Ulaanbaatar in May

May weather, activities, events & insider tips

May Weather in Ulaanbaatar

18°C (64°F) High Temp

3°C (38°F) Low Temp

23 mm (0.9 inches) Rainfall

70% Humidity

Is May Right for You?

Advantages

Peak spring weather - afternoons reach comfortable 18°C (64°F) making outdoor exploration ideal after the harsh winter
Green season begins - grasslands turn emerald, wildflowers bloom across the steppes, creating Mongolia's most photogenic landscapes
Festival season - Mongol Spring Festival and early summer celebrations before tourist crowds arrive
Perfect temperature range for ger camps - warm enough for comfortable overnight stays without summer's extreme heat

Considerations

Dramatic daily temperature swings from 3°C (38°F) to 18°C (64°F) require layered clothing and constant adjustments
Unpredictable weather - sunny mornings can turn to afternoon snow squalls within hours, disrupting outdoor plans
Muddy conditions - spring thaw creates challenging road conditions to countryside attractions, requiring 4WD vehicles

Best Activities in May

Gandan Monastery and Buddhist Temple Tours

May's mild afternoons are perfect for exploring Ulaanbaatar's monasteries without winter's brutal cold or summer's scorching heat. Morning prayer ceremonies at 10am offer authentic cultural immersion when temperatures reach comfortable levels. Spring brings renewed spiritual activity as monks resume outdoor ceremonies.

Booking Tip: Book temple tours through licensed cultural guides 5-7 days ahead, typically ₮25,000-40,000 ($10-16). Look for guides who speak fluent English and understand Buddhist traditions. See current temple tour options in the booking section below.

Terelj National Park Day Trips

May is optimal for Terelj visits - warm enough for comfortable hiking but before summer's intense UV and crowds. Wildflowers bloom across valleys, creating impressive photography opportunities. Road conditions improve from winter but still require sturdy vehicles. Perfect weather for horseback riding and ger camp experiences.

Booking Tip: Book day trips 10-14 days ahead through operators with 4WD vehicles, typically ₮80,000-120,000 ($32-48) including transport and lunch. Ensure operators provide proper cold weather backup plans. See current Terelj tours in the booking section below.

Chinggis Khan Statue Complex Tours

May's clear spring air offers spectacular views from the 40m (131ft) statue observation deck. Comfortable afternoon temperatures make the outdoor complex enjoyable, while mornings can be quite cold. The museum visits are perfect for chilly periods, and the horse-themed exhibits align with spring equestrian traditions.

Booking Tip: Combine with other nearby attractions as half-day tours, typically ₮35,000-55,000 ($14-22). Book through operators offering indoor museum time for weather flexibility. See current statue complex tours in the booking section below.

Traditional Mongolian Cultural Performances

May weather makes indoor cultural venues particularly appealing during unpredictable weather periods. Spring marks the return of traditional festivals and performances after winter dormancy. Throat singing, contortion, and traditional dance shows provide perfect entertainment during cool evenings.

Booking Tip: Evening performances typically cost ₮15,000-30,000 ($6-12) per person. Book Easttimor-day tickets at venues or 2-3 days ahead for weekend shows. Many venues offer dinner packages. See current cultural performance options in the booking section below.

Hustai National Park Wildlife Tours

May is prime time for spotting Przewalski's horses (takhi) as they become more active in spring warmth and foals are often visible. Early morning and late afternoon game drives work perfectly with May's temperature patterns - warm afternoons and cool mornings. Spring grasslands provide optimal wildlife viewing conditions.

Booking Tip: Full-day tours typically cost ₮100,000-150,000 ($40-60) including 4WD transport and park fees. Book 7-10 days ahead with operators specializing in wildlife photography. Ensure vehicles have heating for early morning departures. See current Hustai tours in the booking section below.

Ulaanbaatar City Walking Tours

May afternoons offer ideal walking weather once temperatures rise above 12°C (54°F) around 11am. Perfect for exploring Sukhbaatar Square, State Department Store, and Soviet-era architecture without extreme cold. Spring cleaning reveals city attractions at their most presentable before summer dust.

Booking Tip: Walking tours typically run ₮20,000-35,000 ($8-14) for 3-4 hours. Start tours after 11am when temperatures become comfortable. Book with guides offering indoor alternatives for weather changes. See current walking tour options in the booking section below.

May Events & Festivals

Early May

Mongol Spring Festival

Traditional celebration marking the end of winter featuring wrestling, archery, and horse racing events in smaller venues around the city. Local families participate in traditional games and wear ceremonial dels. Less touristy than Naadam but equally authentic.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Layering system essential - lightweight base layer, warm fleece (temperatures drop 15°C/27°F from afternoon to evening)

Waterproof jacket with hood - May's 10 rainy days often bring unexpected downpours lasting 30-45 minutes

Warm winter hat and gloves - morning temperatures of 3°C (38°F) require full winter accessories

Sturdy waterproof boots - spring mud and unpaved streets make fashionable shoes impractical

SPF 50+ sunscreen - UV index of 8 at 1,350m (4,429ft) elevation burns skin quickly despite cool air

Portable umbrella - afternoon showers arrive suddenly and street shelter is limited

Thick socks and warm sleepwear - ger camps and budget accommodations have limited heating

Hand warmers for outdoor activities - early morning and evening temperatures still feel like winter

Lip balm and moisturizer - dry continental air at high altitude causes rapid dehydration

Backup indoor clothing - weather unpredictability requires dressy options for museum and restaurant visits

Insider Knowledge

Locals start outdoor activities after 11am when sun warms the air - following this schedule avoids miserable cold morning tours

May is shoulder season for ger camps - negotiate 20-30% discounts compared to peak summer rates while getting better service

Afternoon dust storms can arise suddenly in May - carry eye drops and face covering, especially around construction areas

Public heating ends in early May regardless of temperature - budget hotels become uncomfortably cold, invest in mid-range accommodation with individual heating

Avoid These Mistakes

Packing only for warm weather based on 18°C (64°F) highs while ignoring 3°C (38°F) mornings that require winter gear

Booking countryside tours without confirming 4WD vehicles - spring mud makes many attractions inaccessible to regular cars

Scheduling outdoor activities too early - most outdoor attractions are unpleasant before 10-11am due to cold temperatures