Last updated on October 26, 2025
Yes. Traditional Mongolian yurts, or “gers,” can be legally used as tourist accommodations in Ulaanbaatar, including short-term rentals, as long as hosts obtain the necessary permits and comply with national tourism and environmental regulations.
Gers as Guesthouses: A Legal Path to Cultural Hospitality
In Ulaanbaatar, where the city’s modern skyline meets the vast Mongolian steppe, the traditional ger is finding new life—not just as a home, but as a destination. These circular felt dwellings, long associated with nomadic life, are now being offered as short-term rentals, giving travelers a chance to experience Mongolia’s heritage from the inside out.
And yes, it’s allowed. But it’s not as simple as setting up a tent and welcoming guests. There’s a legal framework that ensures these accommodations are safe, regulated, and respectful of both the environment and cultural traditions.
Gers: A Living Tradition
The ger is a marvel of design—portable, durable, and perfectly suited to Mongolia’s climate. For centuries, it has sheltered nomadic families through harsh winters and scorching summers. Today, many residents of Ulaanbaatar still live in gers, especially in the city’s outer districts.
With tourism on the rise, some locals have transformed their gers into guest accommodations. These rentals often include traditional furnishings, local cuisine, and immersive cultural experiences. It’s a way to share Mongolia’s rich heritage while earning income—and it’s perfectly legal when done properly.
Legal Requirements for Hosting
Mongolia’s tourism and environmental laws provide the foundation for operating any form of tourist accommodation, including gers. According to official regulations, individuals or entities offering lodging to tourists must obtain a permit. This includes ger camps and individual ger rentals.
The Ministry of Environment and Tourism outlines the need for documentation such as fire safety evaluations, sanitation certificates, and land-use agreements. These requirements apply to all types of accommodations, whether it’s a hotel, a guesthouse, or a traditional ger.
Additionally, the law requires that any use of natural resources—including land and timber for construction—be properly documented and certified. This ensures that gers used for tourism are built and operated in compliance with environmental standards.
Hosting a Ger the Right Way
For those interested in listing a ger as a short-term rental, the process begins with registration. Hosts must:
- Apply for a tourism service permit
- Ensure the ger meets safety and sanitation standards
- Comply with zoning and land-use regulations
- Maintain accurate records and guest information
Once approved, hosts can offer a truly unique experience. Many ger rentals in Ulaanbaatar feature traditional décor, wood-burning stoves, and access to local experiences. Some are located in quiet valleys just outside the city, while others sit within urban neighborhoods, offering a blend of tradition and convenience.
Why It Matters
Allowing gers as tourist accommodations isn’t just about expanding lodging options—it’s about preserving culture. By opening their homes to travelers, Mongolians share their way of life, foster cross-cultural understanding, and support sustainable tourism. It’s a model that respects tradition while embracing modern hospitality.
So yes, you can sleep in a Mongolian ger, sip milk tea by the fire, and wake to the sounds of the steppe—all legally and comfortably, thanks to a thoughtful blend of heritage and regulation.
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Sources
МОД БЭЛТГЭХ ЭРХИИН БИЧИГ, ГАРАЛ ҮҮСЛИИН ГЭРЧИЛГЭЭ ОЛГОХ, ТЭДГЭЭРИЙГ ХЭРЭГЛЭХ, ХЯНАЛТ ТАВИХ ЖУРАМ – Legalinfo.mn
https://legalinfo.mn/mn/detail?lawId=205110
Ongoing
Аялал жуулчлалын тухай хууль – Legalinfo.mn
https://legalinfo.mn/mn/detail?lawId=16759637037101
Ongoing