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Capital City: Ulaanbaatar
Government System: Semi-presidential republic
Surface Area: 1,564,116 km²
Population: Approximately 3.4 million
Languages Spoken: Mongolian (official), Kazakh and other minority languages
Major Religions: Tibetan Buddhism, Shamanism, Islam, Christianity
Country Overview
Mongolia is a vast and landlocked nation situated between Russia to the north and China to the south. Known as the “Land of the Eternal Blue Sky,” it boasts over 260 sunny days a year and a landscape that stretches from the sweeping steppes to the rugged Altai Mountains and the immense Gobi Desert. Despite its huge size, the population is small, giving it one of the lowest population densities in the world. Ulaanbaatar, the capital, is the bustling cultural and political hub, where modern high-rises stand alongside Soviet-era blocks and Buddhist monasteries. Travelling outside the city, however, you quickly encounter a traditional way of life, with nomadic families living in gers (yurts) and herding livestock, much as their ancestors have done for centuries.
The country’s history is inseparable from the legacy of Genghis Khan, whose empire stretched across much of Eurasia. This influence is still felt today, not only in monuments and museums but in the national pride of the people. Mongolia has also endured long periods of external control, notably as part of the Qing dynasty, before establishing its independence in the 20th century. Since the fall of communism in 1990, Mongolia has been steadily developing into a democracy with a market economy. The mining sector, especially copper, coal, and gold, has become a backbone of the economy, though livestock herding and agriculture remain vital in rural areas.
Tourism is increasingly important, drawing visitors to its striking natural scenery, cultural festivals such as Naadam, and unique wildlife. Adventure seekers come for horse-riding expeditions, camel treks in the Gobi, and camping under some of the clearest skies on earth. Visitors are often struck by the hospitality of the Mongolian people, whose traditions of welcoming strangers into their homes with salty milk tea and a meal still endure. The experience of visiting Mongolia is not just about seeing the landscape, but about sharing in a way of life that has remained remarkably resilient in the modern age.
Regions
| Orhon | Darhan-Uul | Hentiy |
| Hövsgöl | Hovd | Uvd |
| Töv | Selenge | Sühbaatar |
| Omnögovĭ | Ovörhangay | Dzavhan |
| Dundgovĭ | Dornod | Dornogovĭ |
| Govĭ-Sümber | Govĭ-Altay | Bulgan |
| Bayanhongor | Bayan-Ölgiy | Arhangay |
| Ulaanbaatar |
USEFUL INFORMATION
Currency & banking
💱 Currency Overview
The official currency of Mongolia is the Tögrög (MNT). It is a relatively stable currency, though fluctuations against the US dollar and other major currencies are not unusual. Cash is still king outside the capital, and visitors are advised to always carry some notes, especially in rural areas where cards and ATMs may not be accepted. Prices in Mongolia are generally lower than in Europe or North America, though imported goods can be costly.
💵 Denominations
The tögrög is issued in both coins and banknotes. Coins are available in small denominations, but they are rarely used in everyday transactions. Banknotes are far more common and come in denominations of ₮1, ₮5, ₮10, ₮20, ₮50, ₮100, ₮500, ₮1,000, ₮5,000, ₮10,000 and ₮20,000. The ₮20,000 note is the highest denomination and is useful for larger purchases, though many smaller shops may struggle to provide change for it. Notes feature images of Genghis Khan, historic leaders, and national symbols.
💳 Currency Exchange
Currency exchange is straightforward in Ulaanbaatar, where banks, exchange offices, and some hotels offer this service. Rates are usually best at banks, though official exchange counters are also reliable. It is not recommended to exchange money on the street. US dollars are the most widely accepted foreign currency, followed by euros and Chinese yuan. Outside the capital, exchange services are much harder to find, so it is wise to stock up before leaving Ulaanbaatar.
🏧 Credit Cards & ATMs
Credit cards are increasingly accepted in Ulaanbaatar’s hotels, restaurants, and larger shops, but elsewhere, cash remains essential. ATMs are widely available in the capital and regional centres, dispensing tögrög in larger denominations. However, they may not always function reliably, and some rural towns may not have them at all. Visa and Mastercard are the most commonly accepted cards, with American Express much less so. Always carry enough cash for remote travel.
Tipping
🍽️ Tipping in Restaurants
Tipping is not traditionally part of Mongolian culture, but in Ulaanbaatar and tourist-focused establishments, it has become common. A tip of around 5–10% of the bill is appreciated if the service is good, though it is rarely added automatically. In smaller, local eateries, rounding up the bill is sufficient.
🏨 Tipping in Hotels
In larger hotels, particularly international chains, it is customary to tip staff such as porters (₮2,000–₮5,000 per bag) and housekeeping (₮3,000–₮5,000 per day). In smaller, locally run guesthouses, tipping is less expected, though staff will be grateful for small tokens of appreciation.
🚖 Tipping for Taxis
Taxis in Mongolia generally do not require tipping, and locals rarely leave one. If the driver has helped with luggage or gone out of their way to assist, rounding up the fare is a polite gesture. Negotiated fares do not typically include tips.
🧭 Tipping Guides & Drivers
For tour guides and drivers, tipping is more customary and often expected. A guide may receive the equivalent of US $5–10 per day, while drivers usually receive US $3–5 per day, depending on the quality of service. These tips are often shared among team members on longer tours.
Communications
📶 Public WiFi
Public WiFi is increasingly available in Ulaanbaatar, with many cafes, restaurants, and shopping centres offering free access. Connections can be patchy and speeds vary, so it is not always reliable for heavy use. Outside the capital, public WiFi is rare.
🏨 Hotel WiFi
Most hotels in Ulaanbaatar provide free WiFi for guests, with varying degrees of reliability. Higher-end hotels generally have strong connections, while budget accommodation may be slower or only available in common areas. Rural guesthouses often have no WiFi at all.
📱 Mobile Networks & SIM Cards
Mobile coverage is surprisingly good across much of Mongolia, including rural areas, thanks to an extensive network of towers. The main providers are Unitel, Mobicom, and Skytel. Buying a local SIM card is inexpensive and gives access to both calls and data. Tourists need to present their passport to purchase one. Prepaid packages with data are widely available.
Getting Around
🚌 Buses
City buses in Ulaanbaatar are cheap and frequent, though often crowded. They are a cost-effective way to get around, but signage is limited for non-Mongolian speakers.
🚖 Taxis
Taxis are plentiful in Ulaanbaatar, but it is best to use official or app-based services such as UB Cab. Many locals also flag down private cars, but this is not recommended for tourists.
🚗 Car Hire
Hiring a car is possible but not advisable unless you have experience driving in Mongolia’s challenging conditions. Roads outside the capital are often rough, and many are unpaved. A driver with local knowledge is highly recommended.
🚐 Long-Distance Transport
Travel between cities is possible by minibus, coach, or shared vans. These are affordable but can be crowded and slow. Rail connections are limited, though the Trans-Mongolian Railway is a popular route linking Russia, Mongolia, and China.
🐎 Traditional Transport
In rural areas, horses, camels, and even yaks are still used for local transport, and tourists may have opportunities to travel short distances in this traditional way.
Health advice
💉 Health Advice
Healthcare standards in Mongolia are improving but still limited outside Ulaanbaatar. Tourists should ensure they have comprehensive travel insurance that includes evacuation cover.
| Vaccine | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Hepatitis A | Recommended |
| Hepatitis B | Recommended |
| Typhoid | Recommended |
| Rabies | Consider for rural travel |
| Tetanus/Diphtheria | Ensure up-to-date |
| Japanese Encephalitis | For long rural stays |
🦠 Diseases
Hepatitis, typhoid, and rabies are present, especially in rural areas. Travellers should avoid untreated water and ensure food is thoroughly cooked.
🏥 Healthcare Standards
Facilities in Ulaanbaatar are adequate for routine care, but serious conditions may require evacuation to a neighbouring country such as South Korea or Thailand. Rural healthcare is very basic.
🛡️ Insurance
Comprehensive travel insurance is essential, particularly one that covers air evacuation, which can be very costly.
Safety
🛑 Crime
Mongolia is generally safe, though petty crime such as pickpocketing and bag snatching can occur in crowded areas of Ulaanbaatar. Violent crime against tourists is rare.
⚠️ General Safety
Visitors should be cautious when crossing roads in Ulaanbaatar due to chaotic traffic. In rural areas, natural hazards such as extreme weather and remoteness are the main risks.
📜 Local Laws
Drug offences carry severe penalties, and photography of government or military sites is prohibited. Always carry your passport or a copy for identification.
| Emergency Service | Number |
|---|---|
| Police | 102 |
| Ambulance | 103 |
| Fire | 101 |
Climate
☀️ Summer (June–August)
Warm with average temperatures of 20–25°C, though nights can be chilly. This is the peak tourist season and best for outdoor adventures.
🍂 Autumn (September–October)
Cooler, with temperatures dropping quickly. Landscapes are colourful, and it is less crowded than summer.
❄️ Winter (November–March)
Extremely cold, with temperatures regularly falling below -20°C. Not ideal for most tourists, though the winter scenery can be striking.
🌱 Spring (April–May)
Unpredictable weather, often windy and dusty, with occasional snow. Travel is possible but conditions may be harsh.
🎒 Packing Tips
Layered clothing, warm jackets for nights, and sturdy boots are essential. Sun protection is also important due to the high altitude and clear skies.
📅 Best Time to Visit
The best months are June to September, when the weather is warm and festivals such as Naadam take place.
| Season | Conditions | Suitability |
|---|---|---|
| Summer | Warm, busy | Best for travel |
| Autumn | Cooler, scenic | Good |
| Winter | Very cold | Not recommended |
| Spring | Unstable | Challenging |
Visa information
🛂 Visa Information
Most tourists require a visa to enter Mongolia, though citizens of some countries enjoy visa-free access for short stays. Tourist visas are usually valid for 30 days and can be extended once for another 30 days inside the country.
📑 Visa Types
Tourist visas, business visas, and transit visas are available. Applications can be made at Mongolian embassies or consulates abroad, or in some cases on arrival at Ulaanbaatar airport.
🌐 Useful Links
Electrical
Which power plugs and sockets are used in Mongolia?
Mongolia uses power outlets and plugs of types C & E. Take a look at the pictures below to see what these plugs and power sockets look like:
All power sockets in Mongolia provide a standard voltage of 220V with a standard frequency of 50Hz.
