Did you know Lonely Planet Names Mongolia as the Top Country to visit?
On the eve of its 50th anniversary, Lonely Planet has named Mongolia as the top country to visit in 2024. Mongolia was selected for its stunning landscapes, rich culture, and unique nomadic experiences.
The Mongolian Government has also declared 2023-2025 as the “Years to Visit Mongolia.” The Ministry of Culture of Mongolia has stated that the gradual liberalization of air transport, promotion of digital technologies in tourism, adherence to tourism standards, and the promotion of Mongolia at the international level have yielded positive results.
Tourists can listen to traditional folk music, taste national food such as buuz (steamed dumplings), experience the Naadam Festival, and feel the spirit of freedom from horseback riding. One of the most recommended destinations is the Orkhon River Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its beautiful scenery and historical significance.
Things to know before visiting Mongolia
🛂 Entry & Travel Basics
- Visa: Many countries have visa-free entry (Europe, Japan, Korea, USA, Canada, Australia, etc. for 30–90 days). Others can apply online for an e-visa. Always check updated rules.
- Best Time to Visit:
- Summer (June–August): warm, green steppes, Naadam Festival.
- Autumn (Sept–Oct): colorful landscapes, fewer tourists.
- Winter (Nov–Feb): very cold (–20°C to –40°C), but unique for eagle festivals, snow, and nomadic resilience.
- Spring (Mar–May): windy, dusty, but lambing season in nomadic families.
- Transport: Distances are long, roads outside Ulaanbaatar can be unpaved. Domestic flights save time, otherwise expect long drives (4–10 hrs).
🌍 Geography & Climate
- Mongolia is vast and sparsely populated — the size of Western Europe but only ~3.5 million people.
- Weather is extreme and changeable: four seasons in a day is common. Pack for layers (windproof, rainproof, warm).
- Altitude: Ulaanbaatar sits at 1,350 m above sea level, many areas higher, so take it slow on hikes.
🏕 Nomadic Culture & Etiquette
- Around 25–30% of Mongolians still live as nomads. Staying in a ger (yurt) is a highlight.
- Hospitality is sacred. If invited into a ger:
- Enter with your right foot, don’t lean on the doorframe.
- Accept food/drink with your right hand (or both).
- Don’t touch the stove or fire with your feet.
- Don’t walk between the two central pillars.
- Offering tea, dairy, or meat is a sign of respect. Always taste, even if just a sip.
🍲 Food & Drink
- Traditional diet is meat-heavy (mutton, beef) and dairy-based. Vegetarians should inform guides in advance.
- Try buuz (steamed dumplings), khuushuur (fried meat pies), airag (fermented mare’s milk), and milk tea.
- Bottled water is recommended outside cities.
📶 Connectivity & Money
- SIM cards are cheap and reliable in towns (Unitel, Mobicom, G-Mobile). Rural coverage is limited.
- ATMs in Ulaanbaatar are common, but carry cash (MNT – Tugrik) when traveling. Credit cards accepted only in big hotels/restaurants.
đźš™ Adventure & Safety
- Mongolia is a remote adventure destination. Be prepared for:
- Long off-road journeys.
- Basic conditions in countryside camps.
- Limited medical facilities outside Ulaanbaatar — bring a travel kit.
- Wildlife: horses, camels, yaks, eagles — not dangerous, but respect nature.
- Travel insurance is strongly recommended.
🎉 Festivals & Events
- Naadam Festival (July): wrestling, horse racing, archery.
- Golden Eagle Festival (Sept/Oct, Bayan-Ă–lgii): Kazakh eagle hunters showcase skills.
- Tsagaan Sar (Feb): Lunar New Year, family celebrations.
âś… Quick Tips
- Learn a few words: Sain baina uu (Hello), Bayarlalaa (Thank you).
- Ulaanbaatar traffic is heavy — allow time.
- Mongolia is safe (low crime rate), but pickpocketing in crowded places can happen.
- Respect nature: leave no trace in the wilderness.