Is Ulaanbaatar Tap Water Safe To Drink?

No, it's not advisable to drink the tap water.

Tap water in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia, often does not meet international drinking water standards due to contamination risks. Many residents rely on bottled or boiled water.

Water Sources
Drinking Fountains

Water sources face pollution from industrial, agricultural, and urban runoff. Treatment infrastructure is improving but still limited, causing potential microbial and chemical hazards.

Visitors and locals are advised to use filtered, boiled, or bottled water for drinking to avoid waterborne illnesses commonly reported in the region.

Last checked: 2025-05-03

Mongolia is ranked as number 74 globally with a score of 61.8% in the water quality EPI research conducted by Yale University.

Source of Water in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia

Ulaanbaatar's tap water primarily comes from surface water sources, including the Tuul and Selbe rivers. These rivers supply the majority of the city's water.

Groundwater wells also contribute to the water supply, especially in certain districts, but are less significant compared to surface water sources.

Water treatment plants process these sources before distribution; however, contamination and infrastructure challenges affect overall water quality in Ulaanbaatar.

Ulaanbaatar Drinking Fountains

Public drinking fountains in Ulaanbaatar generally lack consistent water quality monitoring and may pose health risks due to contamination.

Local authorities advise caution, as microbial and chemical contaminants can be present, making fountains potentially unsafe for direct consumption.

Using bottled or boiled water remains the safer choice for drinking to avoid waterborne illnesses associated with public fountains.

Drinking Water Map

Here is a map showing all the locations of drinking water spots in Ulaanbaatar. You can click on each water drop to open the spot directly in Google Maps for directions.

Nearby Places

About the Author

Hi, I'm Emily Hartman, a researcher and water quality specialist with a background in public health.

I've spent the last few years studying how everyday water systems impact our health, and I'm passionate about making that information clear and useful for everyone.

Safe, clean tap water isn't just my job — it's something I truly care about.

Disclaimer

* The information provided on this website regarding the safety of tap water in Ulaanbaatar is sourced from reputable sources such as the World Health Organization (WHO), local water authorities, and the Environmental Performance Index (EPI) from Yale University. While we strive to ensure accuracy and reliability, it's important to note that water quality can vary over time and may be subject to factors beyond our control. Users are encouraged to verify the current water quality status with local authorities or consult additional resources before making decisions regarding water consumption. We disclaim any liability for actions taken based on the information provided on this website.