Things To Do
in Mongolia
Mongolia is a landlocked country in East Asia, bordered by Russia to the north and China to the south, known for its vast, rugged expanses and nomadic culture. Its capital, Ulaanbaatar, is the cultural, economic, and political heart of the country, housing a significant portion of Mongolia's population.
Mongolia's landscape is diverse, featuring the Gobi Desert to the south and cold, mountainous regions to the north and west, making it a destination for adventurers and those interested in its rich history, including the era of the Mongol Empire under Genghis Khan.
- "Sain baina uu" - Hello
- "Bayarlalaa" - Thank you
- "Sain" - Good
- "Yamar site ve?" - How are you?
- "Uulzakh tsag ni hezee we?" - When shall we meet?
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $10 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $3 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.20 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $15 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $15 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your adventure with a drive to the Gobi Desert. Enjoy the stunning landscapes as you pass by sand dunes and rocky formations.
Explore the Khongoryn Els sand dunes, known for their breathtaking beauty. Take a camel ride to experience the desert like a local.
Watch the sunset over the dunes, painting the sky in beautiful hues. Camp under the stars for a night of peace and quiet.
Head to Terelj National Park, famous for its picturesque scenery. Hike through the park and capture photos of the unique rock formations.
Visit the Aryabal Meditation Temple and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere. Sample traditional Mongolian dishes in a local ger.
Relax by the river as the sun sets, casting a golden glow. Share stories around a campfire with fellow travelers.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and history
- Stunning natural landscapes, including mountains, steppe, and deserts
- Low population density and vast open spaces
- Growing tourism industry and opportunities for adventure travel
- Unique nomadic lifestyle and traditions
- Harsh climate with extreme temperatures
- Limited infrastructure in rural areas
- Economic dependence on mining and natural resources
- Access to healthcare and education can be limited in remote areas
- Political instability and corruption concerns
Best Activities in Mongolia
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the vast Mongolian steppes on horseback and experience the traditional nomadic way of life.
Embark on a camel trek across the Gobi Desert and enjoy its unique landscapes and wilderness.
Discover Mongolia's mountains, national parks, and remote regions by trekking and hiking.
Enjoy fishing in Mongolia's rivers and lakes, known for their pristine and untouched beauty.
Tours
Uncover the best of Mongolia with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Mongolia
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers stunning views of rugged landscapes, granite rock formations, and lush valleys, perfect for photography.
Known for its population of wild horses (Przewalski's horses) and beautiful open steppes, providing excellent photo opportunities.
Features vast desert scenery, sand dunes, and unique geological formations, ideal for capturing the beauty of Mongolia's arid landscapes.
Showcases diverse natural landscapes including grassy steppes, mountains, and the Orkhon River, creating picturesque views for photography enthusiasts.
Food in Mongolia
Mongolia Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Buuz are traditional Mongolian steamed dumplings filled with minced meat, onions, and spices. They are commonly enjoyed during Tsagaan Sar (Lunar New Year) festivities and can be found in many local restaurants and at food stalls in Ulaanbaatar.
Must-Try!
Khorkhog is a flavorful dish made with mutton, vegetables, and hot stones, cooked in a specialized cooking container. It's a must-try for those seeking an authentic Mongolian dining experience and is often served at traditional nomadic camps or specialty restaurants.
Tsuiwan, or Mongolian noodle soup, is a popular comfort food made with hand-pulled noodles, meat, and assorted vegetables. You can find variations of this dish in local cafes and small eateries across the country.
Aaruul is a traditional Mongolian dried curd snack made from fermented dairy products, such as cheese or yogurt. It's widely available in markets, grocery stores, and as a common accompaniment during nomadic travel.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Mongolia better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Naran Tuul Market, also known as the Black Market, is a bustling hub in Ulaanbaatar where visitors can explore a wide range of traditional Mongolian foods, snacks, and beverages. It's a great place to sample street food, pick up local ingredients, and immerse in the lively market atmosphere.
Gandan Khiid Night Market offers a fantastic array of street food stalls and vendors, showcasing both traditional Mongolian dishes and international flavors. This vibrant market is an excellent spot to taste local delicacies and experience the diverse street food culture in Mongolia.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Mongolia, it is customary to greet people with a handshake or a slight bow. It is important to address people using their title and last name, followed by the word 'baatar' for men and 'egch' for women.
Showing respect for elders is an important cultural norm in Mongolia. It is customary to address older individuals with deference and to seek their guidance and advice.
Hospitality is highly valued in Mongolian culture. When invited to someone's home, it is respectful to bring a small gift and to express gratitude for the hospitality shown.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Mongolia with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Mongolia
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not a common practice in Mongolia, and it is not expected in most situations. However, in some upscale restaurants and hotels, a service charge may be included in the bill.
In Mongolia, cash is the most commonly used form of payment, especially in rural areas. Credit and debit cards are accepted in some businesses in major cities but may not be widely accepted in more remote areas. It's always advisable to carry cash when traveling in Mongolia.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Mongolia.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Mongolia due to pleasant weather, blooming wildflowers, and baby animals. Nomadic festivals and horse racing events also take place during this time.
Warm temperatures and ideal for trekking, camping, and exploring the Gobi Desert. Naadam Festival, featuring traditional Mongolian sports, takes place in July.
Golden landscapes and cool weather, perfect for hiking and birdwatching. The eagle hunting festival is a highlight during this time.
Extreme cold with temperatures dropping below freezing. Winter festivals, ice skating, and the chance to experience the nomadic way of life during the harsh winter months.
Mongolia at Night
Hiking in Mongolia
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful national park located just outside Ulaanbaatar, featuring stunning rock formations, scenic landscapes, and a variety of hiking trails suitable for all levels.
Known for its population of Przewalski's horse, this national park offers diverse hiking opportunities through its rolling hills and vast steppe.
This sacred mountain, close to Ulaanbaatar, provides various hiking trails that offer panoramic views of the city and the surrounding landscape.
Located in the western part of Mongolia, this park is famous for its dramatic mountain scenery, glacial lakes, and rich wildlife, making it a perfect hiking destination.
A picturesque hiking location surrounded by mountains and forests, Khovsgol Lake offers numerous trails with stunning views of the pristine waters and nature.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Mongolia through these rare and unique activities.
Airports
How to reach Mongolia by plane.
The main international airport serving Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia.
Located in Irkutsk, Russia, it is one of the nearest major international airports to Mongolia.
An international airport located in Khabarovsk, Russia, serving various international destinations.
Located in Ulaan-Ude, Russia; it serves as a regional international airport.
One of the largest international airports in Asia, located in Beijing, China.
An international airport in Almaty, Kazakhstan, which connects to various global destinations.
Located in Narita, Japan, this major gateway serves international flights to and from Japan.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest ethnic group in Mongolia, making up approximately 95% of the population. They primarily speak Mongolian and are the descendants of nomadic tribes.
The second largest ethnic group, primarily residing in the western provinces of Mongolia. They make up about 4% of the population and speak the Kazakh language.
A minority group in Mongolia, primarily located in urban areas. They contribute to the cultural and economic landscape of the country.
An ethnic group in Mongolia, mostly found in the northern regions. They are closely related to Siberian indigenous cultures.
A smaller ethnic group in Mongolia, part of the larger Mongolic family, mostly found in specific regions.
Includes various smaller groups such as the Buryats, Urianhais, and other indigenous peoples, collectively representing a small fraction of the population.
The Soul of Mongolia
Discover the essence of Mongolia through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Mongolian wrestling, known as 'Bökh', is a traditional sport with deep cultural significance and is one of the main events during the annual Naadam Festival.
Horse racing is a prominent sport in Mongolia, particularly celebrated during the Naadam Festival, where thousands of horses compete, showcasing the country's rich equestrian culture.
Archery is an important traditional sport in Mongolia, practiced by both men and women. It is featured prominently during the Naadam Festival, where competitors use traditional bows.
Football is one of the most popular modern sports in Mongolia, with a growing number of clubs and leagues across the country, and is played by many at both amateur and semi-professional levels.
Basketball has gained immense popularity in Mongolia, especially among the youth, with several local leagues and a national team competing in international events.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Mongolian cuisine heavily features meat and dairy, many restaurants and cafes in urban areas like Ulaanbaatar now offer vegetarian and vegan options to cater to diverse dietary preferences. Be sure to inquire about meat-free dishes or customized plant-based meals when dining out.
Gluten-free dining options may be more limited in Mongolia, but with increased awareness of dietary restrictions, some eateries are accommodating gluten-free requests. It's advisable to communicate your dietary needs clearly and seek recommendations from local residents or restaurant staff for suitable dining establishments.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Mongolia with these cultural adventures.
Healthcare
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Mongolia.