Mongolia travel guide
Mongolia Tourism | Mongolia Guide
You're Going to Love Mongolia
From wide open landscapes and deserts to fascinating traditions and wildlife, Mongolia is unlike anywhere else in the world. Prepare to feel the magic.
What to do in Mongolia
1. Visit the Gobi Desert
Take it all in with a hike or a ride on a camel. The city of Dalanzadgad is a good base for those who wish to explore over a few days.
2. Go Horseback Riding in Gorkhi-Terelj National Park
Horse riding has been a traditional method of transport in Mongolia for thousands of years and even today it is not uncommon. A horse trek in the national park is a special experience.
3. Visit Buddhist Monasteries
Buddhist monasteries tell a piece of history and are usually full of paintings and Buddha icons. The best preserved one is the Amarbayasgalat Khiid monastery.
4. Attend the Eagle Festival
Eagle hunting and training is an ancient tradition in the Bayan-Olgii area of Mongolia. Those who go there in October will have the chance to attend the festival, which takes place in Olgii city.
5. Relax and Meditate at Khovsgol Nuur Lake
Located in the very north of the country, this is a highlight in Mongolia. Enjoy plenty of fishing, kayaking, hiking and swimming.
When to visit Mongolia
The most pleasant time to visit Mongolia is in the summer from June to August, when it's warm and dry. September and October are a good option but offer unpredictable weather and possible rain.
How to Get to Mongolia
Entry requirements
Citizens of around 20 countries, including the USA, Germany and Japan, can enter Mongolia without a visa for periods of 14-90 days. Citizens of any other countries will need to apply for a visa prior to traveling.
Plane
Mongolia has one international airport located close to the capital Ulaanbaatar. Local airline MIAT Mongolian Airlines operates international flights to 13 destinations, including Beijing, Seoul, Hong Kong, Tokyo, Berlin and Moscow.
Train
The famous Trans-Mongolian train links Mongolia with both its neighbors. The train line goes through Moscow, Vladivostok, Ulaanbaatar and Beijing. Local trains are also available from Beijing to Ulaanbaatar, Jining and Hohhot.
Car
The only road entering Mongolia from China is via the town of Erenhot at the border, from which you can cross into Zamiin-Uud in Mongolia. Border crossings for vehicles from Russia are available from Tashanta in the west and Kayakhta in the central area.
Bus
Direct daily buses are available from Ulan-Ude in Russia to Ulaanbaatar, leaving at 7:30 am and with the trip taking about 15h. Buses are available from Beijing to Erenhot at the border. From there passengers will need to cross the border to Zamiin-Uud, from which trains are available to other destinations in Mongolia.
Popular airlines serving Mongolia
Where to stay in Mongolia
In rural areas, visitors can stay in Gers, traditional cylindrical tents made with a wooden base and covered with waterproof felt or animal skin. Ger camps are privately run and often offer a meal as part of the accommodation.
Where to stay in popular areas of Mongolia
Most booked hotels in Mongolia
How to Get Around Mongolia
Public Transportation
Buses are the main mode of local public transport within cities and usually run from 7:00 am to 10:00 pm daily. To pay for the bus, grab a U Money bus card and top it up with some money. A one-way local bus trip is usually around 500 MNT (0.20 USD).
Trains
Aside from the Trans-Mongolian railway that crosses the country, train lines are available from Darkhan to Erdenet, from Ulaanbaatar to Baganuur, and from Choibalsan to the Russian border. Choose between a "Hard Seat," "Hard Sleeper" and "Soft Seat" ticket, the latter being the most comfortable.
Bus
Direct long-distance bus travel is operated by bus companies, with a fixed schedule. Private vans are operated by private individuals, though it leaves only when full and makes stops along the way.
Car
It is possible to rent a car using your driver's license for stays up to 30 days. Otherwise, an International Driver's Permit is required. It is best to get a 4x4 as the roads in the rural areas can be of poor quality.
Plane
Mongolia has many airports and all local flights go to Ulaanbaatar. The local airlines are Hunnu Airlines and Aero Mongolia.
The Cost of Living in Mongolia
Eating out in Mongolia will cost around 6,000 MNT (2.25 USD) for an inexpensive meal, and around 30,000 MNT (11 USD) for a mid-range meal. Credit cards are accepted at all the major hotels, and even in some smaller cafes and grocery stores.