Mongolia is a landlocked country situated between Russia and China. It is the 18th largest country in the world and has a population of over 3 million people.
The country is known for its nomadic culture, as well as its beautiful landscapes and unique wildlife.
If you are planning on travelling to Mongolia, here is everything you need to know, from visas to vaccinations and more.
Flights to Mongolia
Flights to Mongolia are few and far between. The best way to get to Mongolia is to take a flight from Moscow.
There are plenty of flights from Moscow to Ulaanbaatar, the capital of Mongolia. The flight takes about six hours. You can also fly into other Mongolian cities such as Erdenet, Mörön, Darkhan, and Khovd.
Overland travel to Mongolia
Mongolia is a landlocked country located between China and Russia. It is a vast, sparsely populated country with a continental climate.
The best time to visit Mongolia is during the summer months of June, July and August when the weather is warm and dry.
The easiest way to get to Mongolia is by flying into the capital city of Ulaanbaatar. There are direct flights available from Beijing,
Moscow, Seoul and Tokyo. Alternatively, you can take a train from Beijing or Moscow which takes around 48 hours.
Once in Ulaanbaatar, there are plenty of options for overland travel around the country. You can hire a car and driver, or join an organised tour group.
The most popular way to travel to Mongolia is by staying in a ger (traditional Mongolian yurt). Ger camps are located all around the country and offer an authentic life experience in the Mongolian steppe.
Rail travel to Mongolia
Mongolia is a vast, untamed country in central Asia. It’s known for its nomadic culture and ancient history.
Mongolia is bordered by Russia to the north and China to the south. And while it may seem like a remote destination, it’s actually quite easy to travel to Mongolia by rail.
The Trans-Mongolian Railway is the most popular way to travel to Mongolia by train.
This railway runs from Moscow all the way to Beijing, with stops in Ulaanbaatar (the capital of Mongolia) along the way.
The journey takes around 7 days, and it’s a great way to see some of the stunning scenery of Siberia and Inner Mongolia.
If you’re coming from Beijing, you can also take the Trans-Manchurian Railway.
This railway crosses into Mongolia from China at Erlianhot and then heads north towards Ulaanbaatar. The journey takes around 24 hours, so it’s a great option if you’re short on time.
Once you’re in Ulaanbaatar, there are plenty of things to see and do. Make sure you check out Gandantegchinlen Monastery, one of the largest Buddhist monasteries in Asia. Or explore the Gobi Desert,
home to some of Mongolia’s most iconic wildlife including camels and Bactrian deer. And no visit to Mongolia would be complete without spending some time with a nomadic family – you can learn about
Visas for Mongolia
Assuming you are not a citizen of Mongolia, you will need to obtain a visa in order to travel there. The type of visa you will need depends on the purpose and duration of your stay.
For business or official purposes, you will need to apply for a business visa. This type of visa is valid for up to 90 days and allows multiple entries into the country.
You will need to provide proof of your business activities in Mongolia, as well as an invitation from a Mongolian company or organization.
If you are planning to visit Mongolia for tourism purposes, you can apply for a tourist visa.
This type of visa is valid for up to 30 days and allows for single or double entry into the country. You will need to provide proof of your hotel booking or other accommodation, as well as your travel itinerary.
If you are planning to stay in Mongolia for more than 30 days, you will need to apply for a long-stay visa.
This type of visa is valid for up to 180 days and allows multiple entries into the country. You will need to provide proof of your accommodation, as well as evidence of sufficient financial resources to support your stay.
Insurance for travel to Mongolia
If you’re planning on travelling to Mongolia, it’s a good idea to get travel insurance. There are a few things to consider when choosing a policy, such as what activities you’ll be doing and how long you’ll be staying.
Some policies will cover you for medical expenses, lost or stolen belongings, and cancellations or disruptions to your travel plans.
It’s important to read the fine print of any policy before you purchase it, so that you know exactly what’s covered.
There are a few reputable companies that offer travel insurance for Mongolia, so take some time to compare policies and prices before making a decision.
What to pack for a trip to Mongolia
When packing for a trip to Mongolia, it is important to keep in mind the climate and terrain of the country.
Mongolia is a landlocked country with a continental climate, meaning it experiences hot summers and cold winters. The average temperature in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia’s capital city, ranges from −4.5°C (23.9°F) in January to 22.4°C (72.3°F) in July.
Mongolia is mostly covered in steppe and desert landscapes. The Gobi Desert, one of the largest deserts in Asia, covers much of southern Mongolia.
In the north, meanwhile, is the massive Mongolian steppe – a grassland that stretches as far as the eye can see.
Because of this varied terrain, it is important to pack both light and heavy clothing items when travelling to Mongolia.
Some essential items to pack for a trip to Mongolia include:
-A good pair of walking shoes: Whether you’re exploring the bustling streets of Ulaanbaatar or trekking through the Gobi Desert, a good pair of walking shoes is key. Make sure they are comfortable and broken in before your trip!
– layers of clothing: As mentioned above, Mongolia experiences extreme temperature changes throughout the year. Layers are key – you can always take them off if you get too warm, but you’ll be glad you have them if you get cold!
Mongolian customs and etiquette
Mongolians are very hospitable people and have strong customs and etiquette. It is important to be respectful of their culture when travelling to Mongolia. Here are some tips:
-Gift-giving is an integral part of Mongolian culture. If you are invited into a home, it is customary to bring a small gift, such as tea, alcohol or sweets.
-It is considered polite to remove your shoes when entering a home or temple.
-Be aware of how you dress. Avoid wearing anything that is too revealing or offensive.
Avoid using your chopsticks to point at things or people when dining. Stick them in your rice bowl when you’re not using them. And never leave chopsticks sticking upright in a bowl – this is considered bad luck.
Conclusion
Mongolia is a land of great natural beauty and fascinating history, making it the perfect destination for those seeking adventure.
The best way to travel to Mongolia is by using a combination of modes of transport, such as flights, trains, and buses.
This will allow you to see the country in all its glory and get off the beaten track.
