Geography
Climate
Fauna
Hotels
Restaurants and Food
Language
Post and Telecommunications
Money Exchange
Shopping
Entertainment
Ger Etiquette
ULAANBAATAR
VISA information
Top 10 reasons to visit Mongolia

Geography

Mongolia is located in the centre of the continent of Asia (between Russia and China ) and covers an area of 603, 899 sq. miles (1.566.5100 km² , about three times the size of France ), making it the 18th largest country in the World.

Mongolia lies between 87?44'E and 119?56'E Longitude and between 41? 35'-44'N and 52?09'N Latitude in the North of Central Asia. The average altitude is 1580m (5180ft) above sea level.

Mongolia is a large land-locked country about three times the size of France . It is situated in the north of the central Asia and covers over 1.5 million square km of territory. It is a country with steppe, desert and High Mountains . It is one of the highest countries in the world with an average elevation of 1580 meters. In the north of Mongolia there are three main mountain ranges - the Khangai Mountain Range, Khentii Mountain Range and the Khuvsgul Soyony Mountain Range. The Altai Mountains reach up to 4500m above sea level and have eternal snow covered peaks and glaciers. It lies from the west to the southeast of the country. The Altai Mountains are divided into the Mongol Altai Mountain and Gobi Altai Mountain . Much of the country is covered by grass and less than 10% of the land is forested. The southern third of the country is dominated by the Gobi Desert . Between the Altai and Khangai Mountains there is a vast steppe with low hills and desert which is called the North Altai Gobi. The part of the Gobi Desert from the south of the Altai Mountain to the Chinese border is called the South Altai Gobi and the Gobi which is in the east of Altai Mountains is called the East Gobi . The east of the country is called Dornodiin Steppe. In the east of the country there is a small mountain range called the Khyangan. The greatest river in the Steppe land is the Selenge River , which flows northwards to Lake Baikal . The extensive grasslands of the steppes, covering the center, eastern and western part of the land with a 360 degrees view are the hearts of Mongolia . The south is the domain of the Gobi (extending down to China ) with large sand dune areas and canyons in eastern Gobi , the dinosaur graveyard. Mongolia is dotted with 4,000 lakes (one of which is Lake Khuvsgul ? known as the dark blue pearl of Mongolia ) and rivers where fishing is abundant. Spectacular is the immensity of the landscape dominated by towering snow- capped mountains with glaciers.

Climate

Mongolia is a land of extremes. Known as the land of the blue sky, Mongolia is a remarkable sunny country, enjoying almost 300 sunny days a year. The country has the world?s most typical continental climate with extreme diurnal and annual ranges of temperature. The weather can be very changeable. Average temperatures in most of the country are below freezing point from November to March and close to it in April and October. Winter nights of minus 40 degrees Celsius occur most years. Summer extremes as high as 40 degrees Celsius in the Gobi or 35 degrees Celsius in Ulaanbaatar . Monthly temperature variations of plus 45 degrees Celsius to minus 55 degrees Celsius are not uncommon in many regions of Mongolia . Nomads times all their treks to coincide with the warmer summer months in Mongolia - from mid May to mid September. Average temperatures at this time range from 13 - 17c. There is a short rainy season from July to September with a maximum rainfall around 76mm in July. The weather can still be rather variable during the summer months. The days are generally warm and sunny and the nights cool. In spring, Mongolia can be very windy and the winters can be arctic. Please take warm and waterproof clothing especially if you are traveling in the mountains, as temperatures can drop considerably, even in the summer months. Also, be prepared for the cold nights. The Gobi usually has the hottest temperatures. Summer evenings can be cool because of Mongolia 's high altitude. The spring is a time of strong winds, especially difficult in the sandy areas of the Gobi .

Fauna

Mongolia has a very rich wild life.

The endless and intact expanses of Mongolia ?s land are not empty. They provide habitats for wildlife species such as the snow leopard, the Gobi bear, the wild camel, the wild mountain sheep, the wild ass, and insure the survival of half the country?s people, nomadic herdsmen moving by horse or camel in harmony with nature.

The country has now to face the challenge of opening its doors to the world while protecting its natural and cultural heritage. As it wilderness regions become more accessible, the Mongolian Government has undertaken a process of creating Protected Areas and National Parks.

To date there are 56 species of fish, 6 species of amphibians, 22 species of reptiles, 430 species of bird, 130 species of mammals which have been catalogued. There are some very rare wild animals such as Bactrian camel, Wild horse, Gobi bear, Saiga Antelope; Black tailed Gazelle, Argali-Wild Mountain Sheep and Snow Leopard. There is an abundance of bird life that can be seen including many interesting and rare birds such as Bearded Vulture, Imperial Eagle, Sacker Falcon and Altai Snow cock.

Hotels

The number and range of hotels in Ulaanbaatar are steadily increasing from the 5 star to the budget hostel.

Home stays are also becoming possible.

Restaurants and Food

Despite what you might hear about food supplies in Mongolia , it's now very simple to have a balanced diet, even if you're a vegetarian. If you're intending to eat out in Ulaanbaatar, there are a large number of restaurants serving quality, Chinese, Indian, Korean, Japanese, Italian, English, French, Russian, Latin American and of course Mongolian cuisine.

There are also a lot of supermarkets and markets selling both Mongolian and imported goods from China , Russia , East Asia and Europe . The domestic meat and dairy products are good value and considerably tastier than meat you may find at home. The one used by most of the expatriates living in the country is the Mercury Market situated just a couple of hundred meters west of the Circus.

In the countryside things are a bit different. Although some of the larger Aimag centers will have supplies suitable for foreigners, the Sums will have little more than biscuits and chocolate. As you move out of the city, you also lose the quality in restaurant food. In most cases only Mongolian-style food will be available.

The extreme climate here means that many Mongolians, especially those living in the countryside have to eat a lot of protein and fat to keep them warm and healthy. Visiting herders in the countryside will inevitably mean that you will be offered a number of meat and dairy products. Even if some of them look unappetizing, you will please your host greatly if only you try a little.

Language

The official and spoken language of the country is Mongolian. Many people have Russian as their second language as they were taught this at school. An increasing number of people are now also speaking English and German.

Post and Telecommunications

There is a central post office in Ulaanbaatar where you can buy stamps, envelopes and postcards. The post is reasonably reliable although it may take some time to reach its destination. Telecommunications outside Ulaanbaatar are possible. You are able to make international calls and faxes in UB and to use the local Internet provider.

Money Exchange

The official currency of Mongolia is the togrig. Foreign currency can be exchanged at the airport on arrival, local banks or at the State Department Store, which is in the center of town. We recommend carrying a certain amount of US dollar cash /small banknote will be need especially during your tour in the countryside/and travelers checks. Please ask your bank to provide dollar currency dated 1990 or later, as currency dated earlier may be rejected by currency exchange places or changed at low rates. Most hotels, restaurants and tourist shops now accept international credit cards or US$. Local shops and bazaars accept only togrigs. Most hotel gift shops and tourist shops still accept US dollars.

Shopping

The State Department Store is the main shop in town for everything from food to clothes and Mongolian souvenirs. There are also many smaller shops and local markets. The three main hotels, the Bayan Gol, the Ulaanbaatar and the Chengis Khan all sell a range of foodstuffs, gifts and souvenirs. Interesting art and gifts can be bought at the Art and Craft Shops near the Ulaanbaatar Hotel.

Entertainment

There is an increasing variety of entertainment in Ulaanbaatar . There are a number of concerts and cultural performances, from Opera to traditional Mongolian throat singing performances that can be seen at the Opera Theater or the Drama Theater.

Ger Etiquette

The Mongolian ger is the traditional home of the nomadic people and has been since the days of Chengis Khan. Please remember that you are a guest in someone's home and as such behave with the appropriate consideration and respect to your hosts. The Mongolian ger is the focal point for the nomadic people's family and social life. Any guest who cares to pay the family a visit will be greeted warmly and immediately offered a cup of tea. Guests should enter the ger, without knocking, and step over the threshold with their right foot. Guests are traditionally sat on the left hand side of the ger, while the host will sit at the top of the ger. Often the family would like to place their guests in the honored position at the top of the ger. Once seated you will be offered tea by your host, accept the tea with you right hand, with you left hand placed under the elbow of your right arm to support it. As a sign of respect always make sure your sleeves are rolled down if you have a long sleeved shirt on. After tea, food will often be offered. This is usually placed in large bowls in the middle of the ger and guests are requested to help themselves. If it is a special occasion home made vodka or 'airag' (fermented mare's milk) will be offered. Usually the host sitting in the middle of the ger and passing one cup out to his guests does this. The guest should drink from the cup and then return it to the host. It is appropriate if you place your ring finger of your right hand in the bowl before drinking and three times, offering the vodka, symbolically, to the gods, by sprinkling it in the air. If you would like to walk around the ger please do so in a clock-wise direction and never across the middle of the ger. Please never step over food or someone's feet. It is acceptable to take photos in and out of a ger but ask your host before doing so.

As you will inevitably be visiting local nomadic families in the country it is acceptable and desirable to offer them small gifts in return for their hospitality. The following items would make suitable gifts - small toys for the children, sweets, hair ribbons, snuff, cigarette papers, tobacco, fishing wire and hooks, small bottles of perfume or face cream and sewing kits. Please note that Nomads never encourages people to use the nomadic hospitality as their only source of food and accommodation and rely on this source. You will visit nomadic people because of their innate hospitality and it is polite to offer some gift to show your gratitude in return.

ULAANBAATAR

Ancient capital of Mongolia was Khara Khorum, in Orkhon valley. The new capital was laid down in the Valley of Tuul River between four majestic mountains; Ulaanbaatar opens the gates to Mongolia . Ulaanbaatar , historically known as Urga, was established in 1639 as nomadic encampment, which shifted from place to place until it settled in its present location in 1778. In 1924 the city, was renamed Ulaanbaatar in honour of Sukhbaatar , Mongolia ?s national hero. Today Ulaanbaatar- city of 800 000, reflects both aspects of present day Mongolian society: mixture of nomadic culture and modern civilization. Excellent hotels and dinning experiences from around a world are all part of Ulaanbaatar ?s distinctive appeal. The Winter Palace Museum of Bogd Khan, the Choijin Lama Temple which is one of masterpieces of Mongolian architecture of the end of the XIX century, the Nature and History museum with rare pare ontological findings of the ancient land and fossilized dinosaur skeletons. Ulaanbaatar is Mongolia ?s cultural, political and economic center, and also starting point for Mongolian tourism. Nowhere in the world is there a city of such rich contrasts. In the uniqueness, which is Ulaanbaatar , ancient nomadic culture peacefully coexists with the dynamic changes of modern society. On the streets of this capital city, you will pass nomads dressed in traditional dels as well as elegantly attired business people rushing to the offices.

VISA information.

For all information related to consular matters (e.g.: visas, citizenship, etc.), please contact in person by telephone or E-mail the nearest diplomatic or consular mission of Mongolia . ( Mongolian diplomatic and consular missions abroad )

Foreign nationals visiting Mongolia are required to obtain visas at a Mongolian diplomatic or consular mission unless it has been regulated by specific bilateral conventions Fees charged for Mongolian visaThe following materials are required to obtain Mongolian visa:

1. Valid passport
2. One passport sized photo
3. Application form ( Click here to download the Application Form / Application Form-Tourist )
4. - Either an invitation of the receiving entity (state, government, non-governmental organization, business entity) or an official request of the sending country and the organization.
- or, for tourists wishing to stay over 30 days up to 90 days, a letter of invitation from a travel agency of Mongolia
- or, if you are traveling on a personal invitation of a citizen of Mongolia, an invitation approved by the Office of Immigration, Naturalization and Foreign Citizens of Mongolia, and applicant's written statement concerning his/her financial credibility to cover his/her stay in Mongolia.
- or, for those passing Mongolia in transit, onward ticket and visa for next destination are required.

A) Single entry-exit visa - US$25+3; for urgent service (within a working day) US$50+3; this kind of visa is valid for three months from the date of issuing.
B) Multiple entry-exit visa valid for six months - US$65+3; for urgent service (within a working day) US$130+3,
C) Multiple entry-exit visa valid for one year - US$130+3; for urgent service (within a working day) US$ 260+3
D) Visa extension valid for one week - US$15; for urgent service (within a working day) US$30; US$2 per a day exceeding a week.

List of countries and regions with non-visa
regime for all types of passport holders

1. Hong Kong - 14 days for all type of passports. There is no visa fee for diplomatic and official passports. Ordinary passport holders pay visa fee if they travel for more than 14 days.
2. Israel - 30 days for all type of passports
3. Kazakhstan - 90 days for all type of passports
4. Malaysia - 1 month for all type of passports
5. Philippines - 21 days for all type of passports
6. Singapore - 14 days for all type of passports

List of countries with non-visa arrangement
for diplomatic and official passport holders

a)
1. Bulgaria - no visa for diplomatic and official passport holders. Ordinary passport holders need visa
2. Czech - no visa for diplomatic and official passport holders within 90 days. Ordinary passport holders need visa
3. Hungary - no visa for diplomatic and official passport holders within 30 days. Ordinary passport holders need visa
4. Mexico - no visa for diplomatic and official passport holders within 90 days. Ordinary passport holders need visa
5. Republic of Korea - no visa for diplomatic and official passport holders within 30 days. Ordinary passport holders need visa
6. Romania - no visa for diplomatic and official passport holders. Ordinary passport holders need visa
7. Russia - no visa for diplomatic and official passports within 90 days, ordinary passport holders need visa
8. Slovakia - no visa for diplomatic and official passport holders within 90 days. Ordinary passport holders need visa
9. Thailand - no visa for diplomatic and official passport holders within 30 days. Ordinary passport holders need visa
10. Turkey - no visa for diplomatic and official passport holders within 30 days. Ordinary passport holders need visa
11. Vietnam - no visa for diplomatic and official passport holders within 90 days. Ordinary passport holders need visa and no visa fee

b)
1. China - no visa for all type of passport holders. Private travellers need visa
2. Laos - no visa for diplomatic, official and ordinary passport holders within 90 days. Private travellers need visa
3. DPRK - no visa for diplomatic, official and ordinary passport holders. Private travellers need visa
4. Yugoslavia - no visa within 90 days for diplomatic, official passport holders. Ordinary passport holders with the consulate mark indicating the business purpose
5. Cuba - no visa for diplomatic, official and ordinary passport holders within 3 0 days. Private travellers need visa

List of countries without visa fee

1. India - All type of passports need a visa, no visa applications, photos and fees required
2. USA- no visa for all type of passport holders, including A, H, J visas within 90 days.
Visit more than 90 days need visa, service charge - $45, no visa fee required

Mongolia has consular conventions with the following countries:

Afghanistan, Bulgaria, China, Cuba, Czech Republic, DPRK, Hungary, Laos, Romania, Russia, United Kingdom, USA, Vietnam, Yugoslavia.

Mongolia has treaties on mutual legal assistance with the following countries:

Bulgaria , China , Cuba , Czech, DPRK, France , Germany , Hungary , India , Kazakhstan , Kyrgyzstan , Poland , ROK, Romania , Russia , Turkey , Ukraine , Yugoslavia , Vietnam

Travel visas are issued by the Mongolian Embassy and Consulates in the following locations:

	Last undiscovered land
	Historical culture
	Adventurous opportunities
	No fences
	Famous Gobi desert
	Buddhist temple
	Stable political situations Friendly open people
	Great value
	No police problem