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Mongolia , an amazing experience

sgtdjones 4/25/24, 5:01:10 PM
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debut: 2/16/17
35,169 runs

Mongolia , an amazing experience

Travel

Beijing (BJS) to Ulaanbaatar (ULN).Mongolia 3 hours
Beijing Daxing International Airport (PKX) to UB International Airport

Mongolia

Damdin Sükhbaatar/Genghis Khan monument

Mongolian revolutionary and military leader Damdin Sükhbaatar (1893–1923) was important to the country's independence.
He is a national hero and an important person in Mongolian history.
Sükhbaatar was born in Khentii, Mongolia, in 1893.
The Qing Dynasty ruled Mongolia during his youth.
As a young man, he witnessed the Qing Dynasty's oppression and vowed to free his country.
Tragically, Sükhbaatar died at 30. He died in 1923, leaving a legacy of bravery, patriotism, and support for Mongolia.
His contributions to the independence campaign and the early Mongolian People's Republic have earned him the title of national hero.
Sükhbaatar is celebrated as a national hero in Mongolia.

Genghis Khan

Genghis Khan, born in 1162 near Lake Baikal, Mongolia, was a legendary warrior-ruler and one of the most renowned conquerors in history.
He played a pivotal role in consolidating various Mongolian tribes into a unified Mongolia and then went on to expand his empire across Asia, reaching as far as the Adriatic Sea.
History books often portray Genghis Khan as a brutal emperor responsible for the massacre of millions of people in Asia and Eastern Europe.
While it is true that he led military campaigns that resulted in significant loss of life, it is important to examine his legacy from a more nuanced perspective.
Genghis Khan's empire was indeed vast, stretching across diverse regions and encompassing numerous cultures and peoples.
Despite this, he practiced religious and racial tolerance, a characteristic that set him apart from many other conquerors of his time.
He allowed his subjects to practice their own religions and customs, fostering an environment of cultural diversity within his empire.
Another notable aspect of Genghis Khan's rule was his recognition of the leadership abilities of women.
Mongolian society traditionally held women in high regard, and Genghis Khan continued this tradition by appointing women to positions of power and influence.

Furthermore, Genghis Khan is credited with bringing law and civilization to Mongolia.
He implemented a legal code known as the Yassa, which established rules and regulations for his empire.
The Yassa promoted fairness, justice, and social order, contributing to the stability and development of Mongolian society. In his native land of Mongolia, Genghis Khan is revered as a hero and a national symbol. He is celebrated for his military prowess, his unification of the Mongolian tribes, and his contributions to the cultural and social development of the region. Mongolians view him as a visionary leader who laid the foundation for their nation's future success.
His empire was not solely defined by violence and destruction but also by religious tolerance, gender equality, and the establishment of a legal system.
Genghis Khan's legacy continues to shape the identity and history of Mongolia, making him a figure of both admiration and debate.

Riding in Mongolia

Girls Archery Contest

Nomads, Mongolia

Golden Buddha
The Gandan Monastery's 26-meter Avalokitesvara statue

The Gandan Monastery in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia, is a historic Buddhist monastery. Since 1809, it has shaped the country's religious and cultural landscape.
The monastery remains Mongolia's Buddhist center despite persecution and closure.
The Gandan Monastery housed hundreds of monks for worship, education, and spiritual direction during its peak.
The monastery closed in 1939 due to religious persecution. It was the only monastery in Mongolia until 1989 after being reopened in 1944.
Gandan Monastery remains a vibrant Buddhist center of practice and research.
Over 100 monks live there to seek spiritual enlightenment and teach Buddhism.
The monastery is a peaceful place of devotion for locals and guests.
The Gandan Monastery's 26-meter Avalokitesvara statue is a gem.
This stunning gilded bronze statue with precious stones is the work of Mongolian artists.
Avalokitesvara, the Bodhisattva of Compassion, is adored in Buddhism for his mercy and compassion.
Visitors to Gandan Monastery can watch monks perform their daily rituals and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere.
Mongolia's Gandan Monastery is cultural and historical as well as religious. It symbolizes perseverance and dedication, having survived time and adversity.
The monastery symbolizes Mongolia's Buddhist spirit and its significant impact on its practitioners.

Reindeer Nomads Home
My rented 4x4...in background

Mongolian BBQ

In the province of Mongolia, the troops of the mighty Khan would establish their camps along the banks of the Grand River Khan-Balik.
The Mongols would meticulously slice meat into thin slivers using their razor-sharp swords.
Their campfires heated their shields, which they used to sear their food.

Reindeer

Alms Day buddhist monks

Every morning, they beg on the streets before noon, and kind-hearted citizens generously provide them with a meal for the day. 
The monks consume their meal before noon and then abstain from eating for the remainder of the day.

Ulaanbaatar
Ulaanbaatar, also known as Ulan Bator (UB), is the capital city of Mongolia.
Situated in the northern part of the country, Ulaanbaatar holds the distinction of being the coldest capital city in the world.
Its high elevation and geographical location contribute to its frigid temperatures, especially during the winter months.
Despite its extreme climate, Ulaanbaatar has emerged as a vibrant cultural and business center in Mongolia.
It serves as a crucial hub, connecting the Trans-Siberian Railway with the Chinese rail system, making it an important transportation junction in the region.
This strategic location has contributed to the city's growth and development as a thriving urban center.
One of the unique experiences that Ulaanbaatar offers is the opportunity to explore the vast Gobi Desert.
Located not far from the city, the Gobi Desert is a mesmerizing landscape of sand dunes and arid plains.
Visitors can partake in camel or horse rides across the dunes, immersing themselves in the beauty and tranquility of this remote desert.

Another must-see attraction near Ulaanbaatar is the iconic Chinggis Khaan statue.
Standing at an impressive height of 40 meters, this glistening silver statue is located approximately 50 kilometers outside of the city.
Constructed in 2008 using stainless steel, the statue is a dramatic representation of the legendary Mongolian leader, Genghis Khan.
Legend has it that this spot was chosen for the statue because it was where Chinggis Khaan found a golden whip.
Visiting a local Mongolian family in their traditional dwelling, known as a ger or tent, is also a popular activity for tourists in Ulaanbaatar.
This provides a unique opportunity to experience the nomadic lifestyle and learn about the rich cultural heritage of the Mongolian people.
It is a chance to witness firsthand the warmth and hospitality of the locals and gain insight into their traditional customs and way of life.

In addition to its natural and cultural attractions, Ulaanbaatar offers a range of modern amenities, including shopping centers, restaurants, and museums.
The city's National Museum of Mongolia is a notable highlight, showcasing the country's history, art, and culture.
Ulaanbaatar, with its blend of ancient traditions and modern development, offers a captivating experience for visitors.
Whether exploring the Gobi Desert, marveling at the Chinggis Khaan statue, or immersing oneself in the vibrant city life, Ulaanbaatar provides a unique and unforgettable journey into the heart of Mongolia.
So many things I have omitted , it would have taken pages to write. Those memories.

Travel
Mongolia to Hong Kong MIAT Mongolian Airlines 5 hours
UB International Airport to Hong Kong International Airport (HKG)
Hong Kong to Toronto . Flying to Toronto with Cathay Pacific. 15 hours
Hong Kong International Airport (HKG) to Toronto Pearson airport.
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