Winter in Mongolia: weather, what to wear and what to do
Winter brings clear skies and snowy landscapes. Here is a guide to temperatures, clothing and winter-only experiences.
What to expect from the weather
Ulaanbaatar is one of the coldest capital cities in the world. From December to February, daytime highs are around minus 10 to minus 20 degrees Celsius, and mornings and nights can drop close to minus 30. The air is dry, so sunny days are common and snowfall is surprisingly light. Frozen steppes and lakes make for scenery you can only see in this season.
Clothing tips
- Layer up: thermal underwear, fleece, a down jacket and a windproof outer layer.
- Head, neck and hands: a hat, neck warmer and a thin glove under a thick glove.
- Feet: insulated boots and thick socks. Disposable heat packs help on long outdoor tours.
Depending on the tour, we may be able to lend winter clothing such as a deel (traditional coat), coat, hat and boots. Please ask us for details.
Winter-only experiences
- Dog sledding (for example in Terelj National Park)
- Horseback trekking across snowy steppe
- Relaxing in hot springs on the grasslands (Tsenkher Hot Springs)
- Frozen Lake Khuvsgul and meeting the reindeer herders (Tsaatan)
- New Year sunrise tours
- Tsagaan Sar, the Lunar New Year celebration, around February
Inside the ger it is warm from the stove, and the night sky is full of stars. If you are planning a winter trip, tell us your dates, group size and wishes.
Source: Shine Zuuch Travel (local expertise)
Related pages & tours
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