Mongolia’s main modes of transportation include road travel, railways, and domestic air travel, each playing a vital role in connecting its vast and sparsely populated regions. While road networks serve as the primary link between cities and provinces, railways are mainly used for freight, and air travel offers a faster option for covering long distances across the country.
1.Automobiles
Mongolia has a vast territory with a sparse population distribution. Outside the capital, Ulaanbaatar, most cities have relatively small populations. As a result, road transport is the primary means of connecting provincial capitals.
Most city roads are single-lane in each direction, while main city centers may have two lanes in each direction—but traffic congestion is common.
Mongolia follows right-hand traffic rules, though you’ll see a mix of both left-hand and right-hand drive vehicles on the road, which is unique.
Currently, Mongolia is planning the construction of new roads and highways, which are expected to ease congestion and make intercity travel more convenient.
2.Public Buses
At bus stops in Mongolia, you’ll typically find an information panel on the back side that shows the station name, the bus routes that stop there, and the stations each route passes through. Specific routes and arrival times can be checked using Google Maps.
Bus fares can be paid by swiping a transit card, dropping cash into the fare box, or handing cash directly to the driver.
To ease traffic congestion, Ulaanbaatar is planning to introduce large-capacity buses and establish dedicated tourist routes along major roads. This initiative is expected to greatly improve the convenience and overall experience of traveling in the city.
3.Air Travel
The largest airport in Mongolia is located in the capital, Ulaanbaatar. Most major provincial capitals also have their own airports, making it possible to travel between cities by plane.
4.Trolleybus
Ulaanbaatar has a trolleybus system for local transportation, though it currently operates on only one route.
5.Taxis
Taxis are relatively limited in Mongolia, and many rides are offered by private car owners operating unofficially. It’s recommended to choose vehicles from licensed taxi companies for safety and reliability.
6.Rail Transit
Phase one of the Ulaanbaatar metro system is currently under planning and construction. Once completed, it will greatly improve urban transportation within the city.
7.Railways
Railways in Mongolia are primarily used for freight transport, with limited passenger train services available.
