Do I need special permits to visit Khovd?

No special permits for Khovd Province itself, but border areas near China and the Altai Tavan Bogd National Park require park permits obtainable in Khovd City or through tour operators.

What is the best way to experience eagle hunting culture?

Visit during the Golden Eagle Festival in October in nearby Bayan-Ölgii, or arrange visits with Kazakh families through reputable tour operators in Khovd City who respect cultural traditions.

Are credit cards widely accepted?

No, cash (Mongolian tögrög) is essential everywhere. Bring enough currency as ATMs are only in Khovd City and may not always work. US dollars can be exchanged at banks.

Is English widely spoken?

Very limited outside tourist hotels and some tour operators in Khovd City. Learn basic Mongolian phrases or travel with a guide/interpreter, especially in rural areas.

What should I pack for Khovd?

Layered clothing for temperature extremes, sturdy hiking boots, sun protection, insect repellent, water purification, power bank (electricity unreliable), gifts for hosts (sweets, school supplies), and all necessary medications.

Most nationalities need a visa for Mongolia. Check with the nearest embassy. Visa-on-arrival is not available.

What currency is used?

Mongolian Tögrög (MNT). Cash is king; ATMs are limited in Khovd. Bring enough cash.

Can I use credit cards?

Only in major hotels and some shops in Khovd city. Elsewhere, cash is required.

Warm layers, waterproof jacket, sturdy boots, sun protection, insect repellent, and a sleeping bag.

Is it safe to drink tap water?

No, drink bottled or boiled water. Avoid ice in drinks.

Do I need travel insurance?

Yes, comprehensive insurance with medical evacuation is essential.

Are there ATMs in Khovd?

Yes, a few ATMs in Khovd city, but they may run out of cash. Bring enough from Ulaanbaatar.

What is the internet like?

Limited and slow. Mobile data (4G) works in towns. Wi-Fi is available in some hotels.

Wild camping is allowed but respect local land. Ask permission near herder camps.

What wildlife might I see?

Snow leopards, ibex, argali sheep, eagles, and marmots. Keep a safe distance.

Is it possible to visit without a guide?

Possible but challenging. A guide is recommended for safety and cultural insight.

Khovd

ProvinceMongolia, Asia

Khovd is a STATE in Mongolia, Asia.

Khovd Province in western Mongolia is a breathtaking frontier of diverse landscapes and rich cultural heritage. This region is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, from the snow-capped peaks of the Mongol Altai Mountains to the vast Khovd River valley and the mysterious Khar Us Lake. Travelers are drawn to Khovd's unique ethnic mosaic, home to Kazakh, Uriankhai, Zakhchin, and Torguud communities who maintain traditional nomadic lifestyles. Key attractions include the magnificent Altai Tavan Bogd National Park with its glaciers and highest peaks, the ancient petroglyphs at Tsagaan Salaa-Baga Oigor UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the historic Khovd City Museum showcasing regional artifacts. Adventurers can experience eagle hunting with Kazakh falconers, trek to Potanin Glacier, or explore the dramatic sand dunes of Mankhan. Khovd offers authentic cultural encounters through Naadam festivals, throat singing performances, and staying in traditional ger camps. The province's remote location preserves Mongolia's wild spirit while providing access to some of Central Asia's most spectacular wilderness areas.

Best time to visit Khovd

June to September offers the most favorable conditions. July-August provide warm temperatures (15-25°C) ideal for trekking and festivals including Naadam in July. September features beautiful autumn colors and fewer tourists. Winter (November-March) is extremely cold (-20 to -40°C) but offers unique experiences like eagle hunting festivals. Spring (April-May) can be windy with melting snow making roads difficult.

October

Now

Typical for October

Weather: Cool 0 to 10°C

Travel notes

Crowds: Low
Prices: Low

Cold nights, some services close

Know before you go

Getting there

HVD

Khovd Airport

Domestic

5 km away

ULN

Chinggis Khaan International Airport

International

1500 km away

Getting around

"Transportation options are limited. In Khovd City, walking or taxis are available (negotiate fares). For regional travel, 4x4 vehicles with drivers are essential for rough terrain. No car rental agencies exist - arrange through tour operators or guesthouses. Local minibuses (marshrutkas) connect main towns but schedules are irregular. Domestic flights connect Khovd Airport to Ulaanbaatar. Horse and camel treks are popular for remote areas. Navigation apps like Maps.me work offline. Fuel stations are sparse outside towns - carry extra fuel."

Stay connected

WiFi speed

10 Mbps

Mobile data

Fair

WiFi

Limited to hotels in Khovd city

Local SIM

Local SIM available at airport or shops from $5

Calling code

+976

Stay safe

Overall

7/10

Low crime but poor roads and extreme weather are main risks. Scams are rare.

Night safety

6/10

Low crime but poor roads and extreme weather are main risks. Scams are rare.

Transport

5/10

Scam risk

7/10

"Khovd is generally safe with low crime rates. Exercise normal precautions in Khovd City. Remote areas require careful planning due to extreme weather and lack of infrastructure. Avoid traveling alone in wilderness areas; hire local guides. Road accidents are a significant risk due to poor road conditions and livestock on roads. Be cautious around nomadic dogs. Political demonstrations are rare but avoid if they occur. Scams are uncommon but negotiate prices clearly for services. Border areas with China require special permits. Weather can change rapidly in mountains - prepare for all conditions."

Police

102

Ambulance

103

Fire

101

Tourist Police

105

Entry and health

Health information

"Medical facilities in Khovd are limited. Khovd Provincial Hospital provides basic emergency care, but serious conditions require evacuation to Ulaanbaatar. Travelers should carry comprehensive travel insurance with medical evacuation coverage. Common health concerns include altitude sickness in mountain areas, tick-borne encephalitis in forested regions, and gastrointestinal issues from water/food. Recommended vaccinations: routine vaccines plus Hepatitis A, Typhoid, Rabies (if interacting with animals). Bring a well-stocked medical kit including altitude medication if trekking. Water should be boiled or purified. Hospitals may require cash payment upfront."

Culture

Local customs

"Respect nomadic traditions: always approach gers from the front, don't step on the threshold. Accept offered food/drink (usually airag or tea). Use right hand for giving/receiving. Dress modestly, especially when visiting monasteries. Tipping is not traditional but appreciated in tourist contexts (5-10%). Remove shoes when entering homes. Ask permission before photographing people. Kazakh eagle hunters may expect payment for photos. Alcohol consumption should be moderate. Respect sacred ovoo (cairns) - walk clockwise and add a stone."

MongolianKazakh

Costs and practicals

Currency

Mongolian Tögrög (MNT) · ₮

Cost level

Budget

Meals

$3-5 | a cheap local meal costs around $3-5

Hotels

$20-50 | budget hotels range $20-50/night

Local transport

$1-2 | local bus ride ~$1-2

Cost notes

Prices are lower than Ulaanbaatar. Guided tours and 4WD hire are extra.

Timezone

Asia/Hovd +07:00 (GMT)

More facts

Population

87,000

Area

76,133 km²

Government

Provincial government (aimag) with soum (district) subdivisions

ISO code

MN-043

Type

Province

Frequently Asked Questions

Also known as: استان خوفد, Lalawigan ng Khovd, Xovd vilayəti, Província de Khovd, ख़ोव्द प्रांत, ᠬᠣᠪᠳᠤ, ホブド, Provinsi Khovd, خوفد اوستانی, Kobdoski, Хоўд, حوۆد, Hovd, Ховд аймағы, Aimag Khovd, صوبہ خوود, Chowd, Chovdo aimakas, 科布多省, Вилояти Ховд, 허브드주, مقاطعة خوفد, Ховд, חובד, Khovd Séng, Hovdi aimakk, Ховд ᠬᠣᠪᠳᠤ, خوفد, Chowd-Aimag, MN-043, Provincia di Hovd, Chovd, ხოვდის აიმაკი, خوود صوبہ, 科布多盟, Hovd tartomány, Khovd, Xīnbā'ěrhǔ Yòu Qí, Khovd Province, Ajmak kobdoski, Provincia de Hovd, Ховд аймаг, ホブド県, Ajmag Hovd, Uinchi sumu, Uyenchi, Uyenchi Somon, Uyenchi Suma, Uyonch, Üyenchi Suma, Üyönch

Major HubAdventureCultural ImmersionHikingWildlifeOff the Beaten PathMountainsDesertNomadic Culture