While Mongolia may not be on the top of many holiday destination lists, this rugged and serene country provides a travel experience brimming with natural splendour and pristinely preserved heritage. Known as the birthplace of the great Chinggis Khaan, Mongolia is characterised by its sprawling landscape, nomadic heritage and the golden dunes of the Gobi Desert. Being one of the most sparsely populated countries in the world, it’s a great place to take a break from modern life and experience rustic traditions that have existed for hundreds of years.
In this article, we discuss the 9 best things to do in Mongolia. From experiencing the country’s culture, exploring the scenery and immersing yourself in history, this list will provide some great inspiration for anyone thinking about visiting the spectacular steppe.
The undiscovered beauty of Mongolia is one of the biggest draws for tourists. It’s a country that offers boundless opportunities for adventure and one of the best things to do in Mongolia is experiencing the Nomadic lifestyle. From exploring plains on horseback to staying in a traditional ger tent, the unique and long-lived culture is a truly unique experience.
Mongolia has more horses than it does people, and the animals are an integral part of the nomadic lifestyle. One of the best ways to experience this unique way of life is by exploring the vast Mongolian steppes on horseback.
Horses have been a significant part of Mongolian culture for centuries. They are the primary mode of transportation and are essential for herding livestock, so you will find many operators and local guides offering horse riding trips across the country. You can opt for a short ride of a few hours or commit to a real adventure and trek across the bucolic countryside on a long horseback expedition over many days.
Mongolia offers numerous trekking routes, especially in areas like the Terelj National Park and the Orkhon Valley. These routes provide a combination of horse riding and trekking, allowing you to explore diverse landscapes on an unforgettable adventure.
To get more in touch with the local way of life, consider staying in a traditional ger (yurt) with a local family. These are round, portable tents made of a wooden frame and covered with felt and fabric. You can find countless districts on the outskirts of the capital Ulaanbaatar made up of these tents and even more can be seen within the sweeping Mongolian wilderness.
When you stay in a ger, you get the opportunity to experience an entirely different way of life. The interiors are typically quite rustic, with sleeping mats, some furniture and a central stove which keeps the ger warm even in the winter. It’s a comfortable and authentic experience that is made even more special by the unrivalled hospitality offered by your hosts.
It’s important to be respectful and follow certain etiquette when staying with a local family. Always ask before taking any photos of the camp, wait to be seated before engaging in conversation when invited in somewhere, and don’t leave behind any rubbish. Many ger camps follow eco-friendly practices out of respect for nature, so it is important not to damage or disrespect the campsite.
Buddhism has had a significant influence on Mongolian culture and many monasteries have been erected over centuries as places of worship. They also functioned as centres for education and art in the past, meaning they are some of the best places to visit in Mongolia to learn about its ancient history.
Erdene Zuu is one of the most breathtaking monasteries in Mongolia. Located in Kharkhorin, which was the ancient capital of the Mongol Empire, it is one of the oldest monasteries in the country and a great place to visit on your Mongolian adventure. The monastery has a rather turbulent history, going from one of the most important monasteries in Mongolia to being ravaged by Communist purges in 1937.
These days the monastery stands as a shadow of its former glory, but has returned to being an active place of worship since the 1990’s. Accessing the monastery grounds is free, but to enter the temples you will need to purchase a ticket. Visitors can explore the 108 stupas and the 3 temples which are dedicated to the stages of the Buddha’s life, providing an in-depth look into the ancient traditions of Mongolia.
The diverse landscapes of Mongolia are perfect for travellers who want to get in touch with nature and leave bustling modern life behind. With the Gobi Desert and Altai Mountains just waiting to be explored, there is so much fun to be had if you love the great outdoors.
In this section, we’ll discuss the natural attractions in Mongolia that are perfect for exploration and idyllic views.
Spanning both Mongolia and China, the Gobi Desert is one of the largest deserts in the world. It is one of the most dramatic natural landmarks in Mongolia and offers travellers the chance to explore vast sand dunes as well as see some of the unique animals in Mongolia. On your visit, you can spot wild Bactrian camels, ibex, snow leopards and numerous bird species which will delight animal enthusiasts.
Most excursions into the Gobi desert begin from Ulaanbaatar, but you can also access it from Dalanzadgad in the South Gobi Province. There are a variety of places in the desert that are top tourist attractions in Mongolia and are easily seen on a guided tour. It is recommended that you hire a local guide, as the terrain can be difficult and they will be able to ensure your safety.
The Khongor Sand Dunes are some of the tallest in the world and perhaps one of the most beautiful places in Mongolia. The unspoiled desert offers breathtaking views of the arid land and you can even scale the dunes for some outdoor adventures.
Equally, the Havtsgait Petroglyphs are another major attraction in the desert. Dotted around the Gobi desert, these ancient stone carvings offer a unique look into Mongolia’s past and provide some historical immersion among the desolate sands.
Khövsgöl Nuur, often referred to as Khövsgöl Lake, is one of the most spectacular natural attractions in Mongolia. It’s located in the northern part of the country, near the border with Russia. Due to the current political situation, it is advised that you take extra caution when visiting the lake, ideally with an experienced guide.
Khövsgöl Lake is the second-largest freshwater lake in Mongolia and is surrounded by the Khövsgöl Mountains, creating a stunning backdrop. The water in the lake is exceptionally clear and pure, making it a source of drinking water for the local communities. The lake also acts as a perfect mirror, reflecting the dramatic mountain ranges and is a visual masterpiece during sunrise and sunset.
At Khövsgöl Lake, travellers can enjoy a variety of activities like boating and fishing as well as take hiking trips along the verdant forests of the Khövsgöl Mountains. Summer is the best time to visit the lake as these activities will be in full swing and the weather is relatively mild. You will also find a variety of campsites and guesthouses around the lake, which can be an idyllic stop on a Mongolian road trip.
The Altai Mountains, located at the borders of Mongolia, China, Kazakhstan and Russia, offer pristine slopes, stunning landscapes and a chance to try skiing in a remote and culturally rich environment. You will find a variety of slopes on the mountains, ranging from gentle beginner-friendly runs to challenging descents perfect for experienced skiers.
The best place for skiing in Mongolia is Altai Tavan Bogd National Park. The park is home to the Altai Tavan Bogd massif, which includes the highest peak in Mongolia. Due to being on the border of so many countries, the park enjoys a diverse blend of cultures which adds so much charm to the skiing experience.
The best time to visit Mongolia for skiing is between November and April. However, conditions can vary significantly due to the altitude, so it is advisable to check with local guides and tour operators before embarking on any ski trips.
The nomadic lifestyle and gorgeous landscapes hold enough appeal to inspire any traveller. However, the beauty of visiting Mongolia is that it offers a genuine look into the lives of the locals without being overly touristy. For travellers who crave cultural immersion and seeing life from a different perspective, there are so many opportunities and experiences to be had in Mongolia.
One of the best ways to dive into Mongolian heritage is to attend one of the many vibrant festivals celebrated by locals. The most celebrated festival in Mongolia is Naadam, which takes place from July 11th to 13th. It is an annual event that showcases the country’s traditional sports: wrestling, horse racing and archery, which were crucial for survival in the ancient past.
Alongside the sporting events, the festival also showcases other unique traditions. Visitors will be blown away by the parade in Ulaanbaatar featuring participants dressed in vibrant traditional attire. Naadam ceremonies often include performances of traditional music, dance and poetry, adding to the festive atmosphere.
In addition to the sports events, Naadam festivals often feature cultural exhibitions, including traditional crafts, artwork and culinary delights. Attending this thrilling sporting showcase if you’re visiting during Naadam isone of the best things to do in Mongolia and will be the highlight of any traveller’s visit.
If you’re a traveller who enjoys trying local delicacies and beverages, then one of the best things to do in Mongolia is to try Airag. Also known as kumis, this traditional Mongolian beverage is made from fermented mare’s milk. It holds immense cultural significance in Mongolia and Central Asia and is often referred to as the ‘drink of the nomads.’
Airag has been a part of Mongolian nomadic culture for centuries and is often consumed during important celebrations and gatherings. Offering Airag to guests is a sign of hospitality in Mongolia. It’s customary for visitors to accept the offered drink as a gesture of respect for the host’s customs.
Airag has a slightly sour, tangy taste with a fizzy texture due to natural fermentation. It’s often served chilled and consumed in moderation due to its alcoholic content, which can vary but is typically around 2-3% alcohol by volume. The flavour might be an acquired taste for some, but others may find it a refreshing and insightful experience.
Ulaanbaatar, the capital of Mongolia, is home to several museums that provide fascinating insights into the country’s history, culture and natural heritage. You can explore many of them on a full-day tour which will take you all across the city.
The National Museum of Mongolia is the largest museum in the country, offering a comprehensive overview of Mongolia’s history, culture and art. It is one of the best things to do in Ulaanbaatar, as it offers a tremendous amount of context for Mongolia’s historical development. The museum’s exhibits cover a wide range of topics, including prehistoric artefacts, traditional costumes, religious artefacts and displays related to Mongolia’s political history, including the socialist period.
Another great place to visit in Mongolia is the Zanabazar Museum of Fine Arts. This museum is dedicated to the works of Zanabazar, a prominent Mongolian artist, sculptor and religious leader. The museum displays Zanabazar’s religious art, including intricately crafted sculptures, paintings, and religious artefacts. It also hosts temporary exhibitions of modern Mongolian artists.
Exploring the fascinating museums of Ulaanbaatar is one of the best things to do in Mongolia to learn more about the country’s complex history. It’s also a great opportunity to learn more about the culture before staying with a local family or visiting nomadic tribes, as it will provide a great deal of context for their lifestyle.
Mongolia offers a travel experience unlike any other, filled with rugged landscapes, nomadic heritage and a rich historical offering. Despite not being a mainstream tourist destination, Mongolia’s natural splendour, pristine traditions and cultural treasures make it a hidden gem for adventurous travellers.
In essence, a journey through Mongolia is a voyage back in time, allowing travellers to witness the enduring traditions of nomadic life and have an off-the-beaten-path adventure in an unspoiled setting.
Looking for more trip inspiration?Take a look at some of our other Asian travel guides, like Trekking in Ladakh and Everything You Need to Know About Hiking in Nepal.
Some of the links on this page are affiliate links, which means we can earn a small commission when our visitors click on them. This helps us to keep our content free and accessible for everyone, but you’ll never be charged for engaging with them.
© 2009-2025 – BACKPACKERBOY
WEBSITE DESIGN BY SEO TRAVEL
Some of the links on this page are affiliate links, which means we can earn a small commission when our visitors click on them. This helps us to keep our content free and accessible for everyone, but you’ll never be charged for engaging with them.
The 9 Best Things to Do in Johannesburg, South Africa 