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Country Facts
Capital
Ulaanbaatar
Size
1,564,116 km2 (603,909 sq mi)
Time Zone
GMT+8
Population
3,475,540
Currency
Mongolian tögrög or tugrik
Mongolia
Mongolia is a captivating destination for adventurous travellers, offering vast, untouched landscapes of rolling steppes, dramatic deserts, and towering mountains, along with a rich nomadic culture and unique historical landmarks like the ancient city of Karakorum and the impressive Genghis Khan monuments. Visitors can immerse themselves in traditional Mongolian experiences such as staying in ger camps, riding horses across the wilderness, and exploring the remote beauty of the Gobi Desert, all while experiencing the warmth and hospitality of the Mongolian people. With its blend of natural wonders and rich heritage, Mongolia promises a truly off-the-beaten-path experience.
Reasons to visit Mongolia:
Top Attractions of Mongolia:
- Genghis Khan Equestrian Statue
Standing at 40 metres tall, this colossal statue near Ulaanbaatar is a symbol of Mongolia’s proud history. It’s the largest equestrian statue in the world and offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, providing insight into the legacy of Genghis Khan. - The Gobi Desert
The vast Gobi Desert is one of Mongolia’s most iconic natural wonders, featuring towering sand dunes, dramatic rock formations, and ancient fossil sites. The desert is home to unique wildlife and is famous for the Flaming Cliffs (Bayanzag), where dinosaur fossils were discovered. - Karakorum and Erdene Zuu Monastery
The ancient capital of the Mongol Empire, Karakorum, is now an archaeological site. Nearby, the Erdene Zuu Monastery, one of the oldest Buddhist monasteries in Mongolia, is a serene spot to learn about the country’s religious heritage. - Lake Khövsgöl
Often referred to as the “Blue Pearl of Mongolia,” Lake Khövsgöl is a pristine, deep freshwater lake surrounded by mountains and forests. It’s a popular destination for hiking, boating, and horseback riding, offering stunning landscapes and a peaceful retreat. - Khustain Nuruu National Park
Known for its conservation of the wild Przewalski’s horse, this park is a must-visit for wildlife enthusiasts. The park’s vast steppe landscapes are also home to other wildlife like gazelles and lynxes. - Altai Mountains
This mountain range, located in western Mongolia, is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is famous for its remote beauty. The Altai Mountains are home to ancient petroglyphs, glaciers, and the Kazakh eagle hunters, whose traditional hunting practices can be witnessed during visits. - Naadam Festival
Held every July, the Naadam Festival is Mongolia’s most significant celebration, featuring the “three manly games” of wrestling, horse racing, and archery. It’s a great way to experience the country’s rich traditions and vibrant culture. - Terkhiin Tsagaan Nuur National Park
Located in the central region, this park is famous for its stunning white lake (Terkhiin Tsagaan Nuur), surrounded by volcanic mountains and forests. It’s a popular spot for hiking, fishing, and camping. - The Orkhon Valley
This UNESCO World Heritage site is home to several historical landmarks, including ancient tombs, monasteries, and the ruins of the Uighur Empire. The valley is also known for its beautiful scenery and nomadic way of life. - Hustai National Park
Hustai is another key destination for wildlife lovers, known for its successful reintroduction of the wild horse, the Przewalski’s horse. The park is a stunning blend of grasslands and mountains, with opportunities for wildlife watching, trekking, and horseback riding.
These attractions showcase the diverse beauty and rich heritage of Mongolia, offering everything from natural wonders to historical landmarks and immersive cultural experiences.
Preparing For A Trip To Mongolia?
Visa Information / Entry requirements to Mongolia
This information is for people travelling on a full ‘British citizen’ passport from the UK. It is based on the UK government’s understanding of Mongolia’s current rules for the most common types of travel.
The authorities in Mongolia set and enforce entry rules. If you’re not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact the Mongolian Embassy in the UK.
COVID-19 rules
There are no COVID-19 testing or vaccination requirements for travellers entering Mongolia.
Passport validity requirements
To enter Mongolia, your passport must have an ‘expiry date’ at least 6 months after the date you arrive.
Check with your travel provider that your passport and other travel documents meet requirements. Renew your passport if you need to.
You will be denied entry if you do not have a valid travel document or try to use a passport that has been reported lost or stolen.
Visa requirements
You can visit Mongolia without a visa for up to 30 days within a 6-month period.
Applying for a visa
To stay longer, to work or study, for business travel or for other reasons you must meet the Mongolian government’s entry requirements. For more details, contact the Mongolian Embassy in the UK.
Make sure you get your passport stamped.
Make sure the border control officer puts a stamp in your passport or you could face issues when leaving the country.
Travelling with children
Adults accompanying children other than their own should have a notarised letter from the parents or legal guardian to confirm the arrangement.
Vaccine requirements
For details about medical entry requirements and recommended vaccinations, see TravelHealthPro’s Mongolia guide.
Registering with the authorities
Your hotel or landlord will register you using an app. If you are travelling independently or staying with friends, you must register yourself with the Mongolian Immigration Agency. You do not need to go in person.
The agency will issue you with a digital residence permit that shows your passport number, address, photograph and fingerprints. Always carry it when you are in Mongolia.
Borders with Mongolia
Mongolia takes border security very seriously and foreign nationals are not routinely allowed access to border areas. The authorities can regard zones of up to 100km inside the border as a border area. If you wish to travel in these areas, you must get permission from the State Frontier Guard Authority. Only a few specified land border crossings are open to foreigners.
Border points open to British citizens
There are normally 8 border points open to British passport holders:
- Chinggis Khaan International Airport in Ulaanbaatar
- Zamin Uud – road and train crossing to China
- Bulgan – road crossing to China in the west
- Bichigt – road crossing to China in the south-east
- Tsagaannuur – road crossing to Russia in the far west
- Sukhbaatar – train crossing to Russia
- Altanbulag – road crossing to Russia
- Ereen-Tsav – road crossing to Russia
You may not cross into China or Russia at other border points, as they are only open to Mongolians, Chinese or Russians.
If you travel by train across the China-Mongolia border, expect a delay of a few hours as the railways use different gauges.
It is difficult to get visas for China or Russia in Mongolia. Ask the Chinese and Russian embassies in London about their visa requirements before travelling to Mongolia.
Mongolia-Russia border
You can only enter Mongolia from Russia on public buses, trains, taxis or private vehicles. All international flights are suspended.
Russian border officials will carefully examine your travel documents.
If you have arrived in Mongolia from Russia and need assistance, call +976 (11) 458 133 and select the option ‘consular services for British nationals’.
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Tourism Health Information – Mongolia
Before you travel check that:
- your destination can provide the healthcare you may need
- you have appropriate travel insurance for local treatment or unexpected medical evacuation
This is particularly important if you have a health condition or are pregnant.
Emergency medical number
Call 103 and ask for an ambulance.
Contact your insurance company quickly if you’re referred to a medical facility for treatment.
Vaccine recommendations and health risks
At least 8 weeks before your trip:
- check the latest vaccine recommendations for Mongolia
- see where to get vaccines and whether you have to pay on the NHS travel vaccinations page
See what health risks you’ll face in Mongolia.
Altitude sickness is a risk in parts of Mongolia. Read more about altitude sickness on TravelHealthPro.
The high levels of air pollution in Ulaanbaatar, especially in winter, may aggravate bronchial, sinus or asthma conditions. Children, the elderly and those with pre-existing medical conditions may be especially affected. You can check the levels for Ulaanbaatar on the Real-time Air Quality Index.
Medication
The legal status and regulation of some medicines prescribed or bought in the UK can be different in other countries.
Read best practice when travelling with medicines on TravelHealthPro.
It is best to bring prescription medication and a first aid kit with you. Medical products in pharmacies are mainly from China and Russia, so you may not easily recognise what you need.
Healthcare in Mongolia
There are no reciprocal healthcare agreements between the UK and Mongolia, so you cannot get free healthcare in Mongolia.
If you are injured or become ill in a remote part of the country, it may be a long journey to the nearest medical facility. Outside Ulaanbaatar, the standard of healthcare is limited, and doctors may not speak English.
At hospitals, you will have to pay 80% of the treatment cost in advance. Make sure you have access to funds and that your insurance covers:
- full medical expenses
- an air ambulance, in case you need to be flown home
- bringing a body home in the event of a death
- bringing your family home, if one of you is seriously ill or injured
FCDO has a list of medical providers in Mongolia where some staff will speak English.
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Weather & When To Go To Mongolia
Mongolia experiences a harsh continental climate with extreme temperature variations between summer and winter, offering a unique travel experience throughout the year. Here’s an overview of the weather and the best times to visit:
Spring (April to June)
Weather: Spring in Mongolia is cool and dry, with temperatures ranging from 5°C to 15°C (41°F to 59°F). Early spring can still be chilly, particularly in the evenings.
Highlights:
As the snow melts, the landscapes begin to bloom, and it’s an ideal time for hiking and exploring Mongolia’s vast steppes.
Spring offers fewer tourists, so visitors can enjoy a more peaceful, unhurried experience.
Best For: Outdoor enthusiasts and those looking to avoid the summer crowds.
Summer (July to August)
Weather: Summer in Mongolia is short but warm, with daytime temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F). Nights can still be chilly, especially in the desert or mountain areas.
Highlights:
This is the most popular time to visit due to warmer weather and numerous festivals, including the Naadam Festival in July.
Perfect for outdoor activities like trekking, camping, horse riding, and exploring Mongolia’s natural beauty.
Best For: Festival-goers, adventure seekers, and those looking to experience Mongolia’s vibrant summer life.
Autumn (September to October)
Weather: Autumn is crisp and cool, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F) during the day, dropping significantly at night.
Highlights:
This season brings stunning fall colours to the forests and steppes, making it an excellent time for photography and sightseeing.
The weather is still pleasant enough for outdoor activities, but with fewer tourists than in summer.
Best For: Nature lovers and those seeking a quieter experience with beautiful landscapes.
Winter (November to March)
Weather: Winter in Mongolia is cold and dry, with temperatures often plummeting well below freezing, ranging from -20°C to -40°C (-4°F to -40°F) in the far north. Snow is common, and the wind can make it feel even colder.
Highlights:
Winter offers a unique experience of the country’s nomadic lifestyle, as visitors can stay in traditional gers (yurts) and witness the country’s winter activities, including ice fishing and winter horse racing.
It’s the best time for winter sports in the Altai Mountains and the Gobi Desert, but it’s also the least popular time to visit due to the extreme cold.
Best For: Adventurers seeking a unique and remote winter experience or those wanting to experience traditional Mongolian life during the harshest season.
Best Time to Visit Mongolia
Best Overall: The most favourable time to visit is during the summer months (June to August), particularly for those wishing to take part in the Naadam Festival or enjoy pleasant weather for outdoor adventures.
Alternative: If you prefer a quieter, less crowded experience, autumn (September to October) offers beautiful landscapes and mild weather without the summer rush.
Keep in mind that Mongolia’s weather can be unpredictable, so it’s important to prepare for temperature shifts and varying conditions, especially when venturing into remote regions.
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