A layover in Khovd is one of those happy accidents of air travel. Khovd Airport sits just 40 minutes from the city center by Taxi, and even a short visit can be surprisingly rewarding. This guide covers everything you need to get out of the terminal and back in time for your next boarding call.
Quick Checks Before Leaving the Airport
Three things to verify before you walk out of HVD:
- Can you legally enter Mongolia? Some nationalities need a visa even for a few hours. Check your passport’s validity too.
- Do you have enough time? With a 40-minute journey each way by Taxi, you’ll want at least 5-6 hours total to make the trip worthwhile.
- How will you pay? Local currency is the MNT. A travel-friendly debit card with no foreign transaction fees will save you money here.
Things to Do During Your Layover
If you head into Khovd, here are two things worth checking out:
Khovd Provincial Museum is a solid choice if you want to get a feel for the area. You can see the highlights in about an hour without rushing.
Gandantegchinlen Monastery is another option that’s easy to fit into a short visit. Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside HVD, you can spend time at HVD Airport Observation (Waiting Area) or try HVD Souvenir & Essentials Kiosk. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Where to Grab a Meal
- In the city: Nomad Restaurant (Ðомад ÑеÑÑоÑан) and Orgil Restaurant (ÐÑгил РеÑÑоÑан) are both worth a visit if you’re exploring Khovd.
- At the airport: HVD Airport Cafe and HVD Snack & Beverage Counter will get the job done without leaving the terminal.
How to Get Into Khovd
You have two main options for getting from Khovd Airport into town:
- Taxi: About 40 minutes, affordable, and consistent. This is what we recommend for time-conscious travelers.
- Taxi or ride-share: Around 60 minutes in normal traffic. More comfortable for groups or heavy luggage, but pricier and less predictable.
Whichever you choose, keep the return journey in mind. Build in extra time — you do not want to be rushing through security.
Money & Budget Tips
Quick budget math for your Khovd layover:
| Expense | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Round-trip transport | ~$5 |
| Meal | ~$6 |
| Buffer / extras | ~$10 |
| Total | ~$21 |
Keep some small bills handy for tips, street food, and public transport in Khovd.
Luggage Storage Options
Luggage storage options at HVD can vary. Rather than arriving and hoping for the best, look up nearby storage on platforms like Bounce or Stasher ahead of time.
Another option: if you’re only in Khovd for a couple of hours, a compact bag that you can carry comfortably saves you the hassle altogether.
Staying Connected
You’ll find free WiFi at HVD for basic browsing. If you plan to navigate Khovd or use ride-hailing apps, having mobile data is much more convenient. Consider setting up an eSIM through a provider like Airalo or Holafly before your trip — it takes a few minutes and saves you from hunting for SIM card kiosks.
Taking a Break at HVD
Sometimes the best layover plan is no plan at all. If you need sleep at HVD, scope out the quieter gate areas first. Noise-canceling headphones and an eye mask go a long way in a busy terminal.
Lounge access is another option if you want a real seat and maybe a shower. Check Priority Pass or ask at the information desk about day-use rates.
Final Thoughts
There you have it — everything you need to make a layover in Khovd count. The hardest part is usually just deciding to leave HVD. Once you do, you’ll be glad you did.
Keep your flight info handy, budget a buffer for the return, and enjoy the ride.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.