The Reasons 2023 is Ideal for a Trip to Mongolia

Mongolia, with its vast expanses and limited summer season, has often been overlooked by travelers. However, as the country makes strides to enhance its tourism by easing entry conditions and upgrading infrastructure, 2023 emerges as an opportune time for a visit. Here are ten compelling reasons why travelers should consider planning their long-awaited trip to Mongolia:

1. Growing Visa-Free List: In line with the Mongolian government’s declaration of 2023-2025 as the “Years to Visit Mongolia,” citizens from an additional 34 countries can now enjoy visa-free access to the country until the end of 2025. This includes several European nations, Australia, and New Zealand, bringing the total number of visa-exempt countries to 61.
2. New $650 Million Airport: The recently inaugurated Chinggis Khaan International Airport, with its enhanced capacity and infrastructure, is a significant boost to Mongolia’s tourism. The airport’s opening facilitates increased domestic and budget flights, contributing to the country’s tourism growth.
3. Modern Chinggis Khaan Museum: The newly opened Chinggis Khaan Museum offers a captivating journey through Mongolia’s history with over 10,000 artifacts spanning 2,000 years. With eight floors of exhibition space, including temporary and permanent exhibits, it provides a fresh perspective on Mongolian heritage.
4. Emergence of Music Festivals: Mongolia is becoming a surprising destination for music festivals, including Playtime, Spirit of Gobi, INTRO Electronic Music Festival, and Kharkhorum 360 Visual Art & Music Experience. These festivals bring together international and local artists, making Mongolia an underrated hub for festival enthusiasts.
5. Centennial Celebration of Naadam: The annual Naadam festival, rooted in Genghis Khan’s traditions, celebrated its centennial in 2023. This iconic event, featuring horse racing, wrestling, and archery, has evolved into a grand celebration held in Ulaanbaatar, offering a unique cultural experience.
6. Mongolian Archery Resurgence: Mounted archery is experiencing a revival in Mongolia, with institutions like Namnaa Academy teaching the traditional art. Visitors can witness weekly shows in the summer months and even participate in day-long training sessions to try their hand at this ancient sport.
7. Revival of Mongolian Calligraphy: The Erdenesiin Khuree Mongolian Calligraphy Center in Karakorum provides a platform to learn Mongol bichig, the traditional Mongolian script. Master calligraphist Tamir Samandbadraa Purev shares insights into this cultural heritage, fostering a resurgence of Mongolian calligraphy.
8. Nomadic Off-Road’s Eagle Hunter Tour: The release of Husqvarna’s Norden 901 Expedition motorbike complements Nomadic Off-Road’s Eagle Hunter Tour, offering a thrilling adventure from Ulaanbaatar to Bayan-Ulgii. The tour combines speed, motorbikes, and encounters with Mongolia’s renowned eagle hunters.
9. Winter Tours and Dogsledding Adventures: Winter in Mongolia presents a unique experience with fewer crowds, lower hotel rates, and the chance to witness frozen Lake Khuvsgul. Companies like Wind of Mongolia offer dogsledding tours, allowing participants to explore the frozen lake and engage with nomadic families along the journey.
10. Yeruu Lodge’s Scandinavian Design: Yeruu Lodge, set to open in April 2023, brings Scandinavian minimalism to Mongolia. Founded by Norwegian Eirik Gulsrud Johnsen, the lodge offers a serene retreat with eco-friendly practices, off-grid operations, and a range of activities for nature enthusiasts.

As Mongolia opens its doors wider to international visitors and invests in tourism infrastructure, 2023 emerges as an exciting year for those seeking a unique and culturally rich travel experience.