Baldan Bereeven Monastery
After an early start and a few hours drive through pine spotted hills, and many grave makers, we arrive at Baldan Bereeven Monastery. Set in the Khentii foothills, Baldan was one of Mongolia’s largest and most important monasteries. Walking through the raw and rocky valley, with the buildings in part ruin, the feeling is otherworldliness. The main temple was beautifully revamped in 2010 and definitely worth a visit.
After an hour of exploring we head to the resort area of Lake Koche. Upon arriving at the tourist ger camp we decide the crowds are not appealing and head into the pine forrest to camp. The purple flowered pine forrest is a magical place to camp and one of my favourites of the trip.
by Ourania Bolis
