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Mongolia became a Buddhist country in the 16th century, when Tibet had a strong influence in Mongolia.In Ulan Bator you find one of the most important Tibetan Buddhist monasteries: Ganden.Please see my travelogue for more photos of Ganden Monastery.
Nassan’s Guesthouse is right opposite a cinema that screened Mongolian-made movies. We watched one (T1000) and the only other patrons were also guests from Nassan’s Guesthouse. 5 minutes into the movie, the movie attendant switched on the lights and waved a videotape (yes, they are screened from videotapes) sheepishly. Oh, the first one was the wrong movie!! Hahaa… Well, the movie was SO BAD, it was GOOD.
In Ulaan Baator, we found it amusing to see women sitting along the streets or in the middle of the square under the hot, hot sun, with cordless phones nearby. We tested one phone. It worked. I guess, in a city with no public telephones and few mobile phones, there is a demand for phones outside of their homes. If you need to make a call, look out for them.
1. TIME ZONEMongolia situated in 8 hours ahead of GMT.2.RELIGIONTibetan Buddhism is dominant, also elements of Mislims, Christians and Shamanism.3. ELECTRICITYPower is 220V and 50Hz. Sokcets require a two-pin type plug or an adapter.4. DRIVINGTraffic driving regulation on the right.5.LANGUAGEMongolian language6.CURRENCY AND BANKSThe Mongolian national currency is the Tugrik. All major currencies can be exchanged at banks and licensed exchange centers in Ulaanbaatar. Exchange rate (approx) MNT 1130=1 US$ 10th as of February 2003. VISA, MASTER CARD, AMERICAN EXPRESS, JCB and Thomas Cook Travelers Cheques are accepted at banks. Most credit cards are accepted at biggest hotel, restaurant and sepermarkets in Ulaanbaatar.7. WORKING HOURSWorking days: Monday-FridayShops open: 10.00-19.00 Convenient stores due to 24 hours.Banks open: 0.900-13.00 and 14.00-16.00Musuem open: 10.00-15.00Most bars...
When I stayed in Mongolia I was lucky enough to stay in the home of Mongolian people. One day they dressed me up in a traditional Del which is the national costume of Mongolia. Many people in Mongolia still wear a del around the cities and countryside.
This is a famous monastery in Kharkhorin. It was the first centre of Lamaism and was established in 1586. The monastery has been vanadalised by both invading Manchu's and later in Communist purges.Erdene Zuu was re-opened in 1990 as both as a museum and place for worship.The temples in this picture are dedicated to the three stages of Buddah's life: as a child, adolescent and adult.
Mongolia is a very interesting country. With approx 2,5 mio persons living and most of them live in Ulan Bator.For a comparaison, the number of the animals are 14mio so that prooves that mongolia lives mainly from farmers.
I would take them to Ulaan Bator, since that is probably where anyone would go to first, before setting out to the desert. The scenery, the solitude and the vast & beautifl country.Also the people. The nomads are some of the most warm and friendly people I have ever known. Despite the language barrier, I was always made to feel right at home and even as an honoured guest.
Don't miss visiting the Gandan Monastery in Ulan Bataar. Tibetan Buddhism is a very important part of Mongolia culture, and visiting Mongolia without having seen 1 of its 3 most important monasteries would be such a shame. Under Russian domination last century, thousands were killed and only 4 of 700 Buddhist monasteries remained. Now free of this domination, Mongolians are now once again practicing openly and monasteries are being built like wildfire. By visiting in the morning, you will get to experience the monks during their prayer and chant sessions, which is incredible. Two hints of advice though: don't take pictures inside (disrespectful) and watch for PICKPOCKETS (yes, even in Mongolia!). the picture shows the Gandan Monastery in Ulan Batar.
Due to the large number of animals with fur, including the marmot and the squirrel, Mongolia has a strong fur trade. Other animals to be found are sheep, goats, horses, camels and cattle, although they can usually be found in the prairies in the northeast and northwest. These animals are usually raised by the Mongolians, as agriculture is their main way of life.
Chinggis Khaan Hotel Ulaanbaatar
1 Review and 37 Opinions Very good high end hotel. Modern, recently built. Very good service. We went there with very low...
UB Guesthouse Ulaanbaatar
8 Reviews and 16 Opinions My opinion is pretty simple, they need to become more professional.We got a twin bedroom on Sunday...
The Continental Hotel Ulaanbaatar
1 Review and 22 Opinions during my stay in UB I was completely cought of guard by this hotel. now they have a new fitness...
Reviews and photos of Mongolia attractions posted by real travelers and locals. The best tips for Mongolia sightseeing.
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Q: We have the opportunity of visiting Ulaanbaator for two days in December this year. Could anyone tell me how difficult it is to...
A: That depends, do you know what -20 to -30 C fells like? The locals are used to it. Just because it's cold, doesn't mean the whole city goes into hibernation. Things are...
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