Karakorum, Mongolia: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

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Ready to pack for Karakorum, Mongolia? If you're planning to go to Karakorum, the following is some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Karakorum, Mongolia

Based on the climate and weather in Karakorum, Mongolia, the best time to go is June. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Karakorum, Mongolia

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Karakorum, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for Karakorum, Mongolia by month

January

January in Karakorum can be bitter cold. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the 10+ below zero F (20+ below zero C). There is frost almost every day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Mongolia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Karakorum. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and E. Be sure to choose the necessary type. Many adapters currently being sold are just plugs and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most countries.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you plan go to a monastery, like Erdene Zuu Monastery, take the following:

If you decide to visit Orhon Waterfall, prepare to get wet, and take these:

February

February for Karakorum can be bitter cold. Temperatures average in the high 10s F (single digits below 0 C) during the day. There is frost nearly every day this month.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Mongolia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing bags these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Karakorum. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and E. Make sure to pick the right type. A lot of adapters for sale now are just plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most locations.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A good option is this one

If you plan go to a monastery, like Erdene Zuu Monastery, take the following:

If you decide to visit Orhon Waterfall, prepare to get wet, and take these:

March

March in Karakorum is freezing. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the single digits F (10+ below zero C). There is frost almost every day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Mongolia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Karakorum. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and E. Be careful to find the correct kind. The majority of adapters currently being sold are just plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most locations.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you plan go to a monastery, like Erdene Zuu Monastery, take the following:

If you decide to visit Orhon Waterfall, prepare to get wet, and take these:

April

April in Karakorum is cold. Temperatures average in the high 40s F (single digits C) during the day. There is frost most days. It rains or snows 5-10 days this month.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Mongolia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing bags recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Karakorum. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and E. Be careful to pick the right type. Many adapters available online are simply plugs and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most locations.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

If you plan go to a monastery, like Erdene Zuu Monastery, take the following:

If you decide to visit Orhon Waterfall, prepare to get wet, and take these:

May

Traveling to Karakorum in May, you will notice that it is chilly. Expect it to rain or snow regularly. Daytime temperatures are in the low 60s F (high 10s C). There is frost about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Mongolia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing luggage these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Karakorum. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and E. Check that you pick the correct type. The vast majority of adapters currently available are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most countries.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    A good option is this one

If you plan go to a monastery, like Erdene Zuu Monastery, take the following:

If you decide to visit Orhon Waterfall, prepare to get wet, and take these:

June

If you are traveling to Karakorum in June, you will notice that it is balmy. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the low 70s F (low 20s C). There is frost occasionally.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Mongolia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Karakorum. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and E. Check that you choose the right kind. Most adapters on sale are just plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most places.

If you plan go to a monastery, like Erdene Zuu Monastery, take the following:

If you decide to visit Orhon Waterfall, prepare to get wet, and take these:

July

July in Karakorum is balmy. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the high 40s F (single digits C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Mongolia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing bags recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Karakorum. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and E. Be careful to find the correct type. The vast majority of adapters currently sold are simply plug changers and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most countries.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    A great choice is this one

If you plan go to a monastery, like Erdene Zuu Monastery, take the following:

If you decide to visit Orhon Waterfall, prepare to get wet, and take these:

August

If you visit Karakorum during August, you will probably see that it is mild. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 60s F (low 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 40s F (single digits C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain about half of the time. There is frost sometimes.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Mongolia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Karakorum. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and E. Be careful to choose the correct kind. The majority of adapters available are just plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

If you plan go to a monastery, like Erdene Zuu Monastery, take the following:

If you decide to visit Orhon Waterfall, prepare to get wet, and take these:

September

September in this region is cool. Temperatures average in the low 60s F (mid 10s C) during the day. There is frost about half of the time. It rains or snows about a third of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Mongolia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing bags recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Karakorum. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and E. Check that you find the necessary kind. The vast majority of adapters available online are simply plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most places.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

If you plan go to a monastery, like Erdene Zuu Monastery, take the following:

If you decide to visit Orhon Waterfall, prepare to get wet, and take these:

October

October for Karakorum is cold. Temperatures average in the high 40s F (single digits C) during the day. There is frost almost every day of the month. It rains or snows sometimes.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Mongolia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Karakorum. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel neck pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and E. Be careful to get the right type. A lot of adapters on sale are just plug changers and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most locations.

If you plan go to a monastery, like Erdene Zuu Monastery, take the following:

If you decide to visit Orhon Waterfall, prepare to get wet, and take these:

November

November in Karakorum can be extremely cold. Temperatures average in the high 20s F (single digits below 0 C) during the day. There is frost almost every day of the month. It rains or snows sometimes.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Mongolia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Karakorum. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel neck support pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and E. Take care to pick the necessary kind. The majority of adapters currently available are simply plugs and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most locations.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you plan go to a monastery, like Erdene Zuu Monastery, take the following:

If you decide to visit Orhon Waterfall, prepare to get wet, and take these:

December

If you go to Karakorum in December, you will notice that it is unbearably cold. Expect it to rain or snow occasionally. Daytime temperatures are in the 10s F (single digits below 0 C). There is frost almost every day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Mongolia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Karakorum. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and E. Check that you find the necessary kind. A lot of adapters for sale now are just plugs and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most locations.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you plan go to a monastery, like Erdene Zuu Monastery, take the following:

If you decide to visit Orhon Waterfall, prepare to get wet, and take these:

What to do in Karakorum, Mongolia

Karakorum, situated in Mongolia, is one of the significant tourist spots with a rich history and scenic landscapes that attracts millions of tourists annually. The place boasts of various beautiful and serene attractions that make it a popular travel destination for people from all over the world.

Here are some of the top tourist attractions in Karakorum, Mongolia that you don't want to miss:

1. Erdene Zuu Monastery:

The Erdene Zuu Monastery is the oldest surviving monastery in Mongolia and is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Karakorum. The temple complex is located in the center of Karakorum and houses various sculptures, paintings, and Buddhist relics. Visitors can also witness prayer ceremonies and interact with monks.

2. Tumen Amgalan Chabr Museum:

The Tumen Amgalan Chabr Museum is a significant historical museum in Karakorum that displays the history and cultures of Mongolia. The museum showcases various artifacts such as traditional paintings, ceramics, household items, and historic documents, among others.

3. Ongi Monastery:

The Ongi Monastery is another significant tourist spot in Karakorum. The monastery is located in the Gobi desert and is surrounded by beautiful landscapes. It offers a unique cultural experience as visitors can witness the daily rituals and interact with monks.

4. Kharkhorin Rock Carving:

The Kharkhorin Rock Carving is a UNESCO world heritage site located in Karakorum. It dates back to the ancient Turkic period and is famous for its carvings of hunting scenes, animals, and various inscriptions.

5. Orkhon Valley:

The Orkhon Valley is a breathtaking place in Karakorum, famous for its stunning landscapes and natural attractions. Visitors can trek, hike, or horse ride through the valley and explore its beautiful waterfalls, hot springs, and ancient ruins.

6. Tsenkher Hot Springs:

Located near the Orkhon Valley, Tsenkher Hot Springs is a popular tourist spot in Karakorum. The hot springs offer a perfect opportunity for visitors to relax, swim, and enjoy the stunning views of the valley.

In conclusion, Karakorum, Mongolia, is a place rich in culture and history with a variety of tourist attractions that are sure to take your breath away. The place offers a unique experience for visitors, and it's no wonder why it's gaining popularity among tourists worldwide.

About your travel guide

Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.

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