Gobi Factory Store & Tour: Experience Mongolian Cashmere Production First-Hand

Want to see how world-class Mongolian cashmere is made? The Gobi Factory Store in Ulaanbaatar offers more than just shopping—it provides a unique opportunity to tour the production facility and witness the journey from raw cashmere fiber to finished luxury garment.

Why Visit the Gobi Factory Store?

Unlike traditional retail stores, the Gobi Factory Store gives you direct access to where the magic happens. Located at Gobi's manufacturing facility, this store combines factory-direct shopping with an educational experience that reveals the intricate process behind Mongolia's most famous export.

The Gobi Factory Tour Experience

The factory tour is the highlight of any visit. During the guided tour, you'll discover:

• Raw Material Processing: See how raw cashmere fibers are sorted, cleaned, and prepared for production.
• Spinning and Dyeing: Watch skilled workers transform fibers into yarn and observe the dyeing process that creates Gobi's signature colors.
• Knitting and Weaving: Witness both traditional hand-knitting techniques and modern machinery working in harmony.
• Quality Control: Learn about Gobi's rigorous inspection standards that ensure every piece meets international luxury standards.
• Finishing Touches: See how garments are finished, pressed, and prepared for sale.

Shopping at the Gobi Factory Store

After the tour, browse the factory store for exclusive deals and selections:

Factory Store Advantages

• Factory Prices: Enjoy direct-from-manufacturer pricing, often lower than flagship retail stores.
• Exclusive Items: Find factory-exclusive products and special editions not available elsewhere.
• Full Product Range: Access to complete collections including sweaters, scarves, blankets, coats, and accessories.
• Second-Quality Bargains: Discover slightly imperfect items at significant discounts—perfect for budget-conscious shoppers.

What to Expect During Your Visit

Tour Duration: Factory tours typically last 30-60 minutes, depending on group size and production schedule.

Booking: It's recommended to call ahead and book your factory tour in advance, especially during peak tourist season (June-September).

Photography: Policies vary, so ask your guide about photography rules before the tour.

Language: Tours are often available in English, making them accessible to international visitors.

Best Time to Visit

The factory operates on weekdays, so plan your visit Monday through Friday to see the production in full swing. Morning visits (9-11 AM) often provide the most active production viewing, as workers begin their shifts and machinery is fully operational.

How to Get There

The Gobi Factory is located in Ulaanbaatar's industrial district. Many hotels can arrange transportation, or you can take a taxi from central Ulaanbaatar. Some tour operators include the Gobi Factory as part of city tours.

Tips for Your Visit

• Book your factory tour at least a day in advance
• Wear comfortable walking shoes for the factory floor
• Bring cash for factory store purchases (though cards are usually accepted)
• Allow 2-3 hours total for the tour and shopping
• Consider visiting on weekdays for the full production experience
• Ask questions—the guides are knowledgeable and proud to share their craft

Why the Factory Tour is Worth It

The Gobi Factory tour offers invaluable insight into Mongolia's cashmere industry and the craftsmanship behind luxury cashmere products. You'll gain appreciation for the labor-intensive process and understand why genuine Mongolian cashmere commands premium prices worldwide. Plus, you'll shop with confidence knowing exactly how your purchases were made.

Perfect for Gift Shopping

With factory-direct pricing and the ability to see products being made, the Gobi Factory Store is ideal for purchasing gifts. You'll return home with authentic Mongolian cashmere and fascinating stories about how it was created.

Experience the art of cashmere making at the Gobi Factory Store—it's more than shopping, it's a cultural and educational journey into Mongolia's most treasured craft.