The top 6 Mongolian souvenirs
Mongolian Souvenirs
Planning to bring home a piece of Mongolia? Based on a recent survey of souvenir shops in Ulaanbaatar, here are the six most sought-after local souvenirs — perfect for gifting or keeping as a memory of your adventure.
1. 🧵 Kazakh Embroidery
Beautifully hand-stitched items made by ethnic Kazakh craftswomen in western Mongolia. These include:
- Colorful carpets and table runners
- Handbags, wallets, and passport covers
- Mobile phone cases and coin purses
Each piece is rich in traditional patterns, symbolizing nature, harmony, and hospitality.
2. 🧩 Mongolian Puzzle Games
A fun and brain-teasing gift for kids and adults alike:
- These wooden puzzles often resemble the structure of a ger (yurt)
- Great for developing problem-solving skills
- Made from eco-friendly wood, they make a unique and intellectual souvenir
3. Ankle Bone Game Set (Shagai)
This traditional game is a national pastime:
- A basic set includes four cleaned and polished ankle bones (shagai) from sheep or goats
- Used in various traditional games based on luck and skill
- Often decorated or color-coded for added fun
A symbolic and meaningful gift representing Mongolian childhood and community.
4. ♟️ Felt Chess Game
A portable and traditional take on a global game:
- The board is made from foldable felt
- Chess pieces often feature Mongolian themes (horses, carts, tigers, camels)
- Compact, soft, and easy to travel with
Great for families and chess enthusiasts alike.
5. 🎨 Mongolian Watercolors & Calligraphy
Art lovers will appreciate these authentic souvenirs:
- Watercolor paintings featuring nomadic life, landscapes, and wildlife
- Available in galleries, souvenir shops, and even from street artists
- Vertical Mongolian script calligraphy is gaining popularity as a modern twist on tradition
These make excellent gifts to frame or decorate your home.
6. 🥿 Felt Slippers
A cozy and practical souvenir:
- Handmade from sheep’s wool felt
- Keeps feet warm and dry, especially in cold climates
- Available in a variety of colors and designs
🔍 Tip: Handmade slippers are more durable and of higher quality than mass-produced ones — check stitching and sole thickness when buying.
Bonus Suggestions:
If you want more gift ideas, consider:
- Camel wool scarves or blankets – soft, warm, and lightweight
- Hand-carved wooden horse heads or yurts – great for decoration
- Snuff bottles (Khuurug) – traditional and collectible
- Local teas and dairy products – packaged for travel
- Cashmere products – Mongolia is one of the top producers of high-quality cashmere
No matter what you choose, your souvenir will carry the memory of Mongolia’s unique culture, craftsmanship, and warmth.
