Sotravel

Mongolia, with its vast landscapes, ancient nomadic culture, and sense of unspoiled wilderness, is a destination that offers a unique contrast to the urban life in Singapore. If you’re someone who loves to explore destinations off the beaten path, there are countless reasons why Mongolia deserves a top spot on your travel bucket list. Here’s a travel guide designed for you, highlighting why visiting Mongolia should be your next big adventure!

Unique Experiences in Mongolia – Beyond Anything in Singapore

Mongolia is a place like no other, offering a wide-open wilderness that is hard to find anywhere else in the world. Unlike our bustling cityscape, Mongolia’s landscapes are vast, untouched, and brimming with a sense of adventure. Imagine miles of grasslands stretching under an endless sky, rugged mountain ranges, and the iconic Gobi Desert – it’s easy to see why travel to Mongolia is becoming increasingly popular among city dwellers.

The country is also home to a fascinating nomadic culture. We might be used to modern comforts, but there’s something humbling about learning how Mongolian nomads live sustainably in their gers (yurts) in the harsh climate, moving seasonally with their livestock. Spending time with these hospitable nomads and experiencing their traditions firsthand is an eye-opening experience. For anyone interested in understanding different ways of life, Mongolia’s rich heritage is both inspiring and humbling.

Getting There – Flights from Singapore to Mongolia

While it may seem remote, getting to Mongolia from Singapore is quite feasible. Most flights from Singapore to Ulaanbaatar, the capital, have one stopover, typically in Seoul, Beijing, or Hong Kong, depending on your airline. The flight time, including layovers, is around 10 to 14 hours, with a budget of SGD 800 to 1,200 for a round trip.

For the best deals, it’s a good idea to book flights in advance. Planning early for this trip might also help with budgeting, especially since flights to Mongolia can vary in price depending on the season. Typically, the cheapest flights are available during the off-peak season, from late October to early April, excluding the New Year period. On the other hand, flights tend to be more expensive during the peak travel season, which runs from June to early September, when the weather is ideal for outdoor activities and major events.

Adventure Activities – For Thrill-Seeking Singaporeans

For many of us who love outdoor thrills, Mongolia offers adventure activities that are hard to find in other destinations. For those who enjoy trekking, Terelj National Park is an excellent choice. Known for its dramatic granite formations, lush meadows, and serene rivers, it offers easy to moderate hikes that allow you to fully immerse yourself in Mongolia’s natural beauty. The park is perfect for those looking to explore rugged landscapes without venturing too far off the beaten path. With trails that vary in difficulty, you can challenge yourself while enjoying everything from lush valleys to rocky terrains. For a more remote experience, the Altai and Khentii Mountains also provide stunning trekking options, though they tend to be more challenging and require a higher level of fitness.

If desert exploration excites you, the Gobi Desert is an absolute must. You can explore this famous desert on camelback, by 4×4, or even on horseback – an experience that will make you feel like a real explorer. Singaporeans who enjoy a bit of adrenaline can also try eagle hunting demonstrations in the west of Mongolia. Here, Kazakh hunters showcase their skill in an ancient tradition of hunting with trained eagles.

The country’s extreme weather adds to the thrill, especially if you visit during winter when temperatures can drop as low as -30°C. For those of you who don’t mind some cold-weather adventures, Mongolia’s winter landscapes are breathtaking and present another unique way to experience the country.

Cultural Highlights – Ger Stays and Traditional Mongolian Life

One of the top cultural experiences Mongolia has to offer is the chance to stay in a traditional ger. These cozy, portable homes are designed to withstand Mongolia’s harsh climates, making them perfect for both winter and summer stays. You can even try your hand at some daily nomadic tasks like milking yaks or learning how to set up a ger – experiences that provide a true insight into the self-sustained lifestyle of the Mongolian people. For those seeking a more comfortable stay, many tourist ger camps offer a unique blend of traditional accommodations with modern amenities, allowing visitors to experience authentic Mongolian culture without sacrificing comfort.

Another cultural highlight includes visiting local festivals such as the Naadam Festival, held in July, which showcases Mongolian sports like wrestling, archery, and horse racing. Naadam is an exciting opportunity to see Mongolians proudly celebrate their heritage.

Practical Tips – What Singaporeans Need to Know Before Visiting Mongolia

• Weather: Mongolia has a dry, continental climate with short, warm summers and long, cold winters. In summer, average temperatures range from 20°C to 30°C during the day but can drop to 5°C to 10°C at night. In winter, the temperatures can drop significantly, averaging between -15°C and -25°C, with some areas reaching as low as -35°C. For those of us used to Singapore’s warmth, this can be quite a shift! But don’t worry—it’s easy to prepare. Layering up with warm, high-quality thermal wear will keep you comfortable and cozy, even in the coldest weather.
• Visas: Singaporeans do need a visa to enter Mongolia. A tourist visa typically allows for a 30-day stay, which can be obtained at the Mongolian embassy. Make sure to apply a few weeks in advance of your trip.
• Budget Considerations: Mongolia can be quite affordable once you’re there, especially for those who enjoy a more rustic experience. Prices for a stay in a tourist ger camp generally range from SGD 70 to SGD 150 per night, depending on the camp and its amenities. Meals in local eateries or smaller restaurants typically cost around SGD 7 to SGD 12. Joining group tours can also help spread the costs of transportation and activities, making them more affordable. Our 7D6N winter trip to Mongolia starts at SGD 1,418!
• Packing Essentials: When packing for Mongolia, it’s important to prepare for varying weather conditions. In summer, temperatures can be warm during the day but cool in the evenings, so packing layers is key. For winter, the cold can be quite intense, so be sure to bring high-quality thermal clothing. In both seasons, comfortable walking boots and a sturdy backpack are essential for exploring the diverse terrain. Don’t forget sunscreen and lip balm to protect from the dry air, and keep your skin moisturized as the high elevation and dry conditions can be tough on it. With the right gear, you’ll be ready to enjoy Mongolia’s stunning landscapes, no matter the season!

We may live in a fast-paced, modern environment, but that only makes a trip to Mongolia even more refreshing. It’s an opportunity to disconnect, experience the beauty of untouched nature, and learn from a culture vastly different from our own. For anyone seeking something outside the typical tourist spots, Mongolia is an adventure waiting to be discovered.

In many ways, traveling to Mongolia from Singapore feels like stepping into another world, and the memories you make will last a lifetime. So if you’re looking for a unique experience that combines nature, culture, and adventure, make sure Mongolia is on your travel bucket list!

Join us on an adventure to Mongolia!