Mongolia Travel Guide

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Shopping

Ulaanbaatar is well-endowed with antique stores and souvenir shops. Best buys include landscape paintings, cashmere garments, camel-wool blankets, national costumes, boots, jewelry, carpets, books and handicrafts. The State Department Store (Ikh Delguur) has the largest selection of souvenirs and gifts in the country. Juulchin (Tourist) Street has several antique shops. When buying antiques be sure to get a certificate of sale that will allow you to take them out of the country.

The notorious Naran Market on the outskirts of Ulaanbaatar is a large, crowded flea market which sells a huge variety of items. Suitable for the adventurous traveler, it is patronized mainly by local people. Pickpockets here are skillful, so leave valuables in your hotel.

Shopping hours: Daily 1000-1800 as a general guide although times and days vary considerably.

Currency

Tugrik (MNT; symbol ₮). Notes are in denominations of ₮20,000, 10,000, 5,000, 1,000, 500, 100, 50, 20, 10, 5 and 1. Coins are in denominations of ₮500, 200, 100, 50 and 20.

Currency Exchange

Official organizations authorized to exchange foreign currency include commercial banks in Ulaanbaatar and bureau de change found along the streets and in hotels. Rates vary slightly and are likely to be lower in hotels. The easiest currency to exchange is the US Dollar, followed by the Euro and the Russian Rouble.

Credit Cards, Debit Cards, and ATMs

Accepted by main commercial banks, large hotels and a few shops and restaurants in Ulaanbaatar. ATMs are available in Ulaanbaatar and most aimag capitals. Both Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted.

Travelers Checks

Traveller's checks are accepted although credit and debit cards remain faster and more convenient. To avoid additional exchange rate charges, travelers are advised to take traveler's checks in US Dollars. Traveller's checks can be difficult to exchange outside the capital.

Currency Restrictions

There are no restrictions on the import of local and foreign currencies, provided they are declared on arrival. Local and foreign currencies can be exported up to the amount imported and declared.

Banking Hours

Mon-Fri 0900-1300 and 1400-1800.

Exchange Rate