Shopping in Mongolia

Introduction

Shopping in Mongolia is more than simply buying souvenirs. It is an opportunity to take home a piece of the country's nomadic heritage, craftsmanship, and contemporary culture.

From world-renowned cashmere and traditional felt products to handmade crafts, artwork, and photography books, Mongolia offers a wide range of unique items that reflect both its ancient traditions and modern creativity.

While modern shopping malls and boutiques can be found throughout Ulaanbaatar, many travelers discover their most meaningful purchases in local workshops, rural communities, and cultural festivals encountered during their journey.

What Mongolia Is Best Known For

Cashmere

Mongolia is one of the world's leading producers of high-quality cashmere.

The country's harsh winters help produce exceptionally fine fibers, making Mongolian cashmere highly valued around the world.

Popular purchases include:

Sweaters
Scarves
Hats
Gloves
Cardigans
Blankets

For guaranteed quality, consider purchasing from established Mongolian brands such as:

Gobi
Goyo
Goyol
Evseg

These companies offer a wide range of products and internationally recognized quality standards.

Felt Products

Felt has been an essential material in Mongolian life for centuries, most famously as the insulation used in traditional gers.

Today, felt is transformed into a wide variety of practical and decorative items.

Popular choices include:

Slippers
Bags
Decorative ornaments
Coasters
Small souvenir gers
Handmade gifts

Felt products are lightweight, durable, and easy to transport.

Traditional Crafts

Mongolia's livestock-based culture has produced a rich tradition of craftsmanship.

Visitors may encounter:

Leather bags and wallets
Horse-themed crafts
Wood carvings
Embroidery
Handmade jewelry
Traditional household items
Morin Khuur (Horsehead Fiddle) souvenirs

Many of these items are produced by small workshops and local artisans.

Art, Photography, and Books

Mongolia has a growing community of artists, photographers, writers, and craftspeople.

Original paintings, prints, photography books, and illustrated publications can be among the most meaningful items to bring home while supporting local creative communities.

Shopping in Ulaanbaatar

Most travelers do their shopping in the capital before departing Mongolia.

State Department Store

Located in the center of Ulaanbaatar, the State Department Store remains one of the easiest places for visitors to purchase:

Souvenirs
Traditional clothing
Cashmere
Crafts
Gifts

The upper floors contain a large selection of products aimed at international visitors.

Cashmere Stores

Ulaanbaatar offers numerous flagship stores and factory outlets specializing in premium cashmere products.

These shops provide the widest selection and the most reliable quality.

Naran Tuul Market

Often called the "Black Market," Naran Tuul is one of Mongolia's largest markets.

Visitors can find:

Traditional clothing
Horse-riding equipment
Hats
Boots
Fabrics
Everyday household items

As with any large market, visitors should keep valuables secure and remain aware of their surroundings.

Shopping in Rural Mongolia

Some of the most memorable purchases are made outside the capital.

Regional festivals, eagle festivals, local Naadams, and artisan markets often feature handmade products created by local families.

Items may include:

Embroidered textiles
Felt crafts
Handmade jewelry
Traditional musical instruments
Regional artwork

Purchasing directly from artisans helps support local communities and preserve traditional skills.

Buying Cashmere: A Few Tips

Cashmere is often one of the most significant purchases visitors make during their trip.

Do

Buy from reputable retailers.
Compare products before purchasing.
Check labels and material information.
Feel the quality and softness of the fabric.

Don't

Assume extremely cheap products are genuine cashmere.
Expect every product labeled "cashmere" to contain 100% cashmere.
Purchase expensive items without comparing alternatives.

As with luxury products anywhere in the world, quality usually reflects price.

Souvenirs Worth Considering

Popular purchases include:

Cashmere products
Felt crafts
Handmade jewelry
Traditional games
Morin Khuur souvenirs
Local artwork
Photography books
Traditional textiles
Handcrafted leather goods

The most meaningful souvenirs are often those connected to personal experiences during your journey.

What Not to Buy

Visitors should avoid purchasing:

Products made from protected wildlife species
Unverified animal parts
Cultural artifacts of uncertain origin
Historical antiques without proper documentation

Mongolia protects important cultural and historical objects, and some items may require export permits before leaving the country.

If in doubt, ask the seller for documentation.

Shipping Large Purchases

Many galleries and specialty stores can assist with international shipping for larger items such as:

Paintings
Carpets
Furniture
Large handicrafts

Shipping costs can sometimes exceed the value of the item, so it is worth checking before making a purchase.

Tips Before You Shop

Leave extra luggage space if you plan to buy cashmere.
Carry cash for smaller vendors and rural markets.
Compare prices before making expensive purchases.
Keep receipts for valuable items.
Check airline restrictions before purchasing knives or oversized goods.
Support local artisans whenever possible.

Shopping as Cultural Discovery

The most meaningful purchases in Mongolia are often not the most expensive ones.

A small felt ornament purchased at a local festival, a handcrafted item bought directly from an artisan, or a photography book discovered in a small gallery may become a more lasting memory than any luxury item.

Shopping in Mongolia is often less about acquiring things and more about taking home a reminder of the people, traditions, and landscapes encountered along the journey.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the most popular thing to buy in Mongolia?

Cashmere is by far the most popular purchase among international visitors.

Is Mongolian cashmere good quality?

Yes. Mongolia is widely recognized as one of the world's leading producers of high-quality cashmere.

Can I use credit cards when shopping?

Most stores in Ulaanbaatar accept international credit cards. Smaller vendors and rural sellers may prefer cash.

Is bargaining common?

Fixed prices are common in modern stores and shopping centers. Bargaining may be possible in some markets, but should always be done politely and respectfully.

Can I export antiques from Mongolia?

Certain historical or cultural objects may require export permits. If purchasing antiques, always verify legal export requirements before buying.

What makes the best souvenir from Mongolia?

That depends on the traveler. For many visitors, the most meaningful souvenirs are items connected to personal experiences, local people, and memorable moments from their journey.