Ulaanbaatar Weather & Climate: Best Time to Visit

Average temperatures, rainfall, sunshine and the best time to visit Ulaanbaatar.

Climate overview of Ulaanbaatar

Ulaanbaatar the coldest capital in the world. The winter takes a very long time in this city. The average 24-hour temperature in January and February is around or slightly below the -20°C (-4°F), while the mercury can drop some nights to no less than minus -30°C (-22°F). After a short spring (where you might experience sand storms), the temperatures rise rapidly to over 24°C (75°F) during the day. Regularly there will be days with more than 30°C (86°F). However, the summer months are also the wettest months, although in absolute terms this period is still not very wet.

Ulaanbaatar Weather by Month

Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in Ulaanbaatar - and find the best time to visit.

Monthly Temperature in Ulaanbaatar

The climate in Ulaanbaatar is known for significant temperature differences throughout the year, making the weather dynamic. On average, daytime temperatures range from a comfortable 24°C (75°F) in July to a very cold -15°C (5°F) in January.

Nighttime temperatures range from 11°C (52°F) in July to -28°C (-18°F) in January.

Check out our detailed temperature page for more information.

Temperature ranges by month

Rainfall in Ulaanbaatar

Ulaanbaatar has a relatively dry climate with low precipitation, averaging 356 mm (14 in) of rain/snowfall annually. The seasons in Ulaanbaatar bring significant changes in precipitation. The wettest month, August, receives moderate rainfall, with an average of 72 mm (2.8 in) of precipitation. This rainfall is distributed across 16 rainy days.

In contrast, the driest month, January, experiences much less snowfall, totaling 3.6 mm (0.1 in) over 3 snowy days. These distinct seasonal differences provide diverse experiences throughout the year. For more details, please visit our Ulaanbaatar Precipitation page.

The mean monthly precipitation over the year, including rain, hail, and snow

Sunshine Hours in Ulaanbaatar

In Ulaanbaatar, summer days are longer and more sunny, with daily sunshine hours peaking at 10.0 hours in May. As the darker season arrives, the brightness of the sun becomes less. December sees a soft sun for only 5.1 hours per average day.

Visit our detailed sunshine hours page for more information.

Monthly hours of sunshine

Daily hours of sunshine

Humidity in Ulaanbaatar by Month

Best Time to Visit Ulaanbaatar

The most comfortable overall weather for exploring Ulaanbaatar is usually found in June, July and August. Conditions are generally least comfortable in January, February, March, November and December.

Monthly ratings reflect general weather comfort, based on daytime temperature and rainfall. Swimming and winter conditions are highlighted separately where relevant.

  • Best overall: June, July and August
  • Warmest weather: July
  • Most sunshine: May
  • Fewer rainy days: January, February, March, November and December
  • Seasonal pattern: A distinct dry season from October to May, with warm summers and very cold winters
  • Coldest conditions: January, with freezing nights around -28°C (-18°F).

Frequently asked questions about the climate in Ulaanbaatar

What is the best time to visit Ulaanbaatar?

June, July and August typically offer the most optimal weather in Ulaanbaatar. In contrast, January, February, March, November and December tend to have less optimal conditions. Ulaanbaatar has a distinct dry season from October to May, with warm summers and very cold winters.

What temperatures can I expect in Ulaanbaatar?

Daytime highs range from -15°C (5°F) in January to 24°C (75°F) in July. Nighttime lows range from -28°C (-18°F) to 11°C (52°F). Temperatures vary considerably through the year.

How much rain does Ulaanbaatar get?

Annual rainfall is around 356 mm (14 in). August is the wettest month with 72 mm (2.8 in), while January is the driest with 3.6 mm (0.1 in).

How sunny is Ulaanbaatar?

Ulaanbaatar receives around 2,800 hours of sunshine per year. May is the sunniest month with 300 hours, while December is the cloudiest with just 154 hours. Overall, Ulaanbaatar enjoys abundant sunshine.

Ulaanbaatar 3-Day Forecast

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