Things To Do
in Mongolia
Mongolia is a vast and rugged country located in East Asia, bordered by Russia to the north and China to the south. Known for its nomadic culture, stunning landscapes, and rich history, it offers a unique blend of traditional and modern experiences. The Gobi Desert, vast steppes, and the Altai Mountains are just a few of the natural wonders that attract adventure seekers and nature lovers alike.
With its rich tapestry of history, Mongolia is home to ancient sites, including the legendary capital of Genghis Khan's empire, Karakorum.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Gandan Monastery, the largest in Mongolia, to observe Buddhist rituals and admire its beautiful architecture.
Explore the National Museum of Mongolia to learn about the country's history, culture, and artifacts from the Mongolian Empire.
Enjoy dinner at a traditional Mongolian barbecue restaurant, followed by a cultural performance showcasing traditional music and dance.
Take an early flight or drive to the Gobi Desert, where you can visit the Flaming Cliffs, famous for their dinosaur fossils.
Experience the stunning landscapes of the Gobi by visiting the Khongoryn Els sand dunes, where you can hike or ride camels.
Spend the night in a ger camp under the stars, enjoying a traditional meal and storytelling around the campfire.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍽️Meal at a restaurant | $5-15 |
| 🏨Hostel dormitory bed | $10-20 |
| 🚕Taxi ride (within city) | $2-5 |
| 🚌Bus ticket | $0.30 |
| 🥛Bottle of water | $0.50 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural landscapes and diverse ecosystems.
- Rich cultural heritage with unique traditions.
- Opportunities for adventure and outdoor activities.
- Limited infrastructure in rural areas.
- Harsh weather conditions in winter.
- Language barrier as English is not widely spoken.
- "Сайн байна уу?" - How are you?
- "Талархал" - Thank you
- "Тийм" - Yes
- "Үгүй" - No
- "Миний нэр ___" - My name is ___
Places to Visit in Mongolia
Visit one of these nice places.
Capture breathtaking sunsets over the sand dunes and unique geological formations.
Known as the 'Blue Pearl of Mongolia', this pristine lake offers stunning landscapes and vibrant colors.
Famous for its beautiful rock formations, lush forests, and opportunities to photograph the nomadic lifestyle.
Food in Mongolia
Mongolia Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Steamed dumplings filled with minced meat, often enjoyed during festivals.
Must-Try!
Fried meat pies that are crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside.
Fermented mare's milk, a traditional drink with a slightly sour taste.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market in Ulaanbaatar where you can find local produce, clothing, and street food.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
When greeting someone, it is customary to bow slightly and say "Sain bainaa" (I am good).
Always use your right hand or both hands to give or receive gifts, as the left hand is considered impolite.
When visiting a ger, it is polite to remove your shoes and greet the hosts warmly.
Safety
Tipping in Mongolia
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated in restaurants, with 10% being a standard practice.
Cash is widely used, especially in rural areas; credit cards are accepted in larger cities but should be used cautiously.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Temperatures start to rise, and the landscape becomes green and vibrant, making it perfect for outdoor activities.
Warm temperatures and long days are ideal for exploring the vast steppes and deserts.
The foliage changes colors, providing stunning photography opportunities, but temperatures begin to drop.
Harsh cold with heavy snowfall in some areas; ideal for experiencing traditional winter festivals and activities.
Mongolia at Night
Hiking in Mongolia
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Features various hiking trails along the shores of the stunning white lake and volcanic landscapes.
Offers beautiful hiking routes around the pristine lake, with views of surrounding mountains and forests.
Airports
How to reach Mongolia by plane.
Located about 18 km from Ulaanbaatar, this airport serves as the main gateway for international and domestic flights, connecting Mongolia with various countries.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Mongolia, known for their rich nomadic culture and traditions.
A significant minority group in Western Mongolia, recognized for their unique traditions, particularly in eagle hunting.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A traditional sport deeply rooted in Mongolian culture, celebrated during the Naadam Festival.
An important cultural event, especially during festivals, showcasing the strength and endurance of both horses and riders.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Mongolian cuisine is meat-heavy, vegetarian dishes can be found in urban areas, with fresh vegetables and dairy products.
Healthcare
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Mongolia.