Mongolia Weather in January

Season: Winter
 

If you wish to travel to Mongolia in January, it is better to be prepared. January is the coldest winter month in Mongolia. The Mongolia weather in January drops to -24.6 °C (-12.28 °F). Afternoons are no respite although the sun is shining. The sunshine is weak, and the temperature is around -15.6 °C (3.9 °F) in Ulaanbaatar. Mongolian temperature in January nights can be as freezing as -40 °C (-40 °F). It does not snow much at this time; the weather is arid. The days are shorter, and the nights longer.
 

In January, you may spend the New Year and can celebrate the Mongolian Constitution Day (the new constitution was adopted in 1992). The extreme cold does not make this month too favorable for tourists but the adventurous can plan a visit to find out for themselves.
 

It is cold by every standard and the best thing to do is to cover yourself in layers to keep warm. Wear woolen garments as opposed to cotton, and wear a fleece jacket in mid layer. You would need three top layers if you are going hiking or skiing. You can pick a traditional Mongolian ‘deel’, ($200 a coat), a wraparound coat (purchase suggestion, the Bodio's Yak House). Wear two woolen socks. A thin one as the undercover and a thick one as the outer cover. Anti-skid boots, high boots going up to the calf length or ankle support Hiking boots. Hats and scarves are a must, to keep head and ears covered from frostbites. You could try out traditional Mongolian fur hats. Don’t forget gloves and warmers. You can check in the Gobi Cashmere Factory Store and the Goyo Cashmere if you wish to do Cashmere shopping in Mongolia. (See also Best Mongolia Souvenirs)
 

Recommendation Rate:

January in Mongolia, being extremely cold, attract less people, giving you opportunity to see the best places peacefully, at comparatively cheaper rates.  The temperature is subzero, lakes freeze to the bottom; you can almost see your reflection. The rivers too turn to solid ice in a funny sort of a way. However, it does not snow here as much as its neighboring country, Russia. Braving the weather is the most important lookout so, be sure to cover yourself safely to avoid frostbites and not spoil your chances of touring around the country. Don’t forget to guard your feet.
 

The Töv province is a wonderful place to go, in this time of the year. The frosty landscape allows you to see that slice of Mongolia which is perhaps closest to heaven. The calming stretches of snow can be reached from Ulaanbaatar. Take a local guide with you.
 

The Mongolian icon stands tall, a 40m high statue, that gleams in the sun and snow as it is made of stainless steel. Erected in 2008 with help from Russia and South Korea this is worth watching.
 

Just 15-20 minutes away from Chinggis Khaan Statue Complex, this is a place abundant with scenic beauty. You can see the turtle rock and the snow peaked rocky-mountains against the blue sky. Gandan Khid, a Buddhist monastery, mostly vacant at this time, is surrounded by amazing scenic beauty.
 

Wildlife on Mongolia is always a perineal attraction. Red foxes, black vultures, reindeers, grey wolves, rabbits and goats never leaves you disappointed. If you are lucky you can spot snow leopards too.
 

Another attraction of the Mongolia winter is the Dogsled. Dog sled excursions is led by nine dogs through the immense and picturesque Mongolian countryside. It is expensive but adventurous.
 

After all this adventure with the Mongolia weather in January, return to your camp and treat yourself to a hot cup of salty Mongolian tea (suutei tsai) with steaming mutton and beef fat dumplings (buuz). Meat fat is an integral part of the Mongolian cuisine as it helps them to stay warm. Also, local vodka, beer and fermented camel milk will help you keep warm in the freezing Mongolia weather in January. The flavor of local Mongolian food is well preserved in the Zochin Cafe, Ulaanbaatar's Peace Avenue, in case you wish to try out some.

Read more about Top 7 Things to Do in Mongolia in the Winter

1. Mongolia’s winter is so cold and tourists have to prepare enough warm clothes, such as woolen garments, thick down jackets, and don’t forget to cover your feet by thick woolen socks and snow boots.
2. Travel in cars and make your tour worth remembering. Don’t walk outside for a long time.
3. Supplement high-calorie food in time.