What to buy in Mongolia? 15+ Top Mongolian souvenirs & Best things to buy in Mongolia

When it comes to traveling to Mongolia, everyone must immediately think of souvenirs, because they remind us of the beautiful memories of the places we have been to. In addition, when coming to new countries, tourists will also think of gifts for their relatives, friends, and family. If you have the opportunity to visit Mongolia, do not forget to shop for items here. So, what to buy in Mongolia and what souvenirs to buy in Mongolia? Let’s check our Mongolia shopping guide with 11+ best things to buy in Mongolia, best souvenirs from Mongolia, top Mongolia gifts before leaving the wild heart country of Asia!

Mongolia, a country that people immediately associate with “horse hooves galloping on steppe” – a destination with products that tourists can hardly find anywhere else besides Mongolia. However, this land with eternal blue sky is the tourist destination with the least shopping places in the world. But don’t worry, read this article before you travel to Mongolia, you will have a lot of experience to be able to buy meaningful items for yourself and your loved ones at the best prices.

What to buy in Mongolia: Mongolian Cashmere Wool and Products Made from Wool

This cashmere wool was formed from the Mongolian goat farming and is recorded in history. It is present in many countries, but Cashmere wool in Mongolia is the most beautiful and warmest fabric in the world. Mongolia became the second largest producer of Cashmere wool in the world with the number of goats in 2018 in this country estimated at about 27 million. Therefore, when traveling to Mongolia, tourists can buy many types of wool products at any store in Ulaanbaatar city at prices 10 times cheaper than the world market price. Or tourists can also buy other types of wool such as: camel wool, sheep wool, … although not as good as cashmere wool, the warmth and comfort are still high, the price is affordable. Other wool products such as: camel wool blankets, sheep wool slippers, fox fur coats, … you will definitely not regret buying them.

When it comes to luxurious and quality gifts from Mongolia, we cannot fail to mention Cashmere wool. Known as “soft gold”, Mongolian Cashmere wool is world-famous for its softness, lightness and outstanding ability to keep warm. This precious wool is harvested from the super-fine down of Cashmere goats living in harsh grasslands and high mountains. It is the special climate conditions that have helped them develop the world’s top quality down.

When you come to Mongolia, you will find countless products made from Cashmere wool, from thin, warm scarves, elegant, sophisticated sweaters to thick, soft blankets. The colors are also very diverse, from natural goat hair colors such as white, beige, brown, gray to fashionable, eye-catching dyed colors. Owning a Mongolian Cashmere product not only brings warmth and comfort but also is a way for you to bring back a part of the essence of nature and the craftsmanship of the people here. This is definitely a classy and meaningful gift.

When coming to Ulaanbaatar, visitors will find many Mongolian Gifts with Cashmere wool products at affordable prices, often 10 times cheaper than international market prices. In addition, products made from camel wool and sheep wool are also popular, although not as warm as Cashmere wool, they are still very comfortable and reasonably priced.

Skin Care Products, Natural Cosmetics

If you are looking for safe skin care products, then traveling to Mongolia you will be able to buy a lot of beauty products for yourself. With a country of more than 60 million animals, natural ingredients, products made from animal oils, herbs, and plants are suitable for sensitive, irritated skin. Coming to Mongolia, visitors will be able to shop comfortably without having to doubt the origin of the products. Buying and using natural beauty products is not only safe but also helps protect the environment.

Taking advantage of abundant raw materials from pristine nature, the Mongolian cosmetics industry is gradually making its mark with safe and unique skin care products. If you love natural beauty products, this will be an interesting and practical gift choice when returning from Mongolia.

You can find soaps, lotions, shower gels, and shampoos made from ingredients native to the region, such as horse milk (known for its moisturizing and softening properties), sea buckthorn oil (rich in vitamins and antioxidants), yak milk, or essential oils and extracts from local herbs. These products often have a light, natural scent and are advertised as being gentle and suitable for even sensitive skin.

Herbs and Medicinal Plants

With its diverse ecosystem and unspoiled nature, Mongolia is home to a rich source of precious herbs and medicinal plants. Traditional Mongolian medicine, with a long history and influenced by Tibetan medicine, has known how to use these plants for health care and treatment. When traveling to Mongolia, you can find these herbs for sale at local markets or specialized stores.

You can buy dried herbs used to make tea to cool down and improve health, or roots and berries that are believed to have certain medicinal uses according to folk experience. Products such as seabuckthorn oil, famous for its high vitamin C content, or natural lingzhi and cordyceps mushrooms (although quite rare and expensive) are also valuable health gifts. However, when buying herbs and medicinal plants, you should go to reputable addresses with clear origins and learn carefully about their uses and effects to ensure safety and effectiveness. Bringing back some Mongolian herbs is a way for you to bring back the flavor of the mountains and forests and care for the health of your loved ones.

Mongolian Gifts Herbs and medicinal plants include many rare species, such as traditional medicinal plants and natural spices. These products can be herbal packs, herbal teas, or essential oils, bringing health and spiritual benefits.

The diversity of Mongolia’s flora is clearly reflected in these herbs, and is also a testament to the traditional healing methods of this land. Herbal Gifts help take care of health and bring relaxation and a refreshing spirit.

Best things to buy in Mongolia: Traditional Ger Tents

The round, sturdy Ger tent (or yurt) in the middle of the vast steppe is an inseparable image of Mongolian culture and nomadic life. Bringing back a miniature Ger tent model is a great way for you to preserve this unique symbol and recall your experiences in the land of Genghis Khan.

This will be the most meaningful gift you should try, you will experience the feeling of building a real Ger tent with your own hands. Visitors will have the opportunity to learn about the structure of a traditional house that anyone traveling to Mongolia will experience at least once. Ger tents have been used by Mongolian nomads for 3000 years and have maintained that tradition until now. Ger has a simple structure with an extremely warm outer shell made of sheep’s wool and wooden walls, pillars, and roof to build a solid house. The small, pretty tents designed by the buyer’s own hands will create an extremely enjoyable feeling, this is a special souvenir if your loved ones receive a gift made by your own hands.

These models are often meticulously crafted from materials such as wood, felt, leather or other synthetic materials, simulating the structure and typical shape of a real Ger tent, from the round frame, support bars to the canvas covering the outside and the small door. There are many different sizes, from small, pretty models for the table to larger, more detailed versions.

A Ger tent model is not only a beautiful decoration, bearing the Mongolian cultural mark for your home, but also a meaningful gift that reminds you of the coziness, community and lifestyle in harmony with nature of the nomads. You can easily find these models at souvenir shops, handicraft markets in Ulaanbaatar or other tourist destinations.

Traditional Costumes (Hat, Belt, Bag, Clothes,… ) of Mongolian People

Hat is a very respected outfit of Mongolian people. Hats and belts of Mongolian men are always kept in higher places and are not allowed to be placed on the ground. In the past, hats represented the social status of Mongolians. There are about 400 hats with different designs, shapes, and purposes, classified by people according to season, ethnicity, and gender. Tourists should buy Toortsog hats when traveling to Mongolia, winter hats made from Loovuuz animal fur. Or you can buy sheep wool sweaters and extremely unique jewelry here as gifts.

Traditional costumes of Mongolia, especially the Deel clothing, are not only clothes to cover the body but also a work of art, reflecting the history, culture, and harsh climate of this land. Bringing home a traditional costume or stylized details is a unique way to preserve memories of Mongolia.

The Deel is a long, diagonally buttoned cloak or square lapels, usually made from silk, brocade, cotton or thicker winter fabrics, with rich, vibrant colors and patterns. The Deel is accompanied by a cloth belt (bus) wrapped around the waist, which not only keeps the wearer warm, but also creates an accent and shows status or the occasion. The design of the Deel is very smart, being spacious enough for the wearer to move comfortably when riding or working, but discreet enough to withstand the cold and wind of the steppe.

Accessories

In addition to the impressive Deel costumes, traditional accessories are also great gift options, bearing the imprint of nomadic culture and the ingenuity of Mongolian craftsmen.

Hats: Mongolians have many different types of hats, suitable for each season, gender and festival occasion. You can find warm fur hats for winter, felt hats with wide brims, or elaborately decorated pointed hats used in ceremonies. Each hat not only protects from the sun and keeps warm but is also a cultural symbol.

Shoes (Gutul): The traditional Mongolian Gutul shoes are very characteristic with the curved toe. The shoes are usually made of sturdy cowhide, decorated with patterns and are highly durable. A pair of miniature Gutul or other leather products such as wallets, bags inspired by Gutul are also interesting gifts.

Belt (Bus): As mentioned, the belt is an indispensable accessory when wearing Deel. Belts made of silk, colorful brocade or leather with elaborate carvings and metal inlays not only fix the outfit but also show the sophistication and sometimes the status of the wearer.

Other accessories: In addition, you can also find nomadic-style silver jewelry, small leather bags, knife cases, or decorative items made from bones, horns… which are also very unique and imbued with Mongolian identity.

Morin Khuur

Morin Khuur, also known as horsehead harp, is a unique traditional musical instrument of Mongolia. The melodious, shrill sound of Morin Khuur paints a picture of the vast steppe and the nomadic life of the people here. This instrument has two strings made from horsehair, a wooden trapezoidal body and a long, curved neck that simulates a horse’s head, containing many legends and cultural values. Therefore, the Morin Khuur, in addition to being a familiar musical instrument, is a symbol of positive energy and good things, and also serves as a valuable souvenir to preserve beautiful memories of Mongolia.

Silverware

Silverware is one of the typical souvenirs of Mongolia. People here, especially men, often carry food or tea containers made from silver. The tradition of entertaining distinguished guests with tea in silver bowls also contributes to the cultural value of these exquisite handicrafts. Today, tourists can find many types of silver dishes with diverse designs for men, women and children. Exquisite motifs or engraving a personal name on the gift will make it more unique and meaningful than ever.

Hats

The hat is one of the most important and respected costumes of the Mongolians. Along with the men’s belt, the hat is always placed in high places such as on a shelf and is never allowed to touch the ground. According to traditional concepts, the hat is an item that symbolizes the social status and power of a man and therefore the whole family.

In fact, in Mongolia there are more than 400 different types of hats with many shapes and uses, classified by ethnicity, season and gender. Of which, the winter hat made from fur is probably the most popular classification that tourists can find in most stores in this country.

Wooden puzzles

Famous for their sophisticated carpentry techniques, the Mongolians have created impressive wooden puzzles – Burr Puzzles. Not just a game for children, these skillfully connected wooden blocks require players to use logical thinking, creativity and meticulous observation to conquer. If you intend to challenge your intelligence and explore the unique culture of this country, the Mongolian Jigsaw Museum with more than 5,000 unique artifacts will be an ideal destination, worthy of a visit on the journey of tourists from all over the world.

What souvenirs to buy in Mongolia: Kazakh Embroidered Bags

Thanks to the abundant raw materials from the livestock industry, Mongolia is considered a paradise for leather products. Tourists from all over the world can find countless sophisticated, high-class handicraft products made from animal skin including wallets, shoes, handbags and belts, all meticulously designed at reasonable prices. In particular, the embroidered leather bag, also known as the Kazakh bag, is one of the luxurious souvenirs with a strong Mongolian imprint, currently sold in many stores in the capital city of Ulaanbaatar.

Where to shop in Mongolia? Suggestions for Quality Mongolian Gift Shops

Ulaanbaatar is a shopping paradise with everything from bustling open-air village food markets, street vendors and local shops to shopping malls and specialty stores in the city. Prices here are also diverse and rich, sometimes tourists can buy unbelievable bargains after bargaining, sometimes tourists come across extremely expensive luxury items. But in general, exploring Mongolia, tourists will find countless traditional handicrafts, beautiful clothes, jewelry, antiques, household items and more.

State Department Store Ikh Delguur

Located in Ulaanbaatar, Ikh Delguur, or “Big Store” in Mongolian, is the ideal destination for those looking for a unique shopping experience. This place is considered a colorful symphony, where visitors can find exquisite souvenirs, gorgeous traditional costumes, valuable books about Mongolia, or high-quality cashmere and famous Erdenet carpets. Stepping into Ikh Delguur, tourists will be quickly impressed by the diversity of products on sale here – where each stall is a world of its own, offering unique experiences.

This is a large supermarket opened in 1921, with a wide range of products such as: beauty products, clothing, personal items, food, etc. This is a one-stop shop if you don’t have time or don’t want to shop at many stores.

The State Department Store, opened in 1921, is an ideal destination for shopping for Mongolian Gifts. With a variety of products from beauty, clothing to personal items and food, this store is the perfect choice for you to find unique Mongolian gifts in one shopping trip. Tourists can easily choose special and convenient gifts right here without having to move to many different stores.

• Address: State Department Store, CHD – 3 khoroo, Ulaanbaatar 15172, Mongolia
• Phone: +976 9931 3636
• Hours: 10 AM–9 PM

Egshiglen Magnai

Egshiglen Magnai, located in the vibrant capital of Ulaanbaatar, is an ideal destination for those who love traditional Mongolian music. It brings together more than 40 talented artisans, with a burning passion for traditional musical instruments such as Morin khuur, fiddle, lute, flute, etc.

Coming to Egshiglen Magnai, visitors will be able to admire the exquisitely crafted musical instruments and have the opportunity to experience their magical sounds through songs telling stories, legends and the soul of the Mongolian people. In particular, Egshiglen Magnai also accepts custom orders, giving visitors the opportunity to own unique musical instruments with a strong personal touch. This is considered an extremely meaningful souvenir for those who love Mongolian music and culture.

• Address: 4th to 5th floors of the Chinugen Building in the Chingeltei district, 1r horoo, Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia, 00479.
• Opening hours: Monday – Friday: 9am – 8pm; Saturday – Sunday: 10am – 7pm.

Mary & Martha Mongolia

Mary & Martha Mongolia is a must-visit destination when you come to Mongolia and want to buy Mongolian Gifts. This store is famous for its exquisitely handcrafted souvenirs by local people. Each product here bears the mark of Mongolian culture, from cashmere to traditional decorations. With enthusiastic staff and reasonable prices, Mary & Martha Mongolia ensures to bring you quality and memorable gifts.

This is a large souvenir store that anyone traveling to Mongolia must visit, with a variety of items skillfully handcrafted by local people. This place is highly appreciated by tourists for its quality gifts, reasonable prices, enthusiastic and kind staff.

Gobi shop

Gobi is a small shop but worth a visit if you love Mongolian Gifts made from Cashmere. Here, you will find a wide range of products from wool coats, hats to gloves, all made from high-quality Cashmere. The store stands out for its most reasonable prices on Cashmere products. Occasionally, Gobi holds promotions such as Black Friday, which is a great opportunity for you to shop for Mongolian gifts at a discount during your trip.

The store is a bit small in size, but this will be a great shopping spot if you want to buy Cashmere products. It is a huge store that has everything from wool coats, hat accessories, gloves, etc. The Cashmere products here can be said to be the most reasonable in the stores. But there are often Black Friday promotions here, who knows, you will be the lucky one to travel to Mongolia and find cheap items.

• Address: Industrial St, HUD – 3 khoroo, Ulaanbaatar 17062, Mongolia
• Hours: 9 AM–8 PM

Narantuul Market

Naran Tuul Market, also known as the black market, is a large and bustling open-air market in Ulaanbaatar where you can find many interesting Mongolian souvenirs. With four floors of shopping and a rich food court, it is an ideal destination to experience the hustle and bustle of daily life in Mongolia.

This is a large open-air market known locally as the black market. It is a four-story shopping mall and also has a food court. But be careful and keep your valuables and money safe because there are pickpockets here. Even if you don’t buy anything, it is worth a visit to see the daily life of Mongolians.

While the market has a great selection of items, be careful with your belongings as there is a risk of pickpockets. Take the time to visit and get a feel for the local lifestyle, even if you don’t intend to shop. This is also a great place to find Mongolian souvenirs. Don’t forget that you can use US dollars instead of Mongolian currency for convenience.

• Address: WW5X+M7J, BZD – 42 khoroo, Ulaanbaatar 13336, Mongolia
• Phone: +976 7711 7711
• Hours: 9 AM–7 PM/Tuesday: Closed

Seven Summits

Seven Summits is a leading outdoor and adventure store, specializing in high-quality, durable imported gear that can withstand the rigors of rural Mongolia. It is also an official distributor of Canadian footwear brand Baffin and performance apparel brand Canada Goose, and offers recreational and industrial products from both brands. In addition, the store is also an official supplier of quality European brands such as Vaude (offering a wide range of outdoor clothing and equipment), Meindl (shoes), Katadyn (water filtration systems), Edelrid (climbing, safety and ropes) and Julbo (quality eyewear). In particular, Seven Summits is widely known as the distributor of Zebec products – a Korean water sports specialist, providing rafts, kayaks and water safety equipment.

• Address: Peace Avenue Opposite of State department store, SBD – 4 khoroo, Ulaanbaatar 14250, Mongolia
• Phone: +976 7755 1111
• Hours: 10 AM–9 PM

Mongolian Quilting Center

The Patchwork Center has long been known as a place to help Mongolian women make their dreams come true. Established in 2008, the center has a noble mission: to empower disadvantaged women in this country with embroidery and handicraft skills. The products they create are both a source of income to cover their living expenses and a testament to their extraordinary willpower and passion for art.

Therefore, shopping for exquisite handicrafts here is also a practical action to join hands to support disadvantaged but talented women. In particular, the center also opens embroidery classes, welcoming those who want to explore and preserve this unique traditional cultural beauty.

• Address: Seoul St, SBD – 5 khoroo, Ulaanbaatar 14253, Mongolia
• Phone: +976 9909 9930
• Hours: 10 AM–5 PM/Sunday, Monday: Closed

Max Mall

Max Mall is known as a modern meeting place in the heart of the capital. Ideally located near Ganden Monastery, Max Mall attracts visitors with its harmonious combination of modern style and local identity. This high-rise building offers a diverse shopping experience with famous European brands, quality imported goods and unique local products.

Not only that, Max Mall also owns a rich culinary area with restaurants serving Western and Mongolian dishes. In particular, modern toilets, attractive Burger King on the 4th floor and a convenient supermarket in the basement ensure to bring visitors a comfortable and enjoyable experience.

• Address: Amarsanaa Rd, BGD – 16 khoroo, Ulaanbaatar 16040, Mongolia
• Phone: +976 7777 2929
• Hours: 10 AM–9 PM

Tsagaan Alt Wool Shop

Tsagaan Alt is another unique non-profit shop in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia, specializing in selling exquisite handmade products made of felt. Here, tourists will have the opportunity to own unique, colorful and culturally rich nomadic items, from warm slippers to funny toys for children. Each product is created by the talented hands of local artisans, showing meticulousness and dedication in every stitch.

What makes Tsagaan Alt special is that all profits from the store are used to help artisans and their families in Selenge and Darkhan maintain their traditional professions and improve their lives. Therefore, when shopping here, visitors will not only get unique souvenirs but also contribute to helping and supporting the local community financially.

• Address: WW84+4C4, SBD – 4 khoroo, Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia
• Phone: +976 11 31 8591
• Hours: 10 AM–7 PM

Additionally, you can check out these places if you are nearby: Mongolian Quilting Centre, Ulaanbaatar Department Store, BioAmidral Store, Tsagaan Alt Wool Shop, Lhamour, Evseg,… You can use US Dollars instead of Mongolian currency to shop comfortably.

Some best day tours, trips, activities and transfer services, tickets in, from and to Mongolia you can refer to

• 10D9N Mongolian Reindeer Adventure
• 9D8N Central Mongolia Tour
• 5Day tremendous moment in Mongolia
• 8D7N Gobi Desert Tour in South Mongolia
• Enjoy the Snow Mountains and Glaciers in Mongolia
• Private Guided Day Tour of Baotou, Inner Mongolia (Xilamuren Grassland + Equestrian Experience)
• 2-Day Tour of Ulanbutong Grassland in Inner Mongolia
• Depart from Ordos, explore the mausoleum of Genghis Khan
• 6-Day Tour of Grassland Adventure in Hohhot, Inner Mongolia
• White stupa & Khongor Els Multi-day Desert & Cultural Tour
• Gobi and Grassland Mongolia 7N8D

Read more Mongolia travel guide here.