In most parts of Mongolia, the tap water isn’t safe to drink without boiling or filtering first.
In Mongolia, public water supplies are often untreated or exposed to contamination from aging infrastructure and lack of filtration. Rural areas are particularly unreliable.
Quick Overview
Tap Water Concern: Our Advice Tap Water Drinkable? ❌ No, use bottled water Common Risks: Bacteria, parasites, viruses Brush Teeth? ❌ No, use bottled water Wash Fruits/Vegetables? ❌ No, use filtered or bottled water Use Ice in Drinks? ❌ No, avoid unless purified Safe to Shower? ✅ Yes Filter Bottle Needed? ✅ Strongly recommended
Information compiled from CDC, WHO, and official water providers across Mongolia.
Worried About Tap Water? Consider Using a Filter Bottle
The best water filter bottles do three things: protect your health, protect the planet, and protect your wallet. We don’t sell them ourselves, but we’ve analyzed and compared models based on how well they filter contaminants, how easy they are to carry, and how often travelers actually use them. The ones we trust most are featured below.
Health Risks for Travelers
Although residents may regularly consume the tap water without issues, travelers are often more susceptible to waterborne diseases due to differences in immunity and water treatment protocols. Contaminants that may be harmless to locals can cause digestive problems for foreign visitors.
Common health concerns include:
- Traveler’s diarrhea from unfamiliar bacteria like E. coli
- Parasites such as Giardia or Cryptosporidium, especially in untreated water sources
- Viral infections including hepatitis A and norovirus, often linked to poor sanitation
- Exposure to heavy metals or chemical pollutants in areas with inadequate water regulation
Risks are elevated in:
- Rural areas lacking centralized water treatment
- Flood-prone regions with compromised infrastructure
- Older buildings with neglected rooftop tanks or corroded plumbing
Even if the water appears clear, it may contain microbial or chemical contaminants that can lead to short-term gastrointestinal illness or more serious long-term health effects.
If you experience persistent symptoms while traveling in Mongolia, consult a local doctor or pharmacist. In many tourist areas, English-speaking care is available.
More About Tap Water in Mongolia
Access to clean water is a challenge in Mongolia. To help, “smart” water kiosks have been introduced to deliver safely managed drinking water to underserved areas. In Ulaanbaatar’s ger districts, projects are focused on improving access to water, sanitation, and hygiene, with strong involvement from local governments in managing these services.
FAQs About Tap Water in Mongolia
Is it safe to brush your teeth with tap water?
If the tap water isn’t safe to drink, it’s also best not to use it for brushing your teeth—use bottled water instead.
Can I use tap water to wash my face?
Unless your skin is extra sensitive, rinsing your face with tap water in Mongolia is unlikely to cause harm.
Is it safe to use ice in drinks?
If the tap water isn’t safe to drink, the ice probably isn’t either—so skip it unless you know it’s filtered.
Can I shower safely with tap water?
Many travelers shower without concern, as long as they avoid ingesting any of the water.
Even clean-looking water can be harsh on your skin when you’re abroad. A travel shower filter screws on in seconds and can help. Just check that the showerhead isn’t recessed or built into the wall—you’ll need access to connect it. This one’s a traveler favorite for a reason. Click here to check it out.
Can I wash fruits and vegetables with tap water?
Contaminated tap water can linger on produce, so use safe water to avoid getting sick.
Is bottled water expensive in Mongolia?
While prices vary by region, bottled water is usually a budget-friendly option in Mongolia.
Mongolia is often visited along with China, Russia, or Kazakhstan—especially on transcontinental train or land routes. Check each country’s approach to water safety before you go.