Practical Information for the North

Climate & Best Travel Time

The north of Mongolia is cooler and wetter than the rest of the country. At Khövsgöl Lake, summer temperatures range from 10–22°C (at night 0–5°C!), and the lake is only ice-free from mid-June. In Terelj, it is slightly milder, but even in July, the nights can be cool. The best travel time is July and August — the lake is open, the forests green, the days long. In September, it quickly becomes cold, and the first snowflakes fall.

Getting There & Connections

• Terelj: Only 70 km from UB — by taxi (40,000 MNT / 11€), organized transfer, or minibus. The easiest wilderness experience from UB.
• Khövsgöl Lake: Flight UB → Mörön (1.5h, approx. 150€) is the fastest option. Bus/Jeep: 10–12h on poor roads. From Mörön to the lake: 2–3h by jeep.
• Tsaatan Region: Only accessible by jeep and horse — no roads, no flights. Plan 4–5 extra days.

What to Bring?

• Warm Clothing: Even in summer! At Khövsgöl Lake and in the taiga, nighttime temperatures around freezing are normal. A fleece jacket, warm hat, and gloves should be in your luggage.
• Rain Protection: The north receives more rain than the Gobi or the steppe. A lightweight rain jacket and waterproof shoes are essential.
• Mosquito Repellent: At the lakes and in the northern forests, mosquitoes can be brutal in July and August — especially in the morning and evening. DEET-containing spray and a head net are not an exaggeration.
• Water Bottle with Filter: The water of Khövsgöl Lake is considered drinkable (one of the cleanest lakes in the world), but a water filter provides additional safety on hikes.