Mongolia has some of the most extreme weather in the world. There’s a big difference between its sweltering summers and brutally cold winters. That said, understanding the seasonal weather can help you decide when to visit and what to pack.
The country is landlocked, lying between Russia and China, with a mix of mountains, deserts, and grasslands called the steppes. This variety affects the weather across regions, so the conditions won’t always be the same everywhere. If you know what to expect, it makes planning much easier!
Mongolia’s Climate Overview
Mongolia has a continental climate. That means cold winters, warm or hot summers, and big temperature swings between day and night. Winters are long and harsh, sometimes dropping as low as -40°C (-40°F), while summers can get as hot as 40°C (104°F), especially in the southern Gobi desert.
Rainfall is low, especially in the desert areas. Most of the rain falls from June to August, but even then, it doesn’t rain much. Overall, weather in Mongolia is dry, with more sunshine than you might expect. Be prepared for sudden temperature drops at night, even in the summer, as Mongolia’s high altitude can bring drastic changes.
Now, let’s go through the weather month by month to help you decide when to visit.
Mongolia’s Weather in January
January is deep winter in Mongolia. It’s freezing, with temperatures often well below -20°C (-4°F). You’ll need to pack heavy winter gear like wool layers, a thick down jacket, and thermal underwear. The ground is covered in snow, and harsh winds can add to the chill factor.
Travel is more difficult in January because of icy roads and snow-covered paths, especially in remote areas. But if you’re ready for the extreme cold, you’ll find beautiful frozen landscapes and fewer tourists.
Mongolia’s Weather in February
February is just as cold as January. Temperatures still hover around -20°C (-4°F) or even lower in some areas. There’s little change in the weather this month, so make sure you bring more layers, warm socks, and winter boots.
Outdoor activities are possible if you dress warm enough, but the cold can be biting. On the upside, you’ll get clear skies and incredible photography opportunities with less snow than earlier in winter.
Mongolia’s Weather in March
March marks the beginning of spring, but it’s still pretty cold by most standards. Temperatures average around -10°C (14°F) to 0°C (32°F). You’ll still need your winter gear, though it might start to warm up slightly during the day.
The winds pick up this month. March is often windy, which can make the cold feel even worse. The snow starts to melt, making travel less challenging than in January or February, but large areas are still covered in snow.
Mongolia’s Weather in April
April starts to thaw out. Temperatures can range from 0°C (32°F) to 10°C (50°F), and it’s warmer during the daytime. You can start switching out heavier winter clothes for lighter jackets and sweaters, though it’s a good idea to pack multiple layers.
Winds are still strong, so bring wind-resistant clothing. By the end of the month, though, you can feel real spring weather emerging. It’s a transitional time with both sunny and snowy days.
Mongolia’s Weather in May
May is when the weather really starts to improve. Temperatures typically range from 10°C (50°F) to 20°C (68°F). Light jackets and long-sleeve shirts are a good idea, but keep a sweater on hand too since nights are still cold.
You’ll notice a lot more green this month, and it’s the perfect time to explore Mongolia’s landscapes without dealing with the intense cold or summer heat. May is generally dry, so your travel plans are less likely to be interrupted by rain.
Mongolia’s Weather in June
By June, summer arrives. Temperatures can climb to 25°C (77°F), especially in the Gobi Desert. The weather is comfortable for hiking, horseback riding, and seeing the countryside. It’s the ideal month if you want to explore national parks like Terelj or Hustai.
Be sure to pack lightweight clothes for the daytime, but you’ll still need warmer layers for the nights. Rain is more common in June than previous months, so bring a lightweight rain jacket to prepare for occasional showers.
Mongolia’s Weather in July
July is one of the warmest and busiest months in Mongolia. Temperatures can reach up to 30°C (86°F) or higher in the Gobi region. Up north, it’s cooler but still warm enough to enjoy outdoor activities.
The Naadam Festival, Mongolia’s most famous cultural event, takes place in July, making it a fun—but crowded—time to visit. You’ll want to pack light clothing, sunscreen, and a sunhat. Nights can still cool down, so pack a light jacket for evening wear.
Mongolia’s Weather in August
August continues the summer warmth. Temperatures stay around 20°C (68°F) to 30°C (86°F), depending on where you are. It’s comfortable for outdoor activities, but you can expect more rain, especially in the northern and central areas.
This is the wettest month in Mongolia, but “wet” here doesn’t mean torrential downpours. Showers are usually short, so a good rain jacket will keep you dry. The landscape is lush and green, perfect for trekking or exploring the grasslands.
Mongolia’s Weather in September
September is one of the best months to visit Mongolia. The weather is cool and mild, with daytime temperatures between 15°C (59°F) and 25°C (77°F). Nights cool off quickly, so layering is essential.
The fall colors start to appear, making the scenery even more beautiful. This is also the time when the tourist crowds thin out after summer. It’s a great month for exploring both the deserts and mountainous areas.
Mongolia’s Weather in October
October brings cool autumn weather. Temperatures start to dip, with daytime averages between 5°C (41°F) and 15°C (59°F). You’ll need heavier jackets, sweaters, and scarves since cold winds become more common.
It’s quieter this time of year, perfect if you want to explore without bumping into other tourists. October’s weather is generally dry and pleasant, though you’ll start to see occasional frosts at night.
Mongolia’s Weather in November
November marks the real start of winter. The temperatures drop quickly, ranging from -5°C (23°F) during the day to -15°C (5°F) or lower at night. It’s time to bring out your winter gear again.
While it’s not dragging-on freezing yet, you should expect snow in some regions. If you’re traveling this month, pack thermal layers, a thick coat, and winter boots to navigate the cold. November is also quieter for travelers, so expect fewer crowds.
Mongolia’s Weather in December
December is officially winter in Mongolia. The temperature often falls below -20°C (-4°F). It’s cold and crisp, with snow starting to cover much of the country, especially the northern areas.
Pack the warmest clothing you have: thermal layers, a down jacket, wool socks, gloves, and hats. Despite the cold, December offers a peaceful time to visit for snow lovers who want a quiet adventure.
Best Time to Visit Mongolia
The best time to visit Mongolia depends on what you want to do. If you don’t mind the cold and want to see Mongolia’s frozen beauty, visit between December and February. But for most travelers, the summer months—June to September—are ideal.
These months have warmer weather, perfect for hiking, horseback riding, and exploring the steppes. Just remember it’s peak season, so expect more tourists in July due to the Naadam Festival.
If you prefer fewer crowds and a cooler climate, May or September are great months. You’ll get all the beauty of the landscape without the extremes of summer or winter.
Packing Tips for Mongolia
Winter (December to February)
In winter, pack thermal underwear, a down jacket, wool sweaters, warm socks, and insulated boots. Make sure you have gloves, a scarf, and a hat to protect yourself from the cold winds. Expect snow and ice, so boots with good traction are essential.
Spring (March to May)
You’ll need layers in spring, given the fluctuating temperatures. Go for long-sleeve shirts, sweaters, and a warm jacket. Bring wind-resistant gear, especially in March and April. By May, you can dress lighter in the day but still prepare for cold nights.
Summer (June to August)
For summer, pack light, breathable clothes for the day and a jacket or sweater for the cooler evenings. Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat are important for sun protection, especially if you’re spending time in the desert. A rain jacket is handy, but you likely won’t need heavy rain gear.
Autumn (September to November)
Autumn can be unpredictable, so pack layers again. You’ll want cozy sweaters, a jacket, and scarves to keep out the chill. By October and November, bring out winter gear again since temperatures can quickly drop.
Whatever season you visit, be ready for strong winds, especially in open or mountainous regions. Mongolia’s weather can change quickly, so being prepared with adaptable clothing is key to enjoying your trip.
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