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Mongolia Travel Info & Advisor

Prepare for Your Mongolia Holiday

Are you ready for your Mongolia adventure? Mongolia boasts four distinct seasons, each with its unique charm. Depending on when you visit, there are various factors to consider before embarking on your journey. This guide provides essential information about Mongolian currency, banking, electricity, water quality in Ulaanbaatar, and shopping tips.

Important Information for Travelers

Public Holidays:

New Year: December 31 - January 1
Lunar New Year: Between January 21 and February 20
International Women’s Day: March 8
International Children's Day: June 1
National Holiday “Naadam”: July 10-15
Independence Day: December 29
Republic Day: November 26
Genghis Khan's Birthday: Likely November 01, 2024 (on the first day of winter based on the lunar calendar)

Currency:

Tugrug (MNT): Available in denominations of 1, 3, 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 500, 1000, 5000, 10000, and 20000.
Exchange Rate (as of August 5, 2023): US$1 = MNT 3380.75
Credit Cards: Accepted in major hotels, restaurants, and supermarkets in Ulaanbaatar.
ATMs: Widely available, including at the airport.

Credit cards are accepted at the biggest hotels, restaurants, and supermarkets and ATMs are everywhere in Ulaanbaatar, as long as you’ve arrived in Mongolia and use an ATM at the airport lobby. Make sure you bring USD banknotes printed after the 2000’s to ensure you don't have a problem at banks, and exchange centers in Mongolia.

Mongolian Banks:

Major banks in Ulaanbaatar accept US Dollars and provide services for credit card advances and traveler’s cheques. For better exchange rates, use licensed moneychangers.

Language:

Official Language: Mongolian (Khalkh dialect)
Script: Cyrillic alphabet with 35 letters

Electricity:
Voltage: 220V, 50Hz
Plugs: European-style 2-pin plugs
Reliability: Reliable in Ulaanbaatar, with occasional blackouts in the countryside.

Communications:
Country Code: 976
Area Code for Ulaanbaatar: 11
Mobile Operators: Mobicom (GSM), Skytel (CDMA), Unitel (GSM), G-Mobile (CDMA)
Internet and Phone: Modern but limited in rural areas. Hotels in Ulaanbaatar offer international dialing and fax services.

Postal Services:
Rates: Postcards MNT 1000, letters under 20 grams MNT 550, registered mail starts at MNT 950. Courier services like DHL, TNT, or UPS are available in Mongolia.

Shopping:
Souvenirs: Hand-woven carpets, leather goods, woolen clothing, cashmere, paintings, antiques, and traditional Mongolian attire.
Markets: Ulaanbaatar's Black Market is the best place in the city to buy souvenirs, outdoor gear, and more.

Water Quality:
Advice: Buy mineral water or boil tap water. Giardia and other water-borne diseases are a risk.

Clothing:
Seasonal Variation: Dress appropriately for Mongolia's four seasons. Traditional attire includes the deel, a long gown with a high collar, and distinctive hats and boots.

Travel Insurance:
Mongolia is generally safe, but travel insurance is recommended for your visit.