Scarce Precipitation and Dry

Precipitation: 15mm (0.59 in)
Average Rainy Days: 6 days

The precipitation in October is usually presented as rain or sleet, and sometimes snow. After snow, that on the mountains melts slowly and is accumulated; but the snow cover on the urban streets and roads does not linger for a long time, thus causing no big troubles for visitors. With scarce precipitation, Mongolia climate in October is so dry that your lips and hands might crack. It is suggested to carry lip protectors and hand creams with you. 

Decreasing Sunlight Hours 

Sunrise: 7:01 - 7:43
Sunset: 17:52 - 18:47
UV index: 3 (Moderate) 
Daylength: 10h9m - 11h45m
Average Sunlight Hours: 7 hours per day

In October, the sunshine is not so strong anymore but remains bright. In different parts of Mongolia, the sunny hours vary. For example, in Central and Western Mongolia where most grassland, mountains and lakes lie, there are more snowy or rainy days and the sunny days account for about one third of the month. In Southern Mongolia, the sunny days account for more. For instance, in Dalanzadgad, the sunny days might reach 15 days or more in October. But most gloomy days don’t last for a whole day, and it usually turns sunny and clear soon after. Therefore, the sunlight remains ample in Mongolia in October.

As the daylength decreases largely, the scenic spots close earlier, such as the Gandan Monastery and Mongolian National Museum whose closure time is advanced to 17:00, 3 hours earlier than that in Summer. It reminds visitors to arrange the attractions’ visit more wisely.

Is October a Good Time to Visit Mongolia? 

It depends. 

Mongolia in early October remains a good destination as the temperature is not too low yet even in Northern Mongolia, not to mention other regions. Also, the autumn scenery is still fascinating and breathtaking when the golden leaves can be seen everywhere and the grassland looks like covered by a yellow blanket with pearl-like Mongolian yurts dotted. Moreover, an interesting traditional festival, Golden Eagle Festival, is usually held in early October.

Golden Mongolia in Early October

However, it is not suggested to travel to Mongolia since middle or late October for the following factors. To begin with, the weather of Mongolia during that time gets colder, even freezing after night falls. It will be a big challenge for visitors to conduct outdoor activities. Besides, in middle and late October, the grassland has become barren and totally brown, looking pretty desolate. There is only withered and dry plant covered on the grassland, and it is muddy when the snow cover melt, unsuitable for paying a visit.

Late Autum in Mongolia

If your trip to Mongolia has been settled down for October 2026, read the suggestions below, which will help you to have better experiences.

What to Wear in Mongolia in October?

Upper body: You are suggested to prepare three layers of clothes for the upper body. Skintight bottoming shirt is a good choice for the inner player since it can preserve heat and prevent cold air creeping in. For middle layer, blouse is suggested for early October and hoodies or sweaters for late October. In terms of coats, you can choose from woolen overcoats and down jackets.

Lower body: Fleece pants or padded jeans are warm enough in most of the time, but you had better prepare a pair of long johns to cope with the chilly night and sudden temperature drops. 

Shoes: Comfortable sneakers and casual shoes with thick socks are good matches, or you can wear fleece-lined leather shoes. It will be perfect if they are non-slip since the ground after rain or snow will be very slippery. 

Others: You are suggested to wear hats since the wind might make you suffer from headache. Scarves are also necessary to prevent the cold air. Besides, remember to pack skin-care products such as moisturizing cream and lip protectors to protect your skin from chapping. You should also wear masks, which is helpful to keep warm and deal with low air quality. 

What to Do in Mongolia in October?

Attend Golden Eagle Festival

It is a great and traditional event held annually in early October in Western Mongolia. You can enjoy the excellent competitions like Coin Picking on Horseback, Traditional Archery and Horseback Wrestling. The hunters will wear their traditional clothes to give eagle training performance and you can see the eagles standing on the arms of the hunters, flying away and back according to the orders.  

Appreciate Autumn Scenery

There are lots of destinations in Mongolia which are endowed with appealing autumn scenery in early October and every spot is of its own unique views. Lake Khovsgol in Northern Mongolia is a famous scenic spot for visitors to enjoy the deep autumn scenery. The golden trees on the surrounding mountains are reflected on the blue and peaceful lake, presenting such a colorful picture. In addition, you can choose to visit Eagle Valley in Southern Mongolia. Under the bright sunshine and blue sky, riding horses to go across gently running brooks and the valleys covered with yellow plants will be an impressive experience.

Autumn Scenery in Lake Khovsgol

Tips for Visiting Mongolia in October 

1. In late October, considering the low temperature, visitors had better conduct indoor activities in the early morning or late afternoon when the temperature is relatively low, such as visiting Gandan Monastery, Winter Palace of the Bogd Khan and Mongolia National Museum; while arrange outdoor visits around noon, to sites like Genghis Khan Square and Zaishan Memorial Hill. In this way, you will not feel very uncomfortable. 
2. The specific date of Golden Eagle Festival in 2026 has not been settled yet and if you are interested in it, be sure to check its specific days before your departure.
3. If you visit the attractions when it is snowing or after in Ulaanbaatar, you had better be prepared for the exceptionally traffic jam and get ready for long time spent on the way.