Ready for your dream Mongolia vacation? From the vast steppe and golden dunes to the blue waters of Lake Khövsgöl, the ancient capital of Karakorum to the thundering hooves of Naadam, this guide outlines the best Mongolia itinerary.
These easy curated itineraries help you find the best things to do in Mongolia—featuring nomadic homestays, camel treks, eagle festivals, yurt (ger) camping, and desert starry nights.
Want to make your Mongolia trip even more special? Learn basic Mongolian before you go
- Ulaanbaatar: Mongolia’s bustling capital—where Soviet blocks, shiny skyscrapers, Buddhist temples, and Genghis Khan’s legacy collide.
- Karakorum (Kharkhorin): The ancient capital of the Mongol Empire, now home to Erdene Zuu—Mongolia’s first Buddhist monastery.
- Dalanzadgad: The dusty desert hub of the south—gateway to the flaming cliffs, singing dunes, and epic landscapes of the Gobi.
- Mörön: A northern town with markets, mountain air, and your launchpad to the mystical Lake Khövsgöl.
- Lake Khövsgöl: Known as the “Blue Pearl of Mongolia,” this crystal-clear lake is perfect for kayaking, hiking, and getting lost in nature.
- Erdenet: One of Mongolia’s largest cities—famous for its copper mine, green surroundings, and a peek at modern Mongolian life.
- Tsetserleg: A pretty mountain town in Arkhangai with tree-lined streets, hot springs nearby, and peaceful temple views.
- Ölgii: A wild west outpost in the Altai Mountains—home to Kazakh eagle hunters and Mongolia’s most unique cultural blend.
- Baruun-Urt: Remote, quiet, and raw—this eastern town offers a glimpse into Mongolia’s unfiltered countryside life.
- Sainshand: A railway stop in the Dornogovi desert—known for spiritual energy, sand temples, and remote desert monasteries.
- Bulgan: A small provincial capital near lush valleys, nomadic families, and scenic countryside in north-central Mongolia.
💡 Mongolia Tips
- Prepare for extreme weather: Mongolia has harsh winters and hot summers. Bring layers, windproof jackets, and sun protection, especially in the Gobi and steppe.
- Cash is king: Credit cards are accepted in Ulaanbaatar, but outside the capital, carry Mongolian tögrög in small denominations.
- Roads are rough: Travel between regions often involves long, bumpy rides. Hire a 4×4 and experienced driver or join a tour for comfort and safety.
- Respect nomadic customs: When visiting gers (yurts), always follow local etiquette — greet with a handshake, accept offered food or drink, and never point your feet at the hearth.
- Ask before taking photos: Especially of people or religious sites. In rural areas, always get permission.
- Internet is limited outside cities: Wi-Fi is good in Ulaanbaatar, but expect little or no access in remote areas — bring offline maps and downloads.
- Learn a few Mongolian words: Locals appreciate greetings like “Sain bainuu” (hello) and “Bayarlalaa” (thank you).
- Public toilets are scarce and basic: Bring tissues, hand sanitizer, and be ready to use outhouses or nature when traveling rural.
- Travel insurance is essential: Medical facilities outside Ulaanbaatar are limited — make sure you’re covered for emergencies and evacuations.
- Respect the environment: Mongolia’s landscapes are pristine — pack out your trash, avoid damaging pasturelands, and follow local guides’ advice.
- Try traditional drinks cautiously: Fermented mare’s milk (airag) and vodka are culturally important — try a small amount if offered, but never pressure others or overindulge.
- Pack for long distances: Even simple errands can take hours — bring snacks, water, and a power bank on road trips.
🇲🇳 Mongolia Menu
- Buuz: Steamed dumplings filled with minced mutton or beef, onions, and sometimes garlic — a staple during Lunar New Year and everyday life.
- Khuushuur: Fried meat pies similar to empanadas, filled with seasoned ground meat — crispy, juicy, and popular at festivals.
- Bansh: Smaller dumplings often boiled and served in soup or broth — a comforting and everyday dish.
- Khorkhog: A celebratory dish made by cooking meat (usually mutton or goat) with hot stones in a sealed container — tender, smoky, and cooked outdoors.
- Boodog: Whole goat or marmot cooked from the inside out using hot stones — a rare, traditional nomadic preparation for special occasions.
- Tsuivan: Stir-fried handmade noodles with meat and vegetables — simple, hearty, and widely eaten.
- Guriltai Shul: Noodle soup made with mutton, onions, and hand-cut noodles — warm and filling, especially in winter.
- Airag: Fermented mare’s milk — mildly alcoholic, tart, and foamy. An essential part of nomadic hospitality.
- Aaruul: Dried curd or yogurt cheese — sour, hard, and eaten as a snack or with tea.
- Suutei Tsai: Salted milk tea made with black tea, milk, salt, and sometimes butter — served with most meals and central to Mongolian culture.
- Boortsog: Deep-fried dough pastries — crunchy and slightly sweet, often served with tea.
- Uuts: Boiled sheep’s back and tail fat — traditionally served during Tsagaan Sar (Lunar New Year).
- Milk-based foods: Yogurt, cream, butter, and cheese (made from cow, goat, or yak milk) form a large part of the Mongolian diet, especially in summer.
- Horse meat: Consumed more commonly in winter — rich in flavor and believed to provide strength and warmth.
- Vodka: Widely consumed at celebrations and ceremonies — often homemade and offered in toasts and rituals.
📅 Mongolia Calendar
- Mongolian Lunar New Year (Tsagaan Sar) (January–February): Family reunions, traditional food, and greetings in gers
- Ice Festival (March, Lake Khövsgöl): Horse sled races, ice sculpting, and winter sports on the frozen lake
- Gobi Camel Festival (March, South Gobi): Camel polo, herder races, and nomadic displays
- Thousand Camel Festival (March, Bulgan Sum, Gobi): Preserves camel culture with parades and races
- Camel Festival (March, Gobi Desert): Two-humped camels, races, polo matches, and nomadic games
- Golden Eagle Festival (March & October, Bayan-Ölgii): Kazakh hunters show off their skill and bond with eagles
- National Costume Festival (July, Ulaanbaatar): Parade of regional dress and performances
- Naadam Festival (July 11–13, Nationwide): Wrestling, horse racing, and archery—the “Three Manly Games” of Mongolia
- Yak Festival (August, Bat-Ulzii): Yak rodeos, races, and dairy contests in the mountains
- Gobi Desert Marathon & Ultralight Flight Races (Varies, Gobi): Adventurous annual events in the dunes