Mongolia Travel Guide | Ticket N Trip

Introduction

Mongolia — the Land of the Eternal Blue Sky — is a vast, untouched wilderness between Russia and China. Known for its dramatic landscapes, nomadic traditions, and the legendary Genghis Khan, Mongolia offers an unforgettable blend of adventure, culture, and serenity.

Quick Facts

  • Capital: Ulaanbaatar
  • Currency: Mongolian Tögrög (MNT)
  • Official Language: Mongolian
  • Time Zone: UTC +8
  • Best Time to Visit: May – September
  • Visa: eVisa available for many nationalities

Top Attractions in Mongolia

1. Ulaanbaatar

  • Visit the Gandantegchinlen Monastery and Sukhbaatar Square.
  • Explore the National Museum of Mongolia to understand the country’s nomadic roots.
  • Enjoy nightlife, cafes, and Mongolian BBQ at Peace Avenue.

2. Gobi Desert

  • Witness sand dunes at Khongoryn Els (the Singing Dunes).
  • Discover Yolyn Am (Vulture’s Valley) and spot rare wildlife like ibex and snow leopards.
  • Experience camel rides and stay in a traditional ger camp.

3. Khovsgol Lake

  • Often called the “Blue Pearl of Mongolia.”
  • Perfect for kayaking, horseback riding, and hiking.
  • Meet the Tsaatan reindeer herders, one of the world’s last nomadic tribes.

4. Orkhon Valley

  • UNESCO World Heritage Site with ancient ruins and monasteries.
  • Visit Erdene Zuu Monastery, Mongolia’s oldest Buddhist monastery.
  • Explore lush green valleys dotted with gers and wild horses.

5. Terelj National Park

  • Just 1.5 hours from Ulaanbaatar.
  • See Turtle Rock, Ariyabal Meditation Temple, and enjoy horseback treks.
  • Stay overnight in a ger camp under starry skies.

6. Kharkhorin

  • Once the capital of the Mongol Empire.
  • Historical site featuring Genghis Khan’s legacy and ancient artifacts.

Things to Do in Mongolia

  • Attend the Naadam Festival (July) – featuring wrestling, horse racing, and archery.
  • Go on a horseback expedition across the steppes.
  • Experience a homestay with nomads for authentic Mongolian culture.
  • Enjoy stargazing in the world’s clearest night skies.
  • Explore Eagle Hunting Festivals in western Mongolia.

Food & Cuisine

  • Buuz – Steamed meat dumplings.
  • Khuushuur – Fried meat pies.
  • Airag – Fermented mare’s milk, a national drink.
  • Tsuivan – Stir-fried noodles with meat and vegetables.
  • Boodog – Traditional barbecue cooked inside an animal skin with hot stones.

Tip: Vegetarian options can be limited outside Ulaanbaatar — plan ahead.

Where to Stay

  • Luxury: Shangri-La Hotel (Ulaanbaatar), Terelj Hotel.
  • Mid-range: Holiday Inn, Ramada, local boutique hotels.
  • Budget: Ger camps, guesthouses, hostels.
  • Unique Stay: Nomadic family ger experience.

Getting Around

  • Domestic flights: Connect Ulaanbaatar with Gobi, Khovsgol, and Bayan-Ölgii.
  • 4×4 jeeps: Best for countryside travel.
  • Trains: Trans-Mongolian Railway connects to Russia and China.
  • Horse/Camel rides: Traditional and adventurous local travel.

Festivals

  • Naadam Festival (July): Mongolia’s biggest celebration.
  • Tsagaan Sar (February): Mongolian Lunar New Year.
  • Golden Eagle Festival (October): Showcases Kazakh eagle hunters’ skills.

Travel Tips

  • Carry cash — ATMs are limited outside major towns.
  • Learn basic Mongolian greetings.
  • Pack for temperature extremes — even in summer, nights get cold.
  • Respect nomadic customs when visiting families.
  • Consider hiring a local guide for remote expeditions.