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As Soviet rule ended, homosexual acts in Mongolia were made legal in 2002. A lack of homosexual tradition and visibility of gay culture does not rule out gay travel to Mongolia as a vacation plan.
Once led by Genghis Khan, Mongolia is situated between powerhouses Russia and China with Ulaanbaatar serving as a unique capital city. Known as a nation of nomadic people, the country is the least densely populated place and open to visitors looking to explore the lakes, mountains, Gobi desert and bands of wild horses.
The gay scene may be unheard of, but the country can still be a popular destination for gay vacations.
It is best to start your journey in Ulaanbaatar, where guesthouses typically serve as travel agencies that can help you plan your trip. It is best to travel into the capital and spend several days planning your countrywide excursions. There is an international airport, but consider taking the train from Beijing in order to view the beautiful countryside.
While staying in Ulaanbaatar, you can expect to pay roughly twenty dollars per night (for double rooms) if staying in a guesthouse.
From there, the options are plentiful. For shorter stays, consider a local home stay near Terelj National Park, just two hours from the capital and an easy ride to the Gobi Desert. You might also want to think about a trip to Genghis Khan's ancient capital or adding a week to head north for spectacular lake, mountain and river excursions.
Longer stays of a month or longer are ideal for a big loop of the country to include the aforementioned destinations all in one trip.
While in Ulaanbaatar, you will want to see the Natural History Museum and The Culture Show, which include the spectacular talent of Mongolia's National Symphony Orchestra. Also be sure to find traditional Mongolian fare on the cheap at places like Mongol Shabu.
While Mongolia may be an incredible, off the beaten path destination for gay couples and groups, homosexuality is not necessarily received well. There are few religious barriers to it; however, a general lack of gay context leaves a general sense of naiveté on the subject.
There are other options available besides traveling on your own. Various tour groups, specializing in gay tour groups, offer vacations in Mongolia.
Typically they served as a way to see the "best of" the country and highlights include the Gobi Desert, ancient capital of Kharakorum, local camel farms and the Terelj National Park. With various activities like horseback riding along the Mongolian Steppe and cultural activities like traditional Naadam festivals, they appeal to all types of travelers.
One of the appeals specific to these types of tour groups includes parties and visits to local LGBT community groups as a way to see firsthand the gay scene in Mongolia. Beautiful vistas, diverse geography and an incredibly unique culture and history, appeal to the interests of anybody. Whether traveling independently or as part of a tour, travel to Mongolia is a unique gay destination.
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