The best time to visit Mongolia is during the Mongolian summer, from mid-June to the last week of August. This is the best time of the year to visit Mongolia in terms of weather. You’ll enjoy sunny days throughout the country, and there’s enough rainfall to make the steppes lush and green. Both June and September are very pleasant times to visit Mongolia. September, in particular, offers an enjoyable, colorful experience with comfortable temperatures that are neither too hot nor too cold. During this time, nomads have plenty of dairy products and are busy processing milk in preparation for winter.
In terms of specific months:
July is the best time to witness the Mongolia Naadam Festival.
The best season for a Gobi Desert tour is from June to September, with October being the shoulder season.
July to August is the ideal season for traveling to Northern Mongolia and taking a tour of Khuvsgul Lake, while September marks the beginning of the shoulder season.
The first week of October is a great opportunity to attend the Golden Eagle Festival in Altai, Western Mongolia.
February is the best time to experience Mongolia’s winter season.
Mongolia’s Seasons:
Summer (June to August): Peak tourist season with warm weather and lush, green landscapes. Ideal for outdoor activities like hiking, horseback riding, and camping. Don’t miss the Naadam Festival in July.
Autumn (September to October): Pleasant weather with changing colors, perfect for trekking and photography.
Winter (November to February): Extremely cold, great for experiencing a true Mongolian winter with activities like ice fishing, dog sledding, and winter festivals. Be prepared for subzero temperatures, especially in Ulaanbaatar.
Spring (March to May): Transitional period with milder temperatures, but it can still be chilly, especially in March. Good for birdwatching as landscapes start to turn green, though road conditions may be challenging due to lingering winter effects.