisine is hearty and simple, reflecting the nomadic lifestyle. Staple foods include mutton, beef, and camel meat, often prepared in stews or soups. Dairy products like airag (fermented mare’s milk) and yogurt are common. Mongolian dumplings, called buuz, are a popular snack, often served with rice and vegetables.
Enchanting Mongolia Travel Guide: Your Gateway to Unforgettable Adventures
Welcome to the Enchanting Mongolia Travel Guide, your essential companion for exploring the land of vast steppes, nomadic traditions, and rugged beauty. Mongolia captivates with its ancient history, vibrant culture, and diverse landscapes, from Ulaanbaatar’s urban buzz to the endless Gobi Desert. This guide covers eight top destinations, cultural experiences, and practical tips to ensure a seamless and unforgettable journey. Whether you’re riding horses in the steppes or discovering Buddhist monasteries, let this guide inspire your adventure in Mongolia.
How to Get to Mongolia
Travel Options
Tip: Fly into Chinggis Khaan International Airport (UBN) in Ulaanbaatar ($600–1200 from North America, $200–500 from Europe). Regional airports like Dalanzadgad serve domestic routes.
Why: Ulaanbaatar is the primary gateway, with connections to major Asian and European cities.
How: Compare flights on Skyscanner ($0). Take trains from Beijing ($50–100) or Moscow ($150–300). Within Mongolia, use buses ($5–15), shared jeeps ($10–25), or domestic flights ($50–150). Taxis in Ulaanbaatar cost $2–10/ride.
Best Time to Visit Mongolia
Optimal Seasons
Tip: Visit in summer (June–August) for mild weather (15–25°C) and festivals like Naadam. Spring (April–May) and autumn (September–October) are cooler (0–15°C). Winter (November–March) is harsh (-20–30°C) but ideal for ice festivals ($20–50).
Why: Summer offers pleasant weather and cultural events, while winter suits unique cold-weather experiences.
How: Book gers or hotels early for Naadam ($50–200/night). Pack layers for unpredictable weather. Check forecasts via Weather Underground ($0).
Top Destinations in Mongolia
Ulaanbaatar
Tip: Explore Gandan Monastery ($2–5) and Sukhbaatar Square ($0). Visit the National Museum of Mongolia ($5–8).
Why: The vibrant capital blends modern life with deep cultural and historical roots.
How: Walk or take taxis ($2–5). Book guided tours via Viator ($15–30). Dress respectfully for monasteries. Combine with a visit to Zaisan Memorial.
Gobi Desert
Tip: Visit Yol Valley ($3–5) and Flaming Cliffs ($0–2). Join camel treks ($20–40/day).
Why: A vast desert with dramatic landscapes, dinosaur fossils, and nomadic camps.
How: Fly to Dalanzadgad ($50–100) or join tours from Ulaanbaatar ($100–200). Wear sturdy shoes. Book via GetYourGuide ($50–150).
Khuvsgul Lake
Tip: Enjoy horseback riding ($10–20/day) and visit Tsaatan reindeer herders ($10–20). Stay in ger camps ($20–50/night).
Why: Known as Mongolia’s “Blue Pearl” for its pristine waters and stunning scenery.
How: Fly to Murun ($50–100) or drive from Ulaanbaatar ($30–50, 10 hours). Book tours via Klook ($30–60). Pack warm clothing.
Karakorum
Tip: Visit Erdene Zuu Monastery ($3–5) and the Karakorum Museum ($2–4).
Why: The ancient capital of the Mongol Empire with historic Buddhist sites.
How: Drive from Ulaanbaatar ($20–30, 5 hours) or join tours ($30–50). Stay in gers ($20–60/night). Book via Viator ($20–40).
Orkhon Valley
Tip: See Orkhon Waterfall ($0–2) and explore nomadic camps ($0). Try horse trekking ($15–25/day).
Why: A UNESCO site with lush valleys, ancient ruins, and nomadic culture.
How: Drive from Ulaanbaatar ($25–40, 6 hours). Stay in ger camps ($20–50/night). Book tours via GetYourGuide ($30–60).
Terelj National Park
Tip: Visit Turtle Rock ($0) and Aryabal Meditation Temple ($0–2). Enjoy hiking or horseback riding ($10–20).
Why: Stunning landscapes with rock formations and nomadic experiences near Ulaanbaatar.
How: Drive from Ulaanbaatar ($10–20, 1.5 hours). Stay in ger camps ($30–70/night). Book tours via Klook ($15–40).
Altai Tavan Bogd
Tip: Explore glaciers and petroglyphs ($5–10). Visit Kazakh eagle hunters ($0–5).
Why: Remote mountains with dramatic peaks and unique cultural encounters.
How: Fly to Ulgii ($80–150) or drive from Ulaanbaatar ($100–200). Stay in gers ($20–50/night). Book tours via Viator ($50–100).
Khustai National Park
Tip: Spot Przewalski’s wild horses ($3–5 entry). Take guided wildlife tours ($10–20).
Why: A conservation success story with rare wildlife and rolling steppes.
How: Drive from Ulaanbaatar ($15–25, 2 hours). Stay in ger camps ($20–50/night). Book via GetYourGuide ($20–40).
Cultural Experiences and Tips
Mongolian Cuisine
Tip: Try buuz (dumplings, $5–10) or khorkhog (stone-cooked mutton, $8–15) at local eateries. Sample airag (fermented mare’s milk, $1–3).
Why: A hearty cuisine reflecting Mongolia’s nomadic lifestyle and harsh climate.
How: Dine at Ulaanbaatar’s Modern Nomads or ger camps. Book cooking classes via Klook ($20–50). Pair with Mongolian tea ($1–2).
Cultural Festivals and Crafts
Tip: Attend Naadam Festival (July, $0–20) for wrestling, archery, and horse racing. Visit felt workshops ($5–10).
Why: Festivals and crafts highlight Mongolia’s nomadic heritage and craftsmanship.
How: Check schedules on Mongolia.travel ($0). Book festival tours via Viator ($20–50). Bargain respectfully at markets.
Music and Dance
Tip: Enjoy throat singing (khoomei) performances in Ulaanbaatar ($10–20) or traditional dance shows ($5–15).
Why: Throat singing, a UNESCO heritage, showcases Mongolia’s unique musical tradition.
How: Book tickets via GetYourGuide ($10–25). Visit Tumen Ekh Ensemble in Ulaanbaatar. Dress warmly for outdoor shows.
Practical Tips for Traveling in Mongolia
Visa and Documentation
Tip: Ensure your passport is valid for 6 months. Apply for a tourist visa ($30–50) for stays up to 30 days; some nationalities are visa-free.
Why: Simplifies entry and ensures compliance with Mongolia’s regulations.
How: Use the Mongolian Embassy website ($0). Carry digital copies on Google Drive ($0). Have USD cash for visa fees.
Currency and Payments
Tip: Use Mongolian Tugrik (MNT, $10–30/day). Cards are accepted in Ulaanbaatar, but cash is essential for rural areas.
Why: Nomadic camps and small vendors often require cash outside cities.
How: Use ATMs in Ulaanbaatar ($0–2 fee). Exchange at banks ($0). Use Revolut ($0 fees) for better rates.
Language and Communication
Tip: Learn phrases like “bayarlalaa” (thank you) or “sain baina uu” (hello). English is limited outside Ulaanbaatar.
Why: Basic Mongolian or Russian enhances interactions and shows respect.
How: Use Google Translate ($0) for offline use. Purchase a local SIM card ($5–10) for data.
Safety and Dangers in Mongolia
Tip: Avoid unmarked trails in remote areas due to navigation risks. Guard against pickpockets in Ulaanbaatar’s markets.
Why: Petty theft occurs in urban areas, and remote regions can be challenging without guides.
How: Use a money belt ($10–20). Check travel advisories (US State Department, $0). Drink bottled water ($0.50–2).
More Safety Tips for AsiaAccommodation Options
Tip: Choose hotels in Ulaanbaatar ($50–150/night), ger camps in rural areas ($20–70/night), or homestays ($15–40/night).
Why: Diverse options suit budgets, from urban comfort to authentic nomadic stays.
How: Book via Booking.com or Airbnb ($0). Opt for central Ulaanbaatar or ger camps. Check reviews for authenticity.
Transportation
Tip: Use Ulaanbaatar’s buses ($0.20/ride), taxis ($2–10), or shared jeeps ($10–25). Rent 4x4 vehicles for rural areas ($50–100/day).
Why: Public transport is affordable in cities, while 4x4s offer flexibility in rugged terrains.
How: Use local taxi apps ($2–5/ride). Book buses or jeeps via guesthouses ($0). Carry small cash for fares.
Why This Mongolia Travel Guide is Essential
Your Gateway to Unforgettable Adventures
Tip: Use this guide to explore Mongolia’s nomadic heritage, stay safe, and immerse in local traditions.
Why: Mongolia’s unique blend of vast landscapes, culture, and hospitality requires informed planning.
How: Follow tips for Ulaanbaatar, Gobi Desert, and more. Enjoy buuz ($5–10) and throat singing performances ($10–20). Use local taxis ($0) for seamless travel.
