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| Things to do mongolia ulaanbaatar |
For those who are living in Europe or the US, going east seems like a far-off notion when it comes to travelling. But there are actually a lot of interesting countries that you can discover and cultures that you can immerse yourself in when you venture out to East Asia, for instance.
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If you want to have an unforgettable vacation where you will have a magnificent view of exquisite mountain ranges, hear yourself think in quiet monasteries or join the loudness of boisterous public squares, then you should definitely consider heading over to Mongolia.
Mongolia is a landlocked country located between Russia and China. It has one of the lowest population densities among independent countries in the world, the locals of which still lead a nomadic life. When you combine this with the fact that the vast countryside has an enduring appeal, there’s no doubt that Mongolia is one of the most unique travel experiences that you’ll have.
Introducing Ulaanbaatar
Mongolia’s capital is Ulaanbaatar which has a population of about one million locals. Also called Ulan Bator, it is the largest city in Mongolia which is situated just east of the country’s center. It is situated almost 5,000 feet above sea level and is bounded by four mountains: Bogdh Khan, Chingeltei, Songino Khairkhan and Bayanzurkh.
At first glance, Ulaanbaatar might not appeal to the typical traveller who is looking for a lush beach island where every modern amenity is available. It’s actually a drab-looking city, but has one of the most beautiful landscapes and hospitable locals in the planet. Ulaanbaatar just screams history amidst all that concrete, dirt and ground patches. The potholes on boulevards cannot take away from the breathtakingly raw lushness of the place.
Back-to-Basics at the Three Camel Lodge Ulaanbaatar
Despite the back-to-basics feel of Ulaanbaatar as a city, it actually pleasantly melds with high-rise apartments, people-laden suburbs and chaotic traffic. However, you can still enjoy the beautiful countryside and restaurants, art and history museums are easily accessible.
Now, one of the most interesting accommodations that you can book when exploring Ulaanbaatar is the Three Camel Lodge. Situated right in the middle of the hard Gobi desert, the lodge has 20 yurts which you can call your home away from home.
The yurts are built based on Mongolian Buddhist architecture where not a single nail is used. Each one is equipped with a wooden stove, toilet and king-sized bed – although communal showers are a compromise that must be made.
Another interesting feature of the Three Camel Lodge is the fact that it is environmentally-friendly. Solar and wind power is used, electricity is cut off by 11 pm to conserve energy, and it has a recreational complex featuring an organic restaurant and a bar where drinks are cooled using geothermic energy.
However, prepare yourself for the journey because getting to the Three Camel Lodge in Ulaanbaatar involves a bumpy one and a half hour ride from Dalanzadgad. To while away the time, you can check out the old-fashioned Mongolian temples, indulge in a unique spa experience, check out the ancient petroglyphs near the tents or go camel-riding to explore what the local desert wildlife and the rest of Mongolia has to offer.