Mongolia / ᠮᠤᠩᠭᠤᠯ ᠤᠯᠤᠰ / Монгол Улс – Let’s explore here
What’s it like in Mongolia?
Mongolia is a very large, stunningly beautiful, landlocked country in central Asia. It’s about 6½ times the size of the UK. To the north lie vast mountain ranges, whilst in the south, the Gobi Desert dominates. In between are huge grassy plains. The highest point is Khüiten Peak, in the far west of the country, at 14,291 ft (4,356 m) above sea level.
It has a very long and rich history (think Genghis Khan), and today almost a third of its people remain nomadic. It shares its borders with China and Russia. Note that it does not share a border with Kazakhstan, despite being only 23 miles (37 km) away.
The population of Mongolia is around 3½ million people (2023), about 1½ million of whom live in the metropolitan area of the capital, Ulaanbaatar. Due to it’s size, it is the least densely populated country in the world. It relies heavily on its minerals and metals reserves.
A bit about the history of Mongolia
Early History and Formation of the Mongol People
Mongolia’s history dates back to ancient times, with the area inhabited by nomadic tribes. These tribes lived in the vast steppes of central Asia and had a society based on herding, hunting and warfare. The Mongols were part of a larger group of central Asian tribes, many of whom spoke related languages and shared common cultural traits.
The Rise of Genghis Khan
The most significant event in Mongolian history came in the early 13th century with the rise of Genghis Khan (born Temüjin). Uniting the disparate Mongol tribes, Genghis Khan founded the Mongol Empire in 1206. His military genius and leadership led to the creation of the largest contiguous land empire in history, stretching from China to eastern Europe. The empire facilitated trade across the Silk Road, promoted cultural exchange, and contributed to the spread of innovations such as gunpowder and printing.
Division of the Mongol Empire and the Yuan Dynasty
After Genghis Khan’s death in 1227, the Mongol Empire was divided among his descendants. The Yuan Dynasty, established by his grandson Kublai Khan, ruled China and much of Mongolia. The Mongols exerted significant influence over China, but over time, the empire began to fragment, with various khanates (regional Mongol states) emerging across the former empire. Mongolia itself was ruled by a series of local khans and dynasties, with the most notable being the Northern Yuan Dynasty, which continued to maintain Mongol power in the region after the fall of the Yuan Dynasty in China.
Chinese and Russian Influence
By the 17th century, Mongolia fell under the influence of the Qing Dynasty, which had taken control of China. The Qing Empire extended its control over Mongolia, dividing the region into Inner Mongolia (under Chinese control) and Outer Mongolia (nominally autonomous, but heavily influenced by China). The Mongols were subjected to Chinese rule, though their traditional way of life and religious practices (mainly Tibetan Buddhism) were preserved. In the 19th century, Russia began to assert influence over Outer Mongolia, particularly through political and military alliances with the Mongols, while the Qing Dynasty’s control over the region weakened.
The Struggle for Independence
The early 20th century saw the collapse of the Qing Dynasty and the Russian Empire. In 1911, the Chinese Revolution led to the overthrow of the Qing, and Mongolia declared its independence in 1911 with the support of the Russian Empire. However, China did not recognise Mongolia’s independence, and the region was in a state of flux, facing political struggles and foreign interventions. In 1921, with support from the Soviet Union, Mongolia achieved full independence, and the People’s Republic of Mongolia was declared. The country adopted a socialist government, aligned with the Soviet model, and was officially recognised as a sovereign state in 1945.
Soviet Era and Communism
Under Soviet influence, Mongolia underwent significant political, economic and social changes. The Mongolian government nationalised industry and agriculture, and a one-party system was established, dominated by the Mongolian People’s Revolutionary Party (MPRP). The country became heavily reliant on Soviet support, particularly in defence and economic matters. The Mongolian government also cracked down on religious practices, particularly Buddhism, and instituted extensive political purges.
Transition to Democracy
In the late 1980s and early 1990s, as the Soviet Union began to collapse, Mongolia also experienced significant political changes. In 1990, peaceful protests led to the end of communist rule and the adoption of a multi party democratic system. The first democratic elections were held in 1992, and the country transitioned to a market economy. Mongolia’s transition to democracy was accompanied by economic reforms, including privatisation, but the country faced significant challenges, such as inflation, unemployment and poverty.
Modern Mongolia
Today, Mongolia has experienced periods of economic growth, particularly due to its rich natural resources, including coal, copper and gold. Mongolia has become an important player in the region, maintaining good relations with both Russia and China, as well as with other countries such as the United States and Japan. However, Mongolia faces ongoing challenges, including issues related to corruption, environmental concerns, and the need for further economic diversification. The country continues to balance its rich cultural heritage, including its traditional nomadic lifestyle, with the pressures of modernisation and globalisation.
Mongolia road trip
We haven’t finished our planning for our road trip through Mongolia yet. When we do though, we’ll post it here, and in the blog.
Hopefully our journey will improve our knowledge of this intriguing and beautiful country, and enable us to meet some interesting people. We’ll be updating this page at that time – don’t forget to check back 🙂
Map of Mongolia
What’s it like to drive in Mongolia?
They drive on the right hand side of the road in Mongolia. The main roads are quite good, however there are many unsurfaced dirt tracks. Driving standards are quite poor however.
Do you require an international driving permit in Mongolia?
We’ve created a dedicated page to driving abroad, which answers this question, and more, which you might find helpful.
Can you use your UK driving license when driving through Mongolia?
We’ve created a dedicated page to driving abroad, which answers this question, and more, which you might find helpful.
Do I need a carnet de passages to drive in Mongolia?
We’ve created a dedicated page to driving abroad, which answers this question, and more, which you might find helpful.
What currency do they use in Mongolia?
In Mongolia they use the Mongolian Tögrög. Cash is widely used. The use of credit / debit cards is not widely accepted. Travellers cheques are not accepted. There are many ATMs in cities and towns throughout the country.
You should make yourself aware of the amount that your bank charges you for using credit and debit cards abroad. Often credit cards are cheaper for purchasing items directly, and for withdrawing cash from ATMs.
What language do they speak in Mongolia?
They speak Mongolian in Mongolia. Russian is also widely spoken, in particular amongst the older generations. English is also widely spoken, in particular amongst the younger generations.
What time zone is Mongolia in?
Remember, when you’re planning your next trip to take a look at what time zone it’s in.
Do I need a visa to visit Mongolia?
We’ve created a dedicated, more comprehensive page on visas, which you should find helpful. Check it out!
Is wild camping legal in Mongolia?
Yes, wild camping is fine in Mongolia.
What plug / socket type do they use in Mongolia?
In Mongolia they use plug / socket types C and E.
Health issues in Mongolia
Is it safe to drink water in Mongolia?
No, it is not safe to drink tap water in Mongolia. Bottled water is readily available across the country.
What vaccinations are required for Mongolia?
This NHS website is kept up to date with all relevant information on vaccinations in Mongolia.
Phones in Mongolia
What is the country calling code for Mongolia?
The country calling code for Mongolia is +976
What are the emergency phone numbers in Mongolia?
- The emergency number for police in Mongolia is: 105 / 102
- In Mongolia, the emergency number for ambulance is: 105 / 103
- The emergency number for fire in Mongolia is: 105 / 101
If you’ve got some useful info that you’d like to share, let us know!
And don’t forget to check out all the other pictures!