Mongolia
Easily purchase a local SIM card upon arrival for affordable data and calls.
Wi-Fi is widely available in urban centers, and mobile data coverage extends to provincial capitals.
Mongolian (Khalkha dialect) is the official language. English is common in tourism.
For global roaming, consider an eSIM from Airalo or a portable Wi-Fi device from Solis Wi-Fi. Learn basic phrases with Rosetta Stone. For airport lounge access, explore Priority Pass. For flight compensation, Compensair assists with claims.
Understand typical operating hours and public holidays to plan your activities effectively.
Monday-Friday, 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM. Closed weekends.
Daily, 10:00 AM - 9:00 PM (Ulaanbaatar).
Varies, generally 11:00 AM - 10:00 PM.
Banks operate weekdays, with ATMs widely available for 24/7 access.
Many tourist facilities outside Ulaanbaatar operate seasonally.
Public holidays, especially Tsagaan Sar and Naadam, significantly impact business operations. Always verify opening hours before your visit.
Observing local customs makes for positive interactions during your visit.
A handshake is common. Modest dress is advised for religious sites.
Accepting hospitality is polite. Tipping is appreciated in tourist-facing businesses.
Ask for permission before photographing individuals, especially nomads.
Respect traditional ger rules and social interactions.
A little research into local customs and a few basic Mongolian phrases are highly valued by locals.
Infrastructure limitations exist for travelers with mobility needs.
Ulaanbaatar's infrastructure is not widely accessible for mobility issues.
Newer buildings may have accessibility, but public transport is generally not equipped.
Specific services for travelers with visual or hearing impairments are very limited across Mongolia.
Contact specialized tour operators or travel agencies for tailored advice.
For visitors with mobility challenges, contacting specialized tour operators in advance is best for tailored advice and arrangements. Infrastructure in Mongolia is not fully accessible.
