Traveling to Mongolia: what things tourists are forbidden to do

The country of Mongolia is not among the leading tourist destinations, but every year it receives many tourists interested in its ancient history. And this is not surprising, as it is a country of nomads, yaks, and incredible landscapes.

However, visitors are advised to respect the local culture and avoid behavior that could be considered offensive. There are certain things you should never do in Mongolia, writes NewsBytes..

Travelers are advised not to equate Mongolian norms with Chinese ones, as these countries may share cultural and historical ties, but they are two different countries with their own unique traditions, customs, and social norms. Equating Mongolian traditions with Chinese traditions is not only incorrect, but may also be disrespectful to the Mongolian people. Try to understand and appreciate the unique aspects of each culture and avoid making assumptions or generalizations.

Tourists are warned not to point at someone with their index finger, as this is considered disrespectful in Mongolia. Instead, it's best to use your entire palm when pointing in a direction, object, or pointing at someone. This gesture not only shows respect but also conveys a sense of openness and inclusiveness.

In Mongolia, always remove your coat and other warm clothing before sitting down to eat. To Mongolians, leaving your coat on means you think they are not providing adequate warmth in their home. By removing your coat and other warm clothes, you not only show respect for your host and their home, but also demonstrate an understanding of Mongolian culture and customs.

Tourists are reminded that language can be a powerful tool for cultural exchange and connection, but it can also create barriers and exclusion. To avoid misunderstandings and offense, it is important to be aware of the languages spoken around you. Long conversations in your native language in the presence of locals who do not understand it can be perceived as impolite and alienating.

Finally, it is emphasized that in Mongolian culture, fire is more than just a source of heat and light and is considered sacred and has a deep symbolic meaning. Therefore, it is very important to treat the fire with respect and not to pour water on it, step on it, or, even worse, throw garbage on it. Such actions can offend the Mongols, who are very reverent of fire.

If you prefer a more emotionally balanced trip and are not looking for primitive routes, we recommend reading the article about soft travel in TravelWise.