Winter Travel in Mongolia 2025: Dog Sledding, Ice Festival & Snow Adventures

Introduction

Winter in Mongolia offers a unique mix of adventure, culture, and breathtaking landscapes that few destinations in the world can match. While most travelers imagine Mongolia as a land of endless green steppes and summer festivals, the country transforms into a magical winter wonderland from December to March. Snow-covered mountains, frozen lakes, and crystal-clear skies create the perfect backdrop for once-in-a-lifetime experiences.

For adventurous travelers, Mongolia winter travel means far more than just sightseeing. You can race across the frozen surface of Lake Khuvsgul on a dog sledding adventure, marvel at intricate ice sculptures during the famous Mongolia Ice Festival, or take part in traditional nomadic activities in the snow. Beyond the thrill, winter in Mongolia also gives you a chance to experience authentic local culture without the summer crowds, making it one of the most rewarding times to visit.

Whether you are seeking adrenaline-pumping winter adventures in Mongolia or a quiet escape into pristine nature, this guide will walk you through the best experiences, tips, and places to explore during Mongolia’s cold yet enchanting season.

Why Visit Mongolia in Winter?

Traveling to Mongolia in winter is not the obvious choice for most tourists—and that’s exactly what makes it special. Unlike the busy summer months, the colder season sees far fewer visitors, which means you can enjoy the country’s landscapes and traditions in peace. If you’ve ever dreamed of having vast snowy mountains and frozen lakes almost to yourself, Mongolia winter travel is the answer.

One of the biggest draws is the breathtaking scenery. The Altai Mountains turn into towering white peaks draped in snow, while Lake Khuvsgul—the “Blue Pearl of Mongolia”—freezes solid, transforming into a giant mirror of ice. The crisp air, endless blue skies, and untouched wilderness create postcard-perfect views everywhere you go. It’s a paradise for photographers, adventure seekers, and anyone looking to experience nature in its purest form.

Winter is also the season of unique cultural celebrations. From the lively Mongolia Ice Festival at Lake Khuvsgul, featuring horse sled races, ice sculptures, and traditional games, to smaller local winter events and the Lunar New Year (Tsagaan Sar), travelers get a rare chance to experience authentic nomadic traditions. These festivals are not staged for tourists—they are real, community-driven celebrations that allow you to connect with locals on a deeper level.

Choosing to explore Mongolia in winter is more than just an adventure—it’s a chance to see the country at its most raw, beautiful, and authentic. For those seeking off-the-beaten-path experiences, winter in Mongolia offers peace, adventure, and unforgettable cultural encounters.

Top Winter Activities in Mongolia

Dog Sledding on Lake Khuvsgul

One of the most unforgettable experiences during Mongolia winter travel is gliding across the frozen surface of Lake Khuvsgul on a dog sled. Known as the “Blue Pearl of Mongolia,” the lake freezes solid between December and March, creating the perfect playground for husky teams and their skilled mushers. Travelers can choose short one-hour rides for a taste of the adventure, or multi-day dog sledding expeditions that venture deep into the snow-covered forests surrounding the lake.

This activity is more than just thrilling—it also offers a chance for stunning photography. Imagine capturing huskies racing against a backdrop of snow-capped mountains and endless white horizons. Many tours are organized with eco-friendly practices, ensuring that your adventure leaves little impact on the fragile winter environment. If you’re searching for a truly unique winter adventure in Mongolia, dog sledding at Khuvsgul Lake should be at the top of your list.

Ice Festival at Lake Khuvsgul

Every March, the frozen Khuvsgul Lake becomes the stage for one of the country’s most spectacular events: the Mongolia Ice Festival. This two-day celebration brings together locals and travelers for a mix of traditional games, cultural performances, and icy competitions. Visitors can witness horse-drawn sleigh races, ice skating contests, tug-of-war on the frozen lake, and incredible ice sculptures crafted by local artists.

The festival is not only about fun and entertainment—it’s a cultural showcase that allows you to experience the nomadic spirit of Mongolia in the harshest season. From warming up with hot Mongolian food and drinks to joining locals in dances and games, the Ice Festival offers a sense of community and celebration that is rare to find in winter destinations. For many travelers, attending this event is the highlight of their Mongolia winter travel itinerary.

Snow Adventures & Winter Sports

Beyond dog sledding and the Ice Festival, Mongolia offers plenty of opportunities for adrenaline seekers. Skiing and snowboarding are becoming increasingly popular in areas near Ulaanbaatar and in the northern mountains, where untouched slopes offer a raw and wild experience compared to crowded resorts elsewhere.

For something more traditional, try horse trekking through snowy valleys—a once-in-a-lifetime chance to ride Mongolian horses in a winter wonderland. Ice fishing is another unique activity, especially at frozen lakes like Khuvsgul, where locals cut holes through thick ice and spend the day fishing in the crisp air.

Most of these activities are organized by local tour operators, who provide equipment, guides, and transportation. Booking through them not only ensures safety in Mongolia’s extreme winter conditions but also supports local communities.

Cultural Winter Experiences in Mongolia

Staying in a Ger During Winter

One of the most authentic ways to experience Mongolia winter travel is by spending a night in a traditional Mongolian ger (yurt). In summer, gers offer comfort and simplicity, but in winter they transform into warm sanctuaries against the freezing temperatures outside. Each ger is heated by a central stove, often fueled with wood or dried dung, creating a cozy and intimate atmosphere.

Guests can join nomadic families in their daily routines, from preparing hearty meals to tending livestock in the snow. It’s an immersive cultural experience that goes far beyond sightseeing—it’s about living the nomadic lifestyle, even if just for a short time. For travelers seeking connection, warmth, and authenticity, a ger stay in winter is truly unforgettable. It also offers amazing photo opportunities, with smoke rising from snow-dusted gers under Mongolia’s endless blue skies.

Tsagaan Sar – Mongolia’s Lunar New Year

Another highlight of winter in Mongolia is Tsagaan Sar, the Lunar New Year festival that usually takes place between late January and February. This is one of the most important holidays for Mongolians, marking the end of winter and the beginning of spring. Families come together to honor their elders, share traditional food, and celebrate new beginnings.

For travelers lucky enough to experience Tsagaan Sar, it’s a window into Mongolia’s rich traditions. Guests are often welcomed with steaming buuz (steamed dumplings), layers of festive dairy products, and bowls of airag (fermented mare’s milk). The celebrations also include special greetings, gift exchanges, and traditional clothing, with many people wearing brightly colored deel (Mongolian national attire).

Unlike the Ice Festival or dog sledding tours, Tsagaan Sar is not a tourist attraction—it’s a deeply personal cultural holiday. However, joining a local host family or booking a cultural experience tour allows visitors to witness the genuine warmth and hospitality of Mongolian traditions. Experiencing Tsagaan Sar during your Mongolia winter adventure adds a deeper, more meaningful layer to your journey.

Practical Travel Tips for Winter in Mongolia

Best Time to Visit

The ideal time for Mongolia winter travel is between December and March, when the landscapes are fully transformed into a snowy wonderland. December and January are the coldest months, perfect for those who want to experience the most extreme winter conditions. February and early March bring cultural highlights like Tsagaan Sar (Lunar New Year) and the famous Mongolia Ice Festival at Lake Khuvsgul, making this period the best choice for travelers who want to combine adventure with cultural experiences.

Weather & What to Pack

Winter in Mongolia is beautiful but undeniably harsh. Temperatures can range from -15°C to -35°C, especially in northern regions like Khuvsgul. Strong winds and heavy snow are common, so preparing the right gear is essential.

Must-pack essentials include:

• Thermal base layers (top and bottom)
• Insulated winter jacket & snow pants
• Waterproof winter boots with thick socks
• Gloves, scarves, and hats covering the ears
• Sunglasses (the glare from snow can be intense)
• Lip balm and moisturizer (the air is very dry)

Layering is key—several thin layers will keep you warmer than one thick coat. With the right preparation, even Mongolia’s harsh winter weather becomes enjoyable.

How to Get There

Most journeys begin in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia’s capital. From there, travelers heading to the north can take a domestic flight (around 1.5 hours) or a long-distance bus to Murun, the provincial center of Khuvsgul. From Murun, it’s a 2–3 hour drive to Lake Khuvsgul, where many winter adventures such as dog sledding and the Ice Festival take place.

For those exploring other regions like the Altai Mountains, private tours or domestic flights are the best option. Hiring a local guide and driver is strongly recommended, especially in winter, since road conditions can be unpredictable.

Tours & Prices

Winter tours in Mongolia are surprisingly affordable compared to many other adventure destinations. Prices depend on the type of package and level of comfort you choose:

• Dog sledding tours: Short rides start at around $50–$100 USD, while multi-day expeditions can range from $500–$1,200 USD depending on duration and inclusions.
• Ice Festival packages: 3–5 day tours to Lake Khuvsgul including transport, accommodation, meals, and festival activities usually cost $600–$1,000 USD per person.
• Accommodation: Staying in a winterized ger camp costs around $30–$70 USD per night, while hotels in Murun or Ulaanbaatar offer a wider price range.

Many operators also combine winter activities like horse trekking, ice fishing, and cultural visits into their packages. Booking through a reliable local tour operator not only ensures safety but also supports Mongolia’s rural communities.

Accommodation & Tours in Winter Mongolia

Ger Camps Around Lake Khuvsgul

When it comes to Mongolia winter travel, staying in a traditional ger camp near Lake Khuvsgul is one of the most memorable experiences you can have. Unlike summer ger camps, the winter versions are fully insulated and heated with wood- or coal-burning stoves, making them warm and comfortable even when outside temperatures drop below -30°C.

These camps are usually located right on the shores of the frozen lake, offering stunning views of the icy landscape and the surrounding mountains. Waking up in a cozy ger, watching the sunrise over the snow-covered horizon, and then stepping outside into a pristine winter wonderland is something few travelers ever forget.

Ger camps often include homemade meals, hot tea, and the opportunity to interact with local hosts. Some camps also provide activities such as horse riding in snow, ice fishing, and short dog sledding rides—making them a great all-in-one option for winter visitors.

Winter Tour Packages & Local Guides

To make the most of your trip, booking a winter tour package in Mongolia is highly recommended. Local operators offer tours ranging from 3-day Ice Festival trips to 10-day dog sledding expeditions through the northern wilderness. Packages usually include transportation from Ulaanbaatar, accommodation in winterized gers or hotels, meals, and guided activities.

One of the best parts about booking through a local operator is that many tours are designed with eco-friendly practices in mind. This means smaller group sizes, reduced environmental impact, and more authentic interactions with nomadic families. Supporting these tours not only ensures your safety in Mongolia’s extreme winter conditions but also directly benefits local communities.

Whether you’re looking for an adventure-filled dog sledding journey, a cultural experience like Tsagaan Sar, or a relaxing stay by the frozen “Blue Pearl” of Mongolia, there is a package for every type of traveler. Many operators can even customize itineraries, combining dog sledding, the Mongolia Ice Festival, and snow adventures into one unforgettable trip.

Safety & Preparation for Winter Travel in Mongolia

Preparing for Extreme Cold

Winter in Mongolia is breathtaking but also extremely cold, with temperatures dropping as low as -35°C in some regions. To enjoy your trip safely, preparation is essential. Travelers should dress in layers, starting with thermal underclothes, then a warm fleece or wool layer, and finally a windproof and insulated outer shell. High-quality winter boots, gloves, hats, and scarves are non-negotiable.

It’s also important to carry heat packs, lip balm, and moisturizer since the dry air can cause skin irritation. Staying hydrated and eating high-energy meals will help your body cope with the extreme conditions. With the right preparation, even the harshest Mongolian winter feels like an adventure rather than a challenge.

Travel Insurance & Emergency Contacts

When planning your Mongolia winter adventure, always make sure you have reliable travel insurance that covers extreme weather conditions, winter sports, and medical evacuation. Mongolia’s remote landscapes mean that hospitals and medical facilities can be far away, especially if you are traveling to Lake Khuvsgul or the Altai Mountains.

It’s wise to keep emergency contacts on hand, including your tour operator’s hotline, the local police (102), and medical services (103). Many local guides carry satellite phones or radios, as mobile coverage can be limited outside of Ulaanbaatar. Being well-prepared gives you peace of mind and allows you to enjoy your trip to the fullest.

Responsible Tourism in Winter Mongolia

Traveling in Mongolia’s fragile winter environment comes with responsibilities. Leave no trace is the golden rule—take all trash with you, avoid disturbing wildlife, and respect local customs. Choosing eco-friendly Mongolia winter tours not only reduces your environmental impact but also supports nomadic families who depend on sustainable tourism.

Buying handmade goods from local communities, staying in family-run ger camps, and using local guides are great ways to ensure your money benefits the people who keep Mongolia’s culture alive. By traveling responsibly, you contribute to preserving both the natural beauty and the traditional lifestyle of Mongolia for future generations.

Conclusion – Why Mongolia in Winter Belongs on Your Bucket List

Winter in Mongolia is not just a season—it’s an experience that belongs on every traveler’s bucket list. From racing huskies across the frozen expanse of Lake Khuvsgul to marveling at the artistry of the Mongolia Ice Festival, every moment is filled with wonder and discovery. Add to that the chance to celebrate Tsagaan Sar with local families, stay warm inside a traditional ger, and witness landscapes few people on earth ever see in winter, and it becomes clear why this destination is so unique.

Unlike typical winter holidays, a Mongolia winter adventure offers both thrilling activities and deep cultural connections. You’re not just traveling—you’re living alongside nomads, embracing traditions, and experiencing the raw beauty of nature at its most powerful. The peacefulness of the off-season, the untouched snowy wilderness, and the authentic hospitality of the Mongolian people make this journey truly unforgettable.

If you’re searching for something beyond ordinary travel, it’s time to add Mongolia to your plans. Plan your Mongolia winter adventure today and discover why this hidden gem of Central Asia is one of the world’s most extraordinary cold-weather destinations.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) – Winter Travel in Mongolia