Following a 24 hour journey from Melbourne the decent into Ulaanbaatar at sunrise was a perfectly breathtaking glimpse into the 3 weeks ahead. Stepping out into the pine scented morning, we were greeted by our driver from Meg’s Guest house and Tours. Staying in Meg’s beautifully appointed and superbly located apartment, we spent the first 2 days exploring Mongolia’s vibrant capital.
The Gandan Tegchenling Monastery is recognised as the main and most important religious centre of Mongolia. Considered a treasure house of buddhist heritage, knowledge, rituals and artistic items, the vast grounds are busting with activity everyday.
Sukhbaatar Square is the perfect place to take in a bit of people watching. Tourists, students and even wedding party’s gather on the steps of government surrounded by the impressive monuments of Mongolia’s important historical figures. There are also many museums around the city to visit wherever your interests lie. Shopping for antiques and Mongolian cashmere is also heaps of fun.
Come night in Ulaanbaatar the traffic chaos is gone and bars and restaurants come to life. You can find a variety of food options from Mongolian to Korean to western fast food options. There are also good bars on Seoul St and surrounds.
by Ourania Bolis
