Things To Do
in Mongolia
Mongolia is a land of endless steppes, towering deserts, and a sky that seems to stretch forever. Its culture blends nomadic traditions with modern vitality, from bustling capital streets to remote ger camps. The country offers dramatic landscapes, extreme weather, and a warm hospitality that invites immersion in daily life.
Travel here feels like stepping into a spacious, ancient story told in wind, horsehair tents, and the sound of hoofbeats on the steppe.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Upon arriving in Ulaanbaatar, settle into your hotel and take time to recover from your journey. Enjoy a traditional Mongolian breakfast at a local café, with options like buuz (dumplings) and a glass of airag (fermented mare's milk). Stroll around the city and visit Sukhbaatar Square to familiarize yourself with the local culture.
Explore the National Museum of Mongolia to gain insight into the country's rich history, from the nomadic lifestyle to the era of Genghis Khan. Then head to the Gandantegchinlen Monastery, a vibrant place offering the chance to observe monks chanting. Stop for lunch at a nearby restaurant, trying classic Mongolian dishes.
In the evening, enjoy a cultural show featuring traditional Mongolian music and dance performances. Savor dinner at a local restaurant that specializes in grilled meats and dairy delights. Spend the night leisurely, perhaps visiting a local bar or café for a nightcap.
Set out early for a trip to Terelj National Park, known for its stunning landscapes and unique rock formations. After breakfast, hike to the famous Turtle Rock and marvel at the quirky shapes of nature. Participate in an engaging horseback riding session, a quintessential Mongolian experience.
Visit a traditional nomadic family to understand their lifestyle and partake in activities like herding sheep or making dairy products. Enjoy a homemade lunch with the family, savoring the flavors of authentic Mongolian food. Spend the afternoon exploring the picturesque surroundings, taking photographs of the lush fields and rugged terrain.
As the sun sets, sit around a campfire, enjoying a small BBQ and sharing stories with your companions. Experience the peacefulness of the night sky far from city lights, where stargazing becomes a breathtaking experience. Sleep in a ger (yurt) under the stars, immersing yourself in the true Mongolian experience.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-10 |
| 🍝Meal for two in mid-range restaurant | $15-40 |
| 🏨Hotel (mid-range) per night | $25-60 |
| 🚕Taxi ride (1-2 miles) | $3-8 |
| 🛒Grocery basket (milk, bread, eggs) per week | $20-50 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning steppe landscapes and vast skies
- Rich nomadic culture and history
- Relatively affordable travel in many areas
- Warm hospitality and unique dairy-based beverages
- Harsh winters and extremes of temperature
- Sparse infrastructure outside major cities
- Long travel times between remote destinations
- Limited English in rural areas
- "Сайн байна уу?" - Hello
- "Баярлалаа" - Thank you
- "Тийм" - Yes
- "Үгүй" - No
- "Уучлаарай" - Sorry / Excuse me
- "Англиар ярьдаг вэ?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Mongolia
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic Buddhist monastery in Ulaanbaatar with a golden stupa and prayer wheels; ideal for interior and exterior shots during morning rituals.
Central city square with surrounding government and cultural buildings; great for urban architecture and street photography.
Massive statue of Genghis Khan on horseback set against expansive steppe views; dramatic for sunrise and sunset photography.
Distinctive rock formations, valleys, and ger camps provide iconic landscape photography opportunities.
Volcanic crater and rugged lava fields offering otherworldly landscapes and wide horizons.
Food in Mongolia
Mongolia Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Steamed dumplings filled with minced meat (usually mutton or beef) and onions; best when freshly made.
Must-Try!
Deep-fried meat pies with a crisp crust, often enjoyed as street food or in homes.
Fried dough bites, popular as a snack or dessert, often served with tea.
Fermented mare’s milk, traditionally served chilled at ger camps and festivals.
Stir-fried noodles with meat and vegetables, a comforting staple in households.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A sprawling market offering fresh meat, dairy, produce, snacks, and street food stalls—great for sampling khuushuur and boortsog.
Casual spots around UB serving dumplings, fried dough treats, and dairy-based drinks; ideal for a quick bite.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A simple handshake is common in urban settings; greet elders with respect and take a seat after offered; avoid pointing at people or religious icons with a single finger.
When visiting monasteries or religious sites, dress modestly and remove hats; take off shoes where required and avoid loud behavior near sacred areas.
Safety
Tipping in Mongolia
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated in restaurants and for tour guides; 5-10% is common when service is good; small tips for drivers or guides are common in rural areas.
Cash (MNT) is widely accepted; many urban establishments also take Visa/MasterCard; rural areas often prefer cash or US dollars.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Muddy roads as snowmelt gives way to green valleys; temperatures range from cold to mild; carry layers and waterproof gear.
Warm days with cool nights; ideal for hiking and nomad visits; brief afternoon thunderstorms are possible.
Clear skies and crisp air; beautiful fall colors; pack layered clothing for cool evenings.
Very cold and dry with frequent wind; landscapes are stunning in snow but travel can be challenging; advanced gear and preparation are essential.
Mongolia at Night
Hiking in Mongolia
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Accessible trails near Ulaanbaatar with city views and forested slopes.
Varied routes through valleys, boulder fields, and scenic rock formations.
Forested paths and opportunities to see native wildlife such as Przewalski’s horses.
Airports
How to reach Mongolia by plane.
Main international gateway near Ulaanbaatar, with connections to Asia, Europe, and beyond.
Secondary airport near UB previously used for some international flights; local flights to regional destinations depart from here.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority; many live in rural ger camps maintaining traditional nomadic lifestyles.
A significant minority in western Mongolia, often concentrated in Bayan-Ölgii.
Russian-speaking and other groups primarily in Ulaanbaatar and tourist centers.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A core sport at Naadam festivals; traditional wrestling with grand regional significance.
A hallmark of Naadam and nomadic culture; long-distance horse racing across steppe routes.
Competitions using flat bows; an integral Naadam event alongside wrestling and horse racing.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Mongolian cuisine centers on meat, but vegetarian options exist in Ulaanbaatar. Look for mushroom, vegetable, and dairy-based dishes, and ask for vegetarian dumplings or salads; in rural areas, options may be limited.
Healthcare
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Mongolia.