Overview

Mongolia is the 2^nd largest landlocked country in the world situated between China, Russia, and east central Asia. Geography of this country is dominated by mountains, deserts (Gobi Desert), and high plateaus. It is has the least number of people per square mile in the world and around 2.9 million residents claim Mongolia as their home. The country underwent a sea of changes between the years 1990-1993 during which Mongolia declared itself as independent, created a constitution, and established a multi party system. In addition, it was also transformed to a market economy. Mongolia enjoys an extreme continental type of climate with long cold windy winters and very short summers. Most of the annual precipitation falls during the summer and winter seasons.

Activities & Attraction

It is good to plan a visit in summer season when the Naadam Festival is celebrated, which is usually a three-day event. It includes archery events, horseracing, Mongolian Wrestling, and lots of other fun. There are many sports activities played throughout the country. Trick riding and long distance horse riding are important part of the Mongolia culture. Even visitors can participate in these events where competitions are held on an impromptu basis in villages and small towns throughout Mongolia. Wrestling is the most popular and highly practiced of the Mongol sports, with its seven thousand years old origin.

The capital city of Ulan Bator is the coldest city in the world. It is located quite high above the sea level, a remote location of the modern world. It connects the Chinese Rail System with the Trans Siberian Railway. Most of the buildings in Ulan Bator were constructed after the end of World War II, so the city has a surprisingly modern feel. It is a thriving urban center where the best time to visit is July, when the national Mongolian holidays are celebrated with fervor and joy. The city is also home to a Tibetan style Buddhist monastery called the Gandan Monastery, in addition to several Soviet purges.

Lodging

The country offers many top rated hotels including two guided bed and breakfast spots, the Khongor Guest House, and the Temuuujun's Guesthouse. Other hotels in Ulan Bator include the Flower, the Edelweiss, the Narantuul, and the Chinggis Khan Hotel, where you can plan your stay through advance booking. All are competitive with prices similar to the European capitals or US larger cities.

Transportation

Eznis Airways is the largest domestic airline that serves a number of Mongolian domestic points as well as operates international services to China, Russia, and Kazakhstan. Many radio-dispatched taxis are available, and its charges are around 400 Tugriks / $0.3 for a five-minute trip. These taxis can be called to your location. You can also rent a car, but it not a good idea due to the heavy traffic jams.