Mongolia is a fascinating ancient country famous for the Steppe, Genghis Khan, and spectacular natural scenery. Remote wilderness areas also feature an intriguing cultural history. Today over a million nomads continue to live the life of traditional herdsmen. Mongolia is still developing as a nation and, as a result, the infrastructure and amenities are basic outside the capital city of Ulaanbaatar. While visitors to the capital will find a range of luxury hotels, restaurants and facilities catering to all the needs of the modern traveller, the country’s primary drawcard is undoubtedly the exquisite stretches of remote countryside where outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy a range of exhilarating adventures, such as horseriding across the Gobi desert, hiking, mountain biking or even a homestay in a traditional yurt.
Banking and Currency
Currency
Local currency: Mongolian Tögrög
Symbol: ₮
ISO code: MNT
Subunit: Möngö (1/100)
Banknotes: ₮10, ₮20, ₮50, ₮100, ₮500, ₮1,000, ₮5,000, ₮10,000, ₮20,000
Coins: ₮20, ₮50, ₮100, ₮200, ₮500
Banking
Card Transactions: Limited
ATMs: Yes
Mastercard: Yes
Visa: Yes
American Express: Limited
Diner’s club: Limited
Banking Hours: Weekdays: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Weekends: Limited
Public Holidays: Yes (limited hours)
Foreign exchange services: Yes
Travel, Transport and Getting Around
Air:
Main airlines: MIAT Mongolian Airlines
International Airports: Chinggis Khaan International Airport (ULN)
Domestic Airports: Buyant-Ukhaa International Airport (UBN), Choibalsan Airport (COQ), and more.
Road:
Driving on the: Right
Tar roads: Yes
Gravel roads: Yes
Valid International Driver's License needed: Yes
Car hire available: Yes
Taxis: Yes
E-hailing services: Yes
Bus:
Inter-city bus services: Yes
Local city bus networks: Yes
Rail:
Railway system: Limited
Subway System: No
Water:
Ferries: No
Water taxis: No
Leisure cruises: No
Food, Drink and Cuisine Advice
Food and water safety:
Can you drink the tap water: No
Fresh fruit and veg: Yes
Ice: No
Meat: Yes
Street food: Yes
Local cuisine: Mongolian cuisine is characterized by meat-heavy dishes, often prepared with mutton, beef, or goat. One of the most famous dishes is Buuz, steamed dumplings filled with minced meat and spices. Other notable dishes include Khuushuur (deep-fried meat pastry), Tsuivan (stir-fried noodles with meat and vegetables), and Khorkhog (meat stew cooked with hot stones).
Drinks: Airag (fermented mare's milk), Suutei Tsai (salty milk tea), and Arkhi (Mongolian vodka).
Tipping: Tipping is not expected but appreciated, typically rounding up the bill.
Climate and Weather
Annual rainfall: Varies
Average temperature: 0°C
Summer:
Average highs: 25°C
Average lows: 10°C
Winter:
Average highs: -10°C
Average lows: -20°C
Best time to visit: The best time to visit Mongolia is during the summer months from June to August when the weather is warmer and more suitable for outdoor activities. The Naadam Festival in July offers a unique cultural experience.
Clothing and Dress Recommendations
Spring and Summer
Cool, light, breathable and comfortable: Yes
Lightweight warm clothes: Yes
Winter and Autumn
Jerseys, cardigans, sweaters, jackets: Recommended
Heavyweight clothing and boots: Yes
General
Umbrella and raincoat: No
Warm gloves, hat and scarf: Yes
Swimming costume (bathing suit): Yes
Hat, sunglasses and sunblock: Yes
Walking shoes: Yes
Casual: Yes
Smart-casual attire: Yes
Internet Availability
Internet cafes: Limited
Accommodation options: Yes
Restaurants: Limited
Cafes: Limited
Shopping malls: Limited
Public parks: Limited
Libraries: Limited
Electricity and Plug Standards
Plug Type: Type C, Type E
Voltage (V): 230
Frequency Hertz (Hz): 50
*Travel plug adapter and voltage converter might be necessary depending on your appliances.
