The numbers
Ulaanbaatar in January averages minus 21 Celsius with clear skies. The coldest months are January and February. From November to March the sun shines roughly 280 hours per month, more than most European summer cities. This is not damp grey cold. It is dry, sharp, glittering cold.
Why go
Empty trails. One fifth of summer tourist numbers. The Khuvsgol Ice Festival in early March, where ice sculptures are carved, reindeer herders bring their reindeer to race on the ice, and horse sleighs fly along a mile-long ice road. Eagle hunters in full winter kit. Frozen waterfalls you can walk behind. Hot springs that steam in sub-zero air.
Ulaanbaatar in winter
The city is alive. Theatres, museums, restaurants all operate normally. Our Ulaanbaatar Noir itinerary pairs gallery visits with live throat singing concerts, under-the-radar hot pot dinners, and a private tour of the Gandan monastery. Four nights is perfect.
The golden rule of winter Mongolia
Layers. Three layers is not enough. Five is right. Merino base, fleece mid, wool sweater, down parka, shell. Wool socks, insulated boots with felt liners. Liner gloves plus mittens. Balaclava. We provide the down parka and boots on request.
Our winter itineraries
Khuvsgol Ice Festival, 7 nights, from 3,400 USD. Eagle Hunters in Winter, 10 nights, from 4,200 USD. Ulaanbaatar Noir, 4 nights, from 1,800 USD. All use our winterised lodges and 4WD vehicles with Arctic tyre packages.
The people are warmer
This is the cliche but it is accurate. Winter Mongolia forces hospitality. Every ger door opens easily, every host is warming tea, every child you meet is delighted to see you. It is the most human time to travel here.
