Mongolia's currency is the tögrög (MNT, ₮). Cards work widely in Ulaanbaatar, but outside the city you need cash. Withdraw tögrög from bank ATMs in Ulaanbaatar before you leave for the countryside, carry small notes, and keep some clean US dollars or euros as a backup. Khan Bank has the largest branch network in the country, including rural areas (Wikipedia).
Quick answer: Pay by card in Ulaanbaatar hotels, supermarkets and most restaurants. Before a countryside trip, withdraw enough tögrög in small notes for snacks, souvenirs, showers and tips. Tell your bank you are travelling.
Where cards work and where you need cash
| Place | Card | Cash |
|---|---|---|
| Ulaanbaatar hotels, malls and supermarkets | Widely accepted | Rarely needed |
| Restaurants and cafés in Ulaanbaatar | Usually accepted | Useful in small places |
| Markets such as Naran Tuul | Rarely | Needed |
| Provincial towns | Sometimes | Recommended |
| Countryside shops, family stays, showers | Almost never | Needed |
| Tourist ger camps | Some accept cards or transfers if booked ahead | Bring cash for extras |
ATMs
Ulaanbaatar has plenty of ATMs from the major banks, including Khan Bank, Golomt Bank, Trade and Development Bank and XacBank. Provincial centres have ATMs too, but they can run out of cash or refuse foreign cards, so do not rely on them. Withdraw in the city, and check your home bank's foreign withdrawal fees before you go.
Exchanging money
Banks and licensed exchange offices in Ulaanbaatar change US dollars, euros and other major currencies. Bring clean, undamaged notes, as worn or marked notes may be refused. Avoid changing money on the street.
Tipping
Tipping is not a strong local tradition, but on tours it is common and appreciated. Travellers often tip their driver and guide at the end of a trip, and small tips in restaurants are welcome but not expected. See our driver guide for more about travelling with a driver.
More money tips
- Carry small notes: change for large notes can be hard to find in the countryside.
- Keep cash in two places, and your cards separate from it.
- Local QR payment apps are everywhere, but they generally need a Mongolian bank account.
- Keep your home SIM active and use an eSIM for data, so you still receive your bank's security codes.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need cash in Mongolia?
Yes, outside Ulaanbaatar. Cards work in the city, but countryside shops, family stays and markets need cash in tögrög.
Can I use my card at ATMs in Mongolia?
Yes, bank ATMs in Ulaanbaatar generally accept international Visa and Mastercard cards. Withdraw before you leave the city, as rural ATMs are less reliable.
Should I tip in Mongolia?
It is not required, but tipping your driver and guide at the end of a tour is common and appreciated.
Sources
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Planning your budget?
Tell us your route and we will tell you roughly how much cash to bring and where you can pay by card.
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