Mongolia Seeks to Attract Travelers with New Incentives

Mongolia is poised to reopen its doors to international tourism, offering visa-free access to visitors from an expanded list of countries and showcasing new attractions. These developments could mark 2023 as an optimal time for travelers to explore this often-overlooked destination.

Why It Matters

The Mongolian government has designated the years 2023 to 2025 as the "Years to Visit Mongolia," strategically aligning its tourism revival with enhanced infrastructure and cultural offerings. These initiatives are crucial for boosting the economy and revitalizing a tourism sector that has been hampered by geographic remoteness and recent global challenges.

Key Developments

• Visa Policy Changes: Citizens from an additional 34 countries, including several European nations and Australia, can now enter Mongolia without a visa until the end of 2025, increasing the total to 61 visa-exempt nations.

• Chinggis Khaan International Airport: The newly constructed airport, which opened in 2021, can accommodate approximately 3 million passengers annually, doubling the capacity of its predecessor. It now supports a wider range of flights, including budget options and possible direct routes to the U.S.

• Cultural Attractions: The Chinggis Khaan Museum, featuring over 10,000 artifacts and exploring Mongolia’s rich history, has become a significant draw for visitors, with free guided tours available on weekends.

• Festivals and Events: Events like the Naadam festival, celebrating its centennial, offer a captivating glimpse into Mongolian culture through traditional sports. Modern festivals such as Playtime and Spirit of Gobi have also emerged, highlighting the country’s growing arts scene.

• Traditional Experiences: Activities such as mounted archery and calligraphy classes at cultural centers provide immersive experiences in Mongolia’s heritage, while adventures like the Eagle Hunter Tour cater to thrill-seekers.

• Winter Tourism: Professional musher Joel Rauzy leads dogsledding tours on the frozen Lake Khuvsgul, offering a unique seasonal perspective to visitors, along with experiences like ice fishing.

• Sustainability Initiatives: The new Yeruu Lodge combines Scandinavian design with eco-friendly practices, showcasing Mongolia’s commitment to sustainability in tourism.

Full Report

Visa Policy Changes

In a significant move to encourage tourism, Mongolia has implemented a visa-free entry policy for citizens from 34 additional countries. This initiative will remain in effect until the end of 2025, reinforcing the country’s appeal as a travel destination.

Chinggis Khaan International Airport

After numerous delays, the Chinggis Khaan International Airport has officially opened its doors, significantly enhancing Mongolia’s capacity to welcome tourists. The facility not only supports an increased passenger volume but also aims to facilitate future international flight connections, including potential direct flights to the United States.

Cultural Attractions

Mongolia’s cultural offerings are on the rise, with highlights such as the newly opened Chinggis Khaan Museum, which aims to educate visitors about the country’s historical legacy. The museum houses over 10,000 artifacts across multiple exhibition halls and provides complimentary guided tours on weekends.

Festivals and Events

The Naadam festival, rooted in the history of Genghis Khan, has just celebrated its 100th anniversary as a national holiday. The festival showcases traditional competitions in horse racing, wrestling, and archery, reflecting Mongolia’s cultural heritage. Moreover, the country is gaining recognition for music festivals that unite local and international artists.

Traditional Experiences

With a revival of old traditions, mounted archery and the Mongolian script have garnered attention, offering tourists chances to engage with local culture. The Erdenesiin Khuree Mongolian Calligraphy Center permits visitors to learn about this unique art form directly from skilled practitioners.

Winter Tourism

For those intrigued by winter landscapes, Joel Rauzy’s dogsledding tours across Lake Khuvsgul offer an unforgettable experience amidst serene natural beauty. Participants have the chance to engage in ice fishing and stay in winterized yurts while interacting with nomadic families.

Sustainability Initiatives

At the forefront of eco-tourism, Yeruu Lodge, located on the Yeruu River, integrates sustainable practices into its operations. This lodge serves as a model for responsible tourism by utilizing solar power, recycling waste, and growing food onsite.

Context & Previous Events

Mongolia has historically struggled to position itself as an accessible travel destination due in part to its vast landscapes and limited tourism infrastructure. The COVID-19 pandemic further complicated its tourism prospects. However, the recent governmental focus on inviting international tourists represents a significant pivot towards revitalizing the sector and promoting its rich cultural and natural heritage.