Ulaanbaatar - When to Visit

When to Ulaanbaatar

Climate guide & best times to travel

Monthly Climate Data for Ulaanbaatar Average temperature and rainfall by month Climate Overview -30°C -15°C 0°C 15°C 30°C Rainfall (mm) 0 36 73 Jan Jan: -15.0°C high, -25.0°C low, 3mm rain Feb Feb: -9.0°C high, -21.0°C low, 3mm rain Mar Mar: 0.0°C high, -12.0°C low, 5mm rain Apr Apr: 10.0°C high, -3.0°C low, 8mm rain May May: 17.0°C high, 3.0°C low, 23mm rain Jun Jun: 23.0°C high, 10.0°C low, 48mm rain Jul Jul: 25.0°C high, 13.0°C low, 74mm rain Aug Aug: 23.0°C high, 11.0°C low, 66mm rain Sep Sep: 17.0°C high, 4.0°C low, 28mm rain Oct Oct: 7.0°C high, -4.0°C low, 8mm rain Nov Nov: -4.0°C high, -15.0°C low, 5mm rain Dec Dec: -13.0°C high, -22.0°C low, 3mm rain Temperature Rainfall
Ulaanbaatar experiences a harsh continental climate with extreme temperature variations throughout the year. The city endures brutally cold winters with temperatures plummeting well below freezing from November through March, while summers are relatively mild and pleasant. The climate is characterized by very low precipitation, with most rainfall concentrated in the summer months from June to August, making it essentially a semi-arid climate. The city experiences over 250 sunny days per year, but the altitude of 4,430 feet contributes to the extreme temperature swings and harsh winter conditions that can last up to six months.

Best Time to Visit

Beach & Relaxation
Not applicable - Ulaanbaatar is a landlocked city with no beaches, but July offers the warmest weather for outdoor relaxation.
Cultural Exploration
May through September when temperatures are above freezing and walking around the city is comfortable for extended periods.
Adventure & Hiking
June through August when temperatures are warmest and rainfall provides some relief from the typically dry conditions.
Budget Travel
November through March when tourist numbers are lowest due to extreme cold, though outdoor activities will be severely limited.

Month-by-Month Guide

January

January is the coldest month in Ulaanbaatar with brutal sub-zero temperatures and minimal precipitation. The extreme cold makes outdoor activities challenging, and proper winter clothing is absolutely essential. Clear, sunny days are common despite the frigid conditions.

4°F High
-14°F Low
0.1 inches Rainfall
Low Crowds
View Details →

February

February remains extremely cold but shows slight improvement from January's harsh conditions. Snow is minimal but the ground remains frozen, and daylight hours begin to increase noticeably. Indoor heating and warm clothing remain critical for comfort.

15°F High
-7°F Low
0.1 inches Rainfall
Low Crowds
View Details →

March

March marks the beginning of spring with temperatures finally rising above zero during the day. While still very cold, the weather becomes more bearable and snow begins to melt. Strong winds can make conditions feel colder than actual temperatures.

31°F High
9°F Low
0.2 inches Rainfall
Low Crowds
View Details →

April

April brings significant warming with daytime temperatures reaching above freezing consistently. Spring conditions emerge with occasional dust storms as the snow melts and vegetation remains dormant. Weather can be unpredictable with sudden temperature swings.

50°F High
26°F Low
0.3 inches Rainfall
Medium Crowds
View Details →

May

May offers pleasant spring weather with comfortable daytime temperatures and the landscape beginning to green. Nights remain cool but no longer freezing, making it an ideal time for outdoor exploration. Tourism season begins to pick up significantly.

64°F High
38°F Low
0.9 inches Rainfall
Medium Crowds
View Details →

June

June delivers warm, comfortable temperatures perfect for sightseeing and outdoor activities. Rainfall increases substantially compared to earlier months, providing relief from the typically dry conditions. This marks the beginning of the peak tourist season.

73°F High
50°F Low
1.9 inches Rainfall
High Crowds
View Details →

July

July is the warmest month with the most pleasant temperatures and highest rainfall of the year. Conditions are ideal for all outdoor activities and cultural exploration. Peak tourist season continues with the best weather conditions of the year.

77°F High
56°F Low
2.9 inches Rainfall
High Crowds
View Details →

August

August maintains warm summer temperatures with substantial rainfall continuing the wet season. Weather remains excellent for tourism with comfortable conditions for extended outdoor activities. Tourist numbers remain high during this favorable period.

73°F High
51°F Low
2.6 inches Rainfall
High Crowds
View Details →

September

September brings cooler but still pleasant temperatures as autumn begins. Rainfall decreases significantly from summer levels, and the weather remains good for sightseeing. Tourist crowds start to thin as the season transitions toward winter.

62°F High
39°F Low
1.1 inches Rainfall
Medium Crowds
View Details →

October

October sees a dramatic temperature drop with the onset of autumn conditions. Daytime temperatures remain above freezing but nights become quite cold, and precipitation returns to very low levels. Warm clothing becomes necessary for evening activities.

45°F High
23°F Low
0.3 inches Rainfall
Medium Crowds
View Details →

November

November marks the return of harsh winter conditions with sub-freezing temperatures becoming the norm. Snow begins to accumulate and outdoor activities become challenging without proper winter gear. Tourist season effectively ends with the cold weather.

23°F High
4°F Low
0.2 inches Rainfall
Low Crowds
View Details →

December

December brings severe winter conditions with extremely cold temperatures and minimal precipitation. The harsh weather makes outdoor exploration difficult, and proper winter preparation is essential. Clear skies are common despite the bitter cold conditions.

7°F High
-9°F Low
0.1 inches Rainfall
Low Crowds
View Details →

Activities in Ulaanbaatar