Mongolia in August

Warmest and wettest; rivers rise and tracks get muddy. Peak for Khövsgöl.

• Ulaanbaatar and the centre · Ulaanbaatar, Terelj, Kharkhorin, Orkhon valleyrainy

  Coldest capital in the world: January averages about −20 °C. Coal and ger-stove smoke make winter air among the worst anywhere Nov–Feb. Summer is 20–28 °C by day with afternoon showers in July–August.

• Gobi · Dalanzadgad, Khongoryn Els, Bayanzag, Yolyn Amhot

  Summer days reach 35–40 °C, nights stay cool; spring (Apr–May) brings wind and dust storms. September is the easy month.

• Khövsgöl and the north · Mörön, Khatgal, Darkhad valleyrainy

  Lake Khövsgöl stays frozen until late May or June; summer nights near freezing at 1,650 m. Ice Festival in early March.

• Western Altai · Ölgii, Khovd, Tavan Bogd, Uvsbest weather

  High mountains with snow possible any month; the Golden Eagle Festival in early October is the last good week before the cold.

Crowds · Mongolia

High

Prices · Mongolia

High

High-price month: see what to book ahead.

• Light, breathable clothes, a sun hat and sunscreen
• A rain jacket or umbrella and shoes that dry fast

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Rated best or good this month

• Western Altai

  Best weather of the year (Ölgii, Khovd, Tavan Bogd, Uvs)

• Ulaanbaatar

  Warm; green countryside.