Things To Do
in Erdenet

Erdenet is the second-largest city in Mongolia, known for its rich history and mining industry. Situated in the Orkhon Valley, it serves as a vital hub for trade and transportation in the northern regions of the country. The city is surrounded by stunning natural landscapes, including mountains and rivers, making it a picturesque destination.

Erdenet offers a unique blend of urban life and traditional Mongolian culture, attracting visitors with its vibrant community and outdoor activities.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Erdenet
morning
:

Start your day at the Erdenet Mining Corporation Museum to learn about the city's mining heritage. Take a stroll around the nearby parks.

afternoon
:

Visit the local market, where you can buy traditional Mongolian crafts and sample local snacks. Afterward, head to the Erdenet Central Park for a leisurely walk.

evening
:

Enjoy a traditional Mongolian dinner at a local restaurant, followed by a visit to a nearby cultural performance if available.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Adventure
morning
:

Take a short trip to the nearby Khuiten River for a morning of fishing or kayaking. Enjoy the serene surroundings.

afternoon
:

Have a picnic lunch by the river, then hike one of the local trails nearby, such as the trail to the scenic Khangai Mountains.

evening
:

Return to the city for dinner at a popular local eatery, followed by a visit to a bar or café for drinks and socializing with locals.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at a restaurant$5-10
🛒Groceries for a week$25-50
🏨Hotel per night$30-60
🚕Taxi ride within the city$2-5
🎟️Entrance fee to attractions$1-3

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural experiences and traditions
  • Access to beautiful natural landscapes and outdoor activities
  • Friendly and welcoming locals
  • Limited options for international cuisine
  • Language barrier may be challenging for some travelers
  • Harsh winters can limit outdoor activities
  • "Сайн байна уу" - Hello
  • "Баярлалаа" - Thank you
  • "Танд баярлалаа" - You're welcome
  • "Тийм ээ" - Yes
  • "Үгүй" - No

Places to Visit in Erdenet

Visit one of these nice places.

Erdenet Central Park

A beautiful park with lush greenery and a serene lake, perfect for capturing the essence of the city.

Khangai Mountains

Stunning mountain landscapes provide breathtaking backdrops for outdoor photography enthusiasts.

Khuiten River

The river offers picturesque views and is ideal for nature photography, especially at sunrise or sunset.

Culinary Guide

Food in Erdenet

Erdenet boasts a rich culinary scene that reflects both Mongolian traditions and local flavors, making it a must-visit for food enthusiasts.

Erdenet Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Buuz

Steamed dumplings filled with meat, often served with a dipping sauce.

Must-Try!

Khuushuur

Fried meat pastries that are crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside.

Boodog

Whole goat or sheep cooked with hot stones inside its skin, offering a unique flavor.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Erdenet Central Market

A bustling market where you can find fresh produce, meats, and local snacks, perfect for trying street food.

Climate Guide

Weather

Erdenet experiences a continental climate with distinct seasons. Summers (June to August) are warm, with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F), while winters (December to February) are extremely cold, often dropping below -20°C (-4°F). Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are transitional periods with mild temperatures, making them ideal for travel. Rainfall is more frequent in summer, while winter brings dry, snowy conditions.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respecting Elders

Always show respect to elders by greeting them first and offering your seat if necessary.

Hospitality

If invited to a local home, it's customary to bring a small gift as a gesture of appreciation.

Removing Shoes

When entering a home or certain traditional establishments, it's common to remove your shoes.

Safety Guide

Safety

Erdenet is generally a safe city for travelers, with a low crime rate. However, standard safety precautions should be taken, such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night and keeping personal belongings secure. In case of emergencies, it's advisable to have local emergency numbers handy. Travelers should also be cautious when participating in outdoor activities, ensuring they follow safety guidelines.

Tipping in Erdenet

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

Tipping is appreciated, typically around 10% in restaurants, but it's not mandatory.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely used, though some establishments accept credit cards. It's advisable to carry local currency.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Temperatures start to warm up, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities and enjoying the blooming landscapes.

Summer

Summer can be warm and sunny, perfect for hiking and outdoor festivals, but be prepared for occasional rain.

Autumn

The fall brings cooler temperatures and stunning foliage, making it a scenic time for photography and hikes.

Winter

Winter is very cold with heavy snowfall, offering opportunities for winter sports but requiring warm clothing for outdoor activities.

Nightlife Guide

Erdenet at Night

Erdenet has a vibrant nightlife scene, with several bars and clubs offering live music, karaoke, and dance floors. Many venues feature local artists and bands, providing an authentic experience of Mongolian culture. The atmosphere is generally friendly and welcoming, making it easy to mingle with locals and other travelers. Popular spots often stay open late into the night, making Erdenet a fun place to unwind after a day of exploration.

Hiking in Erdenet

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Khangai Mountain Trail

A popular hiking trail that offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, suitable for hikers of all levels.

Khuiten River Trail

This scenic trail follows the banks of the Khuiten River, providing opportunities for wildlife spotting and enjoying the natural landscape.

Airports

How to reach Erdenet by plane.

Mörön Airport

Located approximately 110 km from Erdenet, Mörön Airport offers domestic flights, making it a convenient gateway for travelers heading to northern Mongolia.

Getting Around

Walkability

Erdenet is moderately walkable, with many attractions located within a reasonable distance from one another. The city features sidewalks in urban areas, though some paths may be uneven in residential neighborhoods. Walking is a common way to explore local markets and parks, but be cautious of traffic in busier areas. Overall, it's a pleasant city to explore on foot, especially in the warmer months.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Mongolian Ethnic Majority

The majority of Erdenet's population is ethnic Mongolian, contributing to the rich culture and traditions in the region.

Minority Groups

There are also small communities of ethnic minorities, including Russians and Kazakhs, adding to the cultural diversity of the city.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Wrestling

A traditional Mongolian sport, wrestling is highly celebrated during festivals and cultural events.

Horse Racing

Horse racing is another popular sport, showcasing the country's strong equestrian culture and skills.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Erdenet is manageable, especially compared to larger cities. Most transportation is done via buses, taxis, or private vehicles, with many roads being well-maintained. Public transportation is available but may require patience due to limited schedules. Walking or biking is also a feasible option for getting around the city.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Erdenet.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Vegetarian dishes are limited, but some restaurants offer salads and noodle dishes without meat.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free options may be available, but it's best to inquire directly with restaurants.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Erdenet is reasonable, with several clinics and a central hospital available for residents and visitors. While basic medical care is provided, more specialized services may require traveling to larger cities like Ulaanbaatar. It's advisable for travelers to carry travel insurance and have access to necessary medications, as well as to know the location of the nearest medical facility.

Discover Mongolia

Read more in our Mongolia 2025 Travel Guide.

Mongolia Travel Guide