Winter in Mongolia runs from November to March and is very cold, dry and sunny. Ulaanbaatar averages −15.5 °C by day and −25.6 °C at night in January (1991–2020 averages), yet the skies are often clear and the snow is light and powdery. Few tourists come, so winter trips feel private: frozen lakes, nomad families in their winter camps, and festivals you share mostly with locals.
Quick answer: Come for the Khövsgöl Ice Festival in early March, Tsagaan Sar in January or February, or a quiet snowy escape to Terelj. Pack a down jacket, thermal layers, insulated boots and spare batteries, and plan little time in Ulaanbaatar, where winter air quality is poor.
Winter temperatures
| Month | High / low (Ulaanbaatar) |
|---|---|
| November | −4.8 / −15.1 °C |
| December | −13.7 / −22.9 °C |
| January | −15.5 / −25.6 °C |
| February | −9.4 / −21.7 °C |
| March | −0.2 / −12.6 °C |
The countryside can be colder than the city, especially at night. Wind makes a big difference: a still, sunny −20 °C day feels far milder than a windy −10 °C.
Winter festivals and experiences
- Khövsgöl Ice Festival (early March): horse-sledge races, ice sculptures and games on frozen Lake Khövsgöl (Blue Pearl Ice Festival).
- Tsagaan Sar (January or February): the Lunar New Year, when families visit each other, eat buuz dumplings and greet their elders. Many businesses close for several days.
- Camel festivals in the Gobi: in late winter, Gobi herders hold camel races and competitions. Dates change every year.
- Winter nomad life: families move to sheltered winter camps, and visiting them shows how they and their herds survive the cold.
- Snowy Terelj: a day trip or overnight stay in Terelj with quiet walks in the snow.
Air quality in Ulaanbaatar
Winter is when Ulaanbaatar's air pollution is at its worst, mostly from coal burned for heating in the ger districts (National Geographic). Most winter trips spend only a night or two in the city. If you have asthma or a heart or lung condition, talk to your doctor before travelling and bring a good mask.
Winter packing list
- Down jacket rated for −25 °C or colder
- Thermal base layers, top and bottom
- Insulated winter boots with good grip
- Warm hat, a neck gaiter, mittens and thin liner gloves
- A power bank and spare batteries kept in an inside pocket (see our camera and power guide)
- Lip balm and moisturiser for the dry air
- Sunglasses for snow glare
Frequently asked questions
Is it worth visiting Mongolia in winter?
Yes, if you like cold and quiet. You get clear skies, snow, festivals and very few tourists, but you need proper winter clothing and a flexible plan.
How cold is Mongolia in winter?
Ulaanbaatar averages −15.5 °C by day and −25.6 °C at night in January. The countryside can be colder at night.
When is the Khövsgöl Ice Festival?
It is held in early March on frozen Lake Khövsgöl. Exact dates are set each year.
Sources
- Wikipedia: Ulaanbaatar climate (1991–2020 normals)
- Wikipedia: Blue Pearl Ice Festival
- National Geographic: Mongolia air pollution
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Thinking about a winter trip?
Tell us your dates. We will plan a route with heated stays, experienced winter drivers and the festivals that fit.
Message us on WhatsAppOr email mugi@emongolia.eu with your travel month and planned route.