Best Time to Visit Mongolia

The best season to visit Mongolia is summer (between June to August) when the weather is warm and the captivating landscapes of the country are in full bloom. This is also the perfect time to explore the open steppes, join the Naadam Festival revelry and immerse yourself in the vibrant nomadic culture. However, as this is the peak time for travelling the costs during this time are slightly higher.

For a quieter travelling experience, consider the shoulder season - May and September. In May there are fewer tourists and the weather is mild whereas in September the colours of autumn begin to come alive across the countryside. It is important to note, however, that late autumn or winter means colder temperatures and potentially challenging travels in remote towns of Mongolia.

In essence, the country promises a diverse range of experiences throughout the year. So, depending on the experience you seek, you can plan your journey.

Peak Season in Mongolia

The months between June to August are the peak seasons in Mongolia. For travellers who intend to engage in outdoor activities such as horseback riding and trekking, this is the best time to travel to Mongolia.

For culture enthusiasts, the Naadam Festival is a unique experience. The long daylight hours ensure that you can explore the outdoors for longer. However, as this is the peak season it would mean more crowds and higher travel costs, especially around popular events.

Shoulder Season in Mongolia

For those who intend to experience quieter travel, the months of May and September are equally great choices. In May the first signs of spring start to show as the landscapes bloom with wildflowers.

Conversely, in September the country is enveloped in autumn colours and the temperatures begin to drop. However, travellers during this time must prepare themselves for unpredictable weather, which can vary from day to day.

Low Season in Mongolia

From October through April, Mongolia takes on a different view. Covered in snow, the country becomes active with unique experiences such as winter festivities, dog sledding, stargazing and staying in traditional ger camps with locals.

During winter months, however, the frosty temperatures and shorter daylight hours limit accessibility to remote regions. Several tourist activities may also be unavailable during this time.

Ultimately, the best time to visit Mongolia depends on the kind of experience you want to have in the country. However, the weather is a prominent factor to consider in your decision-making.

Let us dive into a detailed month-by-month guide to visiting Mongolia and understand the unique attractions and experiences one can explore through the seasons:

January in Mongolia

Blanketed in snow, January is when Mongolia is deep into winter. The breathtaking landscape is covered in snow as far as the eye can see. For travellers seeking an unparalleled winter adventure, January in Mongolia is when you can experience traditional winter festivals, witness the quiet and intimate lives of nomadic herders, and stargaze in the remarkably clear winter skies.

-Average Temperature: -20°C to -10°C

-Best Places to Visit:

Culture enthusiasts looking for the best time to visit Ulaanbaatar, in January you can enjoy winter festivities and experience the traditional culture of Mongolia.

Terelj National Park is known for its unique rock formations and travellers will be charmed by the snow-covered landscapes and activities like dog sledding.

Witness the amazing crystal ice at the Khuvsgul Lake that transforms into a frozen beauty and enjoy winter sports.

-Things to Experience:

Perhaps, one of the best ways to discover Mongolia in the winter is through dog sledding across frozen lakes and rivers promising an incredible adventure.

Staying in a traditional ger (yurt) and experiencing nomadic winter life in an intimate and authentic manner.

Discover the Tsagaan Sar Festival preparations (Mongolian Lunar New Year) which is a joyous occasion for the country’s nomadic herd.

February in Mongolia

While still covered in wintry snow and low temperatures, February is also the time of the Tsagaan Sar, which is an important cultural celebration. Travellers can become a part of the revelry and immerse themselves in a festive atmosphere, with traditional feasts, games and ceremonies.

-Average Temperature: -18°C to -8°C

-Best Places to Visit:

This is the best time to visit Ulaanbaatar and enjoy the Tsagaan Sar celebrations.

The largest lake in Mongolia, the Khuvsgul Lake, is great for ice festivals and winter sports in February.

An important and fascinating area in Mongolian history, Kharkhorin is wonderful to experience some cultural and historical insights.

-Things to Experience:

Enjoy the Tsagaan Sar celebrations with traditional food and customs.

Discover the tranquil experience of ice fishing and enjoy skating on frozen lakes.

Learn about the authentic winter lifestyle of Mongolia by visiting remote herder families.

March in Mongolia

Despite lingering winter - particularly in the northern regions, March marks the beginning of spring in Mongolia. As the weather slightly warms up and the days become longer, this is the best time to indulge in some cultural exploration, visit historical sites and experience the end of winter traditions.

-Average Temperature: -10°C to 2°C

-Best Places to Visit:

Ulaanbaatar, for exploring the museums and unique cultural sites.

The Gobi Desert, for a serene and quiet spring landscape with fewer tourists around.

Khuvsgul Lake, for fascinating cultural experiences and to witness the early signs of thawing.

-Things to Experience:

Explore Ulaanbaatar’s museums to discover the rare and unique Mongolian heritage which is centuries old. Explore the monasteries that boast a unique blend of traditional Mongolian and Tibetan architectural styles.

Visiting the Gobi Desert as it begins to warm up.

Joining the Nauryz festival celebrations which are an important cultural part of the Kazakh minority hailing from the western regions.

April in Mongolia

By April, Mongolia sheds away the signs of winter and the temperatures start to warm to welcome spring. This is the best time to visit Mongolia and explore its vast open spaces before the summer crowds arrive. At this time the landscape continues thawing with flowing rivers and flowers that start to bloom.

-Average Temperature: -5°C to 10°C

-Best Places to Visit:

Ulaanbaatar has plenty to offer for people of all ages and varying interests. Travellers can shop at the bustling Naran Tuul Market, hike up the Bogd Khan mountain for a splendid view, visit the National Museum and partake in cultural events.

Visit Orkhon Valley which is the cradle of the nomadic way of life in Mongolia and pay a visit to the historical and natural sites of the region.

Terelj National Park in April promises picturesque landscapes, and the opportunity to enjoy early spring hikes and horseback riding.

-Things to Experience:

Enjoying the local festivals and cultural events that enliven the land.

Hiking in national parks with fewer crowds around and exploring the beauty of the landscape as the snow melts.

Visiting historical sites in the Orkhon Valley and witnessing the tranquil way of life of the nomads of Mongolia.

May in Mongolia

This time of the year, Mongolia truly begins to bloom as the temperatures warm up and the landscape is bustling with life. Although May is the start of the tourist season, there are still relatively fewer tourists during this time so one can enjoy outdoor activities like trekking, horseback riding and visiting national parks.

-Average Temperature: 5°C to 20°C

-Best Places to Visit:

The Gobi Desert is blooming with wildflowers, promising a memorable experience of Mongolia’s natural beauty. Tourists can also enjoy unique camel treks.

Khuvsgul Lake remains frozen even in May but the ‘Blue Pearl’ still ensures you enjoy pristine nature and wildlife.

Explore the rocky hills and grasslands of the Hustai National Park - home to Mongolian gazelle, Mongolian lark and a reintroduced population of Przewalksi's horse.

-Things to Experience:

Experience horseback riding across the free and open steppes promising a lush view

Trekking in the Gobi Desert or Altai Mountains for an unforgettable view away from the bustle of city life.

Engage in birdwatching at the Khuvsgul Lake and surrounding areas.

June in Mongolia

This is the beginning of the tourist season in Mongolia when the country is in full bloom, making it an ideal time to explore the vast steppes, mountains and deserts. This is also the time of Mongolia’s most famous event - the Naadam Festival, which celebrates traditional sports such as wrestling, horse racing and archery.

-Average Temperature: 10°C to 25°C

-Best Places to Visit:

Visit Ulaanbaatar to witness the unique Naadam Festival.

Enjoy camel riding in the Gobi Desert and experience the serenity of desert landscapes.

Visit the Altai Tavan Bogd National Park to enjoy outdoor activities like trekking and other cultural experiences.

-Things to Experience:

Attending the Naadam Festival and watching traditional sports.

Exploring the classic dunes and unique rock formations in the Gobi Desert.

Explore the outdoors with activities like trekking in the Altai Mountains and visiting ancient petroglyphs - which is a disappearing cultural tradition.

July in Mongolia

With the promise of warm weather and vibrant landscapes, Mongolia in July is the most popular month for tourists - and for good reason. This is the best time of the year to enjoy pleasant weather, immerse in festive revelry and witness as the countryside comes alive with activities.

-Average Temperature: 15°C to 30°C

-Best Places to Visit:

Choose from a range of outdoor activities to engage in at Khuvsgul Lake and enjoy its pristine waters.

Culture enthusiasts can head to the Orkhon Valley for historical sites and cultural experiences.

For a more urban experience, explore Ulaanbaatar and take part in the festive celebrations.

-Things to Experience:

Discover the nomadic way of life by spending time with the locals.

Enjoy boating and hiking around Khuvsgul Lake.

Pay a visit to the historical sites and ancient monasteries in the Orkhon Valley.

August in Mongolia

The month of harvest and celebration, August is another month that is popular among tourists. This is when the landscapes are lush and green and the diverse regions of Mongolia are open for exploration.

-Average Temperature: 10°C to 25°C

-Best Places to Visit:

Explore the various museums of Ulaanbaatar to learn more about Mongolian Buddhism, witness a captivating display of Mongolia through the years or immerse yourself in the artwork of Mongolia’s most prolific artists.

The Gobi Desert has captivated explorers, palaeontologists, travellers and photographers with its serene beauty. Enjoy camel treks and discover dinosaur fossils.

For a more active outdoor experience, trek in the Altai Tavan Bogd National Park.

-Things to Experience:

Camel trekking in the Gobi Desert.

Hiking and trekking in the Altai Mountains.

Participating in local festivals to experience the vibrant Mongolian culture.

September in Mongolia

By this time, the tourist season begins to wind down and the country starts to welcome the onset of autumn. This is the best month to visit Mongolia for hiking and other outdoor activities with fewer tourists around.

-Average Temperature: 5°C to 15°C

-Best Places to Visit:

Witness Mongolia’s landscapes in their most vibrant phase by visiting the Khuvsgul Lake for autumn colours and wildlife.

Enjoy the scenic vistas by hiking at the Terelj National Park.

Indulge in the cultural and historic offerings of Orkhon Valley.

-Things to Experience:

Explore the beauty of Mongolia through hikes in vibrant forests adorned with fall foliage.

Learn about the authentic nomadic culture by visiting local families as they prepare for winter.

Engage in outdoor activities by visiting Mongolia’s national parks and seeing the captivating natural wonders.

October in Mongolia

Adorning red, orange and golden hues, Mongolia in October is a wondrous beauty. By this time, you begin to witness the first signs of winter, yet, the weather is not harsh so you can still explore the outdoors comfortably.

-Average Temperature: 0°C to 10°C

-Best Places to Visit:

From the newly opened Chinggis Khaan Museum to old favourites like the National Museum of Mongolia Ulaanbaatar is a haven for history enthusiasts.

Witness the tranquil silence of the Gobi Desert as the temperature begins to cool.

Visit the Orkhon Valley for unique autumn scenery and memorable cultural sites.

-Things to Experience:

Hiking through the autumn landscapes and witnessing the golden hues of the enchanting trails.

Exploring ancient monasteries and historical sites to learn more about Mongolia’s history and culture.

Visiting the countryside to capture the vibrant fall colours.

November in Mongolia

In November, Mongolia begins to don the winter coat and the country experiences its first snowfalls of the year. This is an ideal time to visit Mongolia for travellers who intend to experience winter activities like ice fishing and seek a more authentic cultural experience away from the crowds.

-Average Temperature: -10°C to -5°C

-Best Places to Visit:

Visit Ulaanbaatar as it gears up for winter preparations and experience the culture of Mongolia in an intimate manner.

Be captivated by the snowy landscapes of the Khuvsgul Lake and engage in some early winter activities.

For a snowy, memorable hike, head to the Terelj National Park.

-Things to Experience:

Enjoy the peace of Mongolia with unique experiences like ice fishing on frozen lakes.

Witness the winter preparations by visiting nomadic families.

Exploring the quiet, snow-covered landscapes of national parks.

December in Mongolia

As the temperatures become frosty and snow blankets the country, Mongolia transforms into a winter wonderland in December. Travellers who can brave the cold can enjoy winter sports, engage in cultural exploration, and experience traditional Mongolian hospitality in a ger (yurt).

-Average Temperature: -20°C to -10°C

-Best Places to Visit:

Engage in the vibrant winter festivals of Ulaanbaatar and explore its cultural sites.

Witness the quiet beauty of Khuvsgul Lake and enjoy winter sports.

For a challenging adventure, consider trekking in the Altai Mountains.

-Things to Experience:

Enjoy the snowy landscapes of Mongolia with dog sledding or snowmobiling.

Experience the authentic nomadic life by staying in a traditional ger.

Joining the revelry of the locals by celebrating winter festivals and cultural events.

An important aspect of planning your trip to Mongolia is to invest in a comprehensive travel insurance policy that accommodates your itinerary. When travelling abroad, travel health insurance is an essential requirement to cover medical emergencies, which can come in handy when exploring the remote regions of Mongolia where healthcare facilities might be sparse and expensive.

With our TATA AIG international travel insurance, travellers can secure themselves against unforeseeable events such as trip cancellations, loss of passport, lost luggage, etc. Whether you are trekking in the mountains or exploring the vast steppes, our international travel insurance ensures a safe and worry-free experience.

The best time to visit Mongolia depends on the kind of experience you wish to have and your preferred activities. Whether it is the blooming landscapes of summer or the peaceful adventure of winter, Mongolia has something to offer all year round. However, before you plan your trip, it is important to secure your journey with overseas travel insurance.

When is the best time to visit Mongolia?

The best time to visit Mongolia depends on the kind of experience you wish to have. For warm weather and festivals consider visiting between June to August whereas for milder weather and fewer crowds, consider travelling between May and September.

What should I pack for my trip to Mongolia?

Some key travel essentials include sunscreen, warm clothing, identity proofs, local currency, essential medicines and travel health insurance.