Mongolians tend to be very hush-hush regarding sexual orientation. Consequently, public displays of affection will likely cause a stir. However, the population tends to be very adaptable, and attitudes are quickly changing. Homosexuality was legalized in 2003, and Ulaanbaatar’s first LGBT centre opened in 2007.
Gay Activity: Legal
Lesbian Activity: Legal
Gay Marriage: Not recognized
Right to Change Gender: Ambiguous
Same-Sex Adoption: Single only
The local LGBT scene is fairly quiet, and gay men and women don’t have many options regarding meeting places. According to Lonely Planet, popular LGBT hotspots change frequently, so please take our recommendations with a grain of salt—things may have changed since publishing. It should be noted Mongolia has hosted annual Pride celebrations since 2013.
Gay Villages in Mongolia
There are no gay villages in Mongolia.
Pride Festivals in Mongolia
Since 2013, Pride celebrations have taken place in Ulaanbaatar. Visit the local LGBT centre’s Facebook Page for updates and details.
Best Gay Bars in Mongolia
Ulaanbaatar—D.d / h.z
Ulaanbaatar—18cm
Best Lesbian Bars in Mongolia
Every Wednesday is lady’s night at 18cm.
5. Khovsgol Lake
Otherwise known as The Blue Pearl of Mongolia, this picture-perfect lake is an excellent place for horseback riding.
4. Ulaanbaatar
One-third of all Mongolians have settled down in the country’s quickly developing capital. Be sure to begin your adventure at The National Museum of Mongolia to better understand the country’s past and present.
3. Gorkhi-Terelj National Park
Directly connected to Ulaanbaatar by a single paved road, this gorgeous national park is the perfect spot to kick start an unforgettable adventure.
2. Gobi Desert
The world’s sixth largest desert is also one of its most beautiful. And to see her at her best, we recommend riding a camel to Khongoryn Els’ rolling dunes.
1. Nadaam and the Golden Eagle Festival
All visitors should align their tour with one of Mongolia’s famous festivals, of which there are many. Nadaam (meaning ‘Games’) in July is a three-day event full of wrestling, horseback riding and archery. Meanwhile, The Golden Eagle Festivals in September and October celebrate the country’s Khazak connection. Both festivals also offer the opportunity to enjoy plenty of regional fare including infamous airag—fermented mare’s milk. Bottoms up!
Best Time to Visit: June through September—the weather is warm and pleasant. Nadaam is also in July and is usually a highlight of most travelers’ visit.
Electricity: C- and E-type sockets
Time Zone: Hovd Standard Time (GMT+7) & Ulaanbaatar Standard Time (GMT+8)
Covid-19 Vaccination Requirements: We’re dedicated to ensuring our tours are safe for everyone, but it is our belief that each traveler has a responsibility to protect themselves and their fellow travellers from COVID-19. As of May 1, 2023, Out Adventures no longer requires guests to provide proof of COVID-19 vaccination on most of our tours. If vaccination is a requirement for entry, or on select cruises, this will be communicated at the time a trip is confirmed to depart. Before booking, we recommend that you read our COVID-19 Information Page and our COVID-19 Frequently Asked Questions to understand what we’re doing to minimize risk, and what will happen if you contract COVID-19 before or during an Out Adventures tour.
Other Vaccinations: Based on the entry requirements for Mongolia, there are no other vaccinations needed. To determine if you should take preventative measures to reduce the risk of illness, you should consult your doctor or a travel medical clinic, as Out Adventures cannot provide vaccination recommendations.
Visas: If your passport is from Canada or the USA, you can stay up to 90 days without a visa. However, if you’re staying longer than 30 days you must register with Mongolian Immigration within seven days of arrival. There may be exceptions.
Last updated on Sept 24, 2021. Disclaimer: The information provided was accurate at the time of publishing, but cannot be guaranteed.
