Internet, Mobile, and Plug
Preparing for Your Trip to Mongolia: Internet, Mobile, and Electrical Advice
When traveling to Mongolia, staying connected is quite manageable in cities but can be challenging in rural areas. Tourists often carry electronic devices like phones, cameras, and laptops, but overlook essential details like voltage compatibility and SIM options. Here’s what you need to know before you go:
Electricity and Plug Information
Voltage: 220V, 50Hz (same as most of Europe, Asia, and Australia)
Plug Types: Type C (two round pins)
Tip: Bring a universal travel adapter that supports 220V and round-pin plugs.
Device Compatibility: Ensure your electronics (e.g. phone chargers, razors, hair dryers) support 220V. If not, you’ll need a voltage converter.
Charging Access: Electricity is typically available in hotels and tourist ger camps. In remote areas, access may be limited—carry a fully charged power bank.
Mobile & Internet Access
Main Mobile & Internet Providers:
Mongolia has four major providers that offer 4G LTE services in cities and towns:
| Provider | Hotline | Website |
|---|---|---|
| Mobicom | 2222, 1800-2222 | mobicom.mn |
| Unitel | 1414, 7777-8888 | unitel.mn |
| Skytel | 1515, 1800-1515 | skytel.mn |
| G-Mobile | 3636, 9810-3636 | gmobile.mn |
Buying a SIM Card
Where to buy: Airport, official branches, convenience stores in Ulaanbaatar
Cost: ~$7–$10 USD for the SIM, with top-ups available
Plans:
Prepaid data SIMs: Easy, flexible for short stays (typically 15-60 GB for $7–$30 USD)
Postpaid SIMs: Cheaper per GB but require local ID and are better for long stays
Tip: Mobicom and Unitel have the best nationwide coverage, including some rural areas.
Wi-Fi Availability
Hotels: Most 3–5 star hotels in Ulaanbaatar and provincial centers offer free Wi-Fi
Tourist Ger Camps: Some offer limited Wi-Fi, often only in the dining area
Public Places: Free Wi-Fi is available in major shopping malls, cafés, and airports
Rural Areas: Internet and even mobile reception can be unavailable in remote steppe or desert areas (e.g., Gobi, Altai, Khuvsgul). Download maps and offline content before heading out.
Travel Tips for Staying Connected
Download maps, guides, and translation apps before your trip
Bring multiple charging cables, a universal adapter, and a power bank (10,000mAh+ recommended)
Buy a local SIM for affordable data if you plan to explore beyond cities
In remote areas, don’t rely on having internet—plan ahead
phone usage in Mongolia
