Visiting Mongolia in January: Winter Adventure Guide

January is the coldest month in Mongolia, but it’s also one of the most magical times to visit. The country transforms into a sparkling winter wonderland with snow-covered landscapes, frozen rivers, icy lakes, and waterfalls. Nomadic herders remain in their winter gers, offering travelers a rare glimpse into traditional life.

While travel is limited in January, a few adventurous travelers still choose a Mongolia winter tour in January to enjoy peaceful landscapes, cultural experiences, and unique winter activities.

If you’re planning a trip, you may be asking:

• What is the weather in Mongolia in January?

• Where should I go in Mongolia in January?

• What should I wear in Mongolia in January?

This guide covers everything you need to know for traveling to Mongolia in January.

Mongolia Weather in January

January is the coldest month in Mongolia. Despite the extreme cold, Mongolia’s dry climate and sunny skies make winter an excellent time for photography and outdoor winter activities.

Best Winter Activities in January

If you’re planning a Mongolia winter tourin January, here are main experiences to include in your itinerary:

• 🐕 Dog sledding on frozen rivers

• 🐎 Horseback riding through snowy valleys

• 🎿 Skiing at local ski resorts near Ulaanbaatar

• 🏡 Staying with nomadic families, sometimes seeing newborn animals

• 🦅 Meeting Eagle Hunters in Western Mongolia

• 🦌 Visiting Reindeer People in Northern Mongolia

• 🐫 Camel trekking on the snow-covered Gobi dunes

Where to Go in January in Mongolia

Central Mongolia

Central Mongolia offers several winter attractions:

• Terelj National Park – ideal for dog sledding and scenic walks

• Genghis Khan Statue Complex – panoramic views of snow-covered steppe

• Hustai National Park – spot wild horses and deer in their natural habitat

• Mini Gobi Desert – enjoy camel riding and visit nomadic families

• Karakorum Village – explore Erdenezuu Monastery and the Kharkhorin Museum

• Tsenkher Hot Springs – relax in natural hot springs

Accommodation: Most tourist ger camps are closed. Options include local hotels, guesthouses, or nomadic family homestays.

Southern Mongolia (Gobi Desert)

The Gobi Desert in January experiences slightly milder winter temperatures. Highlights include:

• Khongor Sand Dunes covered in snow

• Flaming Cliffs

• Frozen Mukhar Shivert Waterfall

• Tsagaan Suvarga (White Cliffs)

• Baga Gazriin Chuluu rock formations

Accommodation: All nearby tourist ger camps are closed, so your choices are hotels, guesthouses, or family homestays.

Northern & Western Mongolia

These regions are the coldest in January, but adventurous travelers can experience:

• Jargant Living River – a winter wonderland scene

• Reindeer Tribes in Northern Mongolia

• Eagle Hunting Tours in Western Mongolia

Accommodation: Tourist camps are closed, leaving local hotels, guesthouses, or nomadic family homestays as the only options. Travel in these areas requires careful planning and an experienced local guide.

What to Wear in Mongolia in January

January is extremely cold, so proper clothing is essential:

Recommended Winter Tours in January

We recommend Mongolia winter tours in January with experienced operators like Guru Travel Mongolia. Our team prioritizes your comfort and safety, ensuring you stay warm while enjoying winter activities such as dog sledding, camel riding, and cultural experiences.

Our travel advisors can tailor tours to your interests, whether you want adventure, photography, wildlife, or cultural immersion.