Mongolia Weather in May

Is May a Good Time to Visit Mongolia?

Not yet.

First of all, it’s not the time for grassland tour yet. In early May, the grass just shows hints of green, presenting the combination of brown, yellow, and green. The newly grown grass is so sparsely scattered on the vast land that you can find the relatively barren land easily. Coming to late May, almost half of the grassland finally turns green, but light and pale. 

Also, it’s not the right time for winter activities, either. For instance, with rising temperature, thick ice of Lake Khovsgol gradually melts into pieces floating on the lake. Special activities of walking and playing local games on the frozen lake is impossible during this time. The snow cover in distant mountains almost melt away, leaving bleak and desolate scenery. 

However, you can find some advantages of traveling to Mongolia in May. In slack travel season, you will spend less on air tickets, attractions tickets and hotels since the prices will be lower. Besides, Mongolia climate in May features moderate temperature and abundant sunshine, and you can conduct outdoor activities during daytime comfortably. 

If you have decided to travel to Mongolia in May 2026, the following tips might help you have a more pleasant journey.

Tips for Dressing in Mongolia in May

Upper body: You can choose from long-sleeved shirts, blouses, and hoodies for the inner player. T-shirts might be useful at sunny noon or indoors where the heating is supplied. In view of the large temperature difference, coats are still necessary, such as trench coats, leather jackets, and wool coats. If you are going to mountain areas with lower temperature, thin down coats or 3-in-1 winterproof jackets should also be prepared.

Lower body: Casual sweatpants and loose jeans suit well the temperature in May. Long thick dress is an alternative for girls at noon; in other times, they need to put on thin leggings for warmth. 

Shoes: Shoes should be light and comfortable, causing less fatigue after long-time walking. So, sneakers and casual shoes are good choices.

Others: As the UV index gets high in May, sunglasses and sunscreen cream should be prepared to prevent the strong and blazing sunlight, especially at noon.

Travel Recommendations in May

Since the grassland hasn’t revived green completely in May, historical and cultural attractions are more recommended, and Ulaanbaatar is the top choice. There are well-known spots such as Genghis Khan Museum, Sukhbaatar Square, Mongolia National Museum, Winter Palace of the Bogd Khan and Gandan Monastery. 

For visitors preferring natural scenery, it is suggested to visit Khongor Sand Dunes, known as the “Singing Sand Dunes”. When the wind blows, you will hear the singing of sand, as if someone is playing the musical instruments. The boundless dessert, influenced by winds and sunlight, will present diverse shapes and colors, like a running golden river when the sun sets.

Tips for Visiting Mongolia in May

1. Mongolia heating system stops service on May 15. Though it is warm enough by then, sudden temperature drops may occur, and you can choose to book a hotel with air conditioners just in case. 
2. Since middle May, usually May 15, most scenic spots start to follow the time schedule in summer, and their opening time will be extended. For example, Genghis Khan Museum is closed at 20:00, 3 hours later than that in winter. Be sure to check the opening time of every scenic spot which might be different slightly. 

May Weather of Major Mongolia Cities