Mongolia is a landlocked country in East Asia bordered by Russia to the north and China to the south. It is the world’s second-largest landlocked country after Kazakhstan. Mongolia is a popular tourist destination for those interested in history, culture, and the outdoors.
The capital city of Ulaanbaatar is home to several museums and historical monuments. Outside of the city, Mongolia’s vast steppe landscape offers opportunities for hiking, horseback riding, and camping.
If you’re planning a trip to Mongolia, read on for more information about what to expect.
Basic Information
When travelling to Mongolia, there are a few things you should know. The country is landlocked, so you’ll need to take a plane or train to get there.
The capital city is Ulaanbaatar, and the currency is the tugrik. If you’re coming from the US, you’ll need a visa to enter Mongolia. The climate in Mongolia can be quite extreme, so be sure to pack appropriate clothing.
Money and Costs
When traveling to Mongolia, it is important to be aware of the country’s currency and costs. The Mongolian national currency is the Tugrik (MNT), and travelers will need to convert their home currency into Tugriks in order to pay for goods and services.
The best way to do this is by using a currency converter or calculator, as exchange rates can vary.
Costs in Mongolia can be relatively low, especially if you are staying in a local guesthouse or hostel and eating at street food stalls.
However, if you are staying in a hotel or wish to eat at nicer restaurants, prices will be higher. It is always a good idea to budget for your trip and have an idea of how much you will need to spend each day.
Visas
There are several types of visas for Mongolia, and the requirements vary depending on the purpose of your travel.
Tourist visas are typically valid for 30 days, while business visas can be valid for up to 90 days. If you are planning to stay in Mongolia for an extended period of time, you will need to apply for a residence permit.
For most visitors, a visa can be obtained through a Mongolian embassy or consulate prior to arrival. However,
citizens of some countries (including the United States) can obtain a visa upon arrival at the airport in Ulaanbaatar. It is important to check with the Mongolian embassy or consulate responsible for your jurisdiction to determine the specific visa requirements and application procedures.
Getting There and Away
Mongolia is a landlocked country, so the only way to get there is by plane or train. The capital, Ulaanbaatar, has an airport with direct flights to major cities in Asia, Europe, and North America.
There are also international trains that run from Moscow and Beijing.
Once you’re in Mongolia, you can get around by car, bus, or train. The country has a good network of roads and railways, although travel times can be long due to the vast distances involved.
Car rental is available in most towns and cities, and it’s a great way to explore the country at your own pace.
Health and Safety
When traveling to Mongolia, it is important to be aware of the health and safety risks that are present in the country.
There are a number of diseases that are prevalent in Mongolia, such as hepatitis A and B, tuberculosis, and HIV/AIDS. It is important to get vaccinated against these diseases before traveling.
Mongolia also has a high rate of traffic accidents, so it is important to be cautious when driving or walking on the streets. crime rates are relatively low in Mongolia, but visitors should still take precautions against pickpockets and thieves.
If you are planning on trekking or hiking in Mongolia, it is important to be aware of the potential dangers of altitude sickness and hypothermia. Make sure to pack appropriate clothing and gear, and listen to the advice of your guides.
Time Zone and Communications
When traveling to Mongolia, it is important to be aware of the time zone difference. Mongolia is GMT+8, which means that it is eight hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time.
This can be a significant difference when coordinating travel plans and communicating with family and friends back home.
It is also important to be aware of the different communication infrastructures in Mongolia. The country has limited internet and cell phone coverage, so travelers should plan accordingly.
There are a few internet cafes in the capital city of Ulaanbaatar, but they can be expensive and slow. Satellite phones are a more reliable way to stay connected while in Mongolia.
Electricity and Water Supply
In Mongolia, the voltage is 220 V and the frequency is 50 Hz. The plugs are of type C and F.
The water in Ulaanbaatar, the capital, is safe to drink. Elsewhere in Mongolia, it’s advisable to boil water for at least 3 minutes before consuming it.
Food and Drink
When travelling to Mongolia, it is important to be aware of the local customs surrounding food and drink. In general, it is considered polite to accept any food or drink that is offered to you. However, there are some exceptions to this rule. For example, if you are offered fermented mare’s milk, it is acceptable to decline.
It is also important to be aware of how to properly drink Mongolian tea. When pouring tea for someone else, always pour from a height and use your right hand. It is considered rude to pour tea for yourself first.
When dining out in Mongolia, it is customary to leave a small tip (10-15%) for good service.
Public Holidays
Mongolia has a number of public holidays which may impact your travel plans. New Year’s Day (1 January), Naadam (11-13 July), and Christmas Day (25 December) are all public holidays.
If you’re planning to travel during these times, be sure to check with your airline or travel agent in advance.
There may also be other local holidays that are not listed here, so it’s always best to check with your Mongolian hosts or contacts before traveling.