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Ulan Bator Travel Checklist

Ulan Bator Travel Checklist

Travel Planning Schedule

A structured approach to your planning can help organize your departure.

Timeline for Your Trip to Mongolia

Follow these steps in the months, weeks, and days leading up before you depart.

1

+ Months Before

Passport & Visa

Confirm passport validity (6+ months). Begin visa application if needed.

Flights & Tours

Reserve international flights to ULN. Reserve major tours and festival tickets.

Major Events

Book Naadam Festival tickets or popular tours well in advance.

2

-2 Months Before

Accommodation & Insurance

Book hotels, hostels, guesthouses. Purchase comprehensive travel insurance.

Health Checks

Consult doctor for vaccinations (Hepatitis, Typhoid, Rabies).

Driving & Research

Obtain an International Driving Permit if at the rear of the wheel. Research attractions and dining.

3

-2 Weeks Before

Packing & Documents

Start packing (refer to guide). Make digital and physical copies of documents.

Financial Readiness

Notify banks of travel dates. Obtain some Mongolian Tugrik (MNT).

Digital Setup & Home

Download travel apps (offline maps). Arrange for pet diligence and mail collection.

Advance Bookings

Secure major components of your trip well ahead of time.

Booking Recommendations

  • Flights to Chinggis Khaan International Airport (ULN).
  • Multi-day tours like Gobi Desert or Khuvsgul Lake.
  • Tickets for special happenings, e.g., Naadam Festival.
  • Popular hotels or ger camps during peak season.

Pre-Trip Knowledge

Learning about Mongolia prior to your trip can enrich your experience.

Research Suggestions

  • Research Mongolian history and cultural traditions.
  • Watch documentaries or films related to Mongolia.
  • Learn some basic Mongolian phrases.
  • Explore reputable travel blogs for practical tips.

Home Management

Complete these steps at home before you leave for a worry-no-cost journey.

Property Security

  • Lock all doors and windows securely.
  • Set home alarms when accessible.
  • Arrange for mail collection.
  • Secure pet care arrangements.

Financial & Contact

  • Ensure all bills are paid or set up for auto-payment.
  • Inform a trusted contact of your itinerary.
  • Leave emergency contact information with them.
  • Provide your international contact number.

Digital Readiness

  • Download offline maps for Ulaanbaatar.
  • Download Mongolian language pack for offline use.
  • Install ride-sharing apps (UBCab, InDriver).
  • Have digital copies of all documents stored securely.

Final Checks

Double-check your passport validity and visa requirements just before departure.

Arrival Essentials

These immediate actions once you land assist a seamless transition into your Mongolian journey.

Airport Procedures

  • 1
    Immigration:

    Proceed through passport control at ULN. Have passport and visa.

  • 2
    Baggage:

    Collect your checked baggage from the carousel.

  • 3
    SIM Card:

    Purchase a local SIM card (Unitel or Mobicom) at the airport.

Orientation & Transport

  • Currency Exchange:

    Find exchange counter or ATM for initial Tugrik.

  • Transport:

    Follow your planned transport to accommodation (pre-booked, taxi, app).

  • Local Area:

    Take time to orient yourself around your lodging.

Initial Setup & Orientation

Immediate Connectivity

Purchase a local SIM card (Unitel or Mobicom) at the airport.

This offers immediate connectivity for navigation and apps.

First Funds

Exchange a small amount of Mongolian Tugrik (MNT) upon arrival.

Or withdraw from an ATM at the airport for initial expenses.

Local Orientation

Discover close-by ATMs, convenience stores, and public transportation.

Become acquainted with your immediate neighborhood and landmarks.

Hydration Reminder

Always buy bottled water immediately upon arrival, as tap water in Mongolia is not potable.

Concluding Your Journey

These last steps ensure a smooth departure out of Ulaanbaatar.

Souvenirs & Shipping

  1. Purchase last-minute souvenirs, especially cashmere.
  2. Inquire about international sending from retailers for large items.
  3. Consider weight limits for checked baggage.
  4. Keep receipts for high-value purchases.
  5. Mongolia does not operate a Value Added Tax (VAT) refund system for tourists.

Departure Timing

  1. Allow 2-3 hours for international flights at ULN.
  2. For domestic flights, 1-1.5 hours prior is generally enough.
  3. Confirm your flight or train details beforehand.
  4. Plan transport to the airport or station.
  5. Consider possible traffic in Ulaanbaatar.

Departure Timing Details

Allocate adequate time for check-in, immigration, and security at the airport.

Airport Arrival

  • International Flights:2-3 hours before departure
  • Domestic Flights:1-1.5 hours before departure
  • Traffic Consideration:Factor in Ulaanbaatar traffic
  • Peak Season:Consider extra time during busy periods

Final Checks

  • Confirm flight details or train schedule.
  • Make certain passport and all travel documents are ready.
  • Arrange transport to the airport or railway station.
  • Verify any baggage restrictions or allowances.

Wishing You a Smooth Journey

May your departure be as calm as the arrival.

We hope you take wonderful memories of Mongolia home with you.

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