Happy TravellerMandalgovi (Mongolian: Мандалговь; ᠮᠠᠨᠳᠠᠯᠭᠣᠪᠢ; also Mandalgov or Mandalgobi) is a beautiful city located in the Dundgovi Province of Mongolia. It is situated about 300 km south of Ulaanbaatar on the border of the Gobi Desert. The city has a population of 10,506 inhabitants (2005), 10,299 (2007) and the official name of the city administrative units is Saintsagaan sum.
== History ==
Mandalgovi, originally a village of only 40 yurts, gained status as a town in 1942. Since then, it has developed into a thriving city that offers visitors a unique glimpse into Mongolia’s rich cultural and historical past.
== Climate ==
Mandalgovi has a cold semi-arid climate (Köppen climate classification BSk) bordering on a cold desert climate (Köppen BWk), which is characterized by warm summers and very cold winters. Most precipitation falls in the summer as rain, while winters are very dry.
== Transportation ==
Accessing Mandalgovi is convenient due to its connection to Ulaanbaatar by a 300 km paved road that was completed in October 2013. Visitors can opt to drive, take a bus or hire a private car with a driver for a more comfortable journey.
== What to See and Do ==
Mandalgovi has plenty to offer visitors, including natural and cultural attractions. One of the most popular attractions is the Dinosaur Museum, which boasts an impressive collection of fossils, including the world’s largest dinosaur eggs. Another popular attraction is the Zorgol Hairhan Uul Nature Reserve, which covers an area of 558,000 hectares and is home to a wealth of wildlife, including wild sheep, ibex, and argali sheep. The reserve is also home to several ancient rock paintings that date back to the Bronze Age.
For those interested in the city’s cultural heritage, there are several monasteries and temples that are worth visiting. The most popular among these is the Gandantegchinlen Monastery, which is one of the oldest and most important monasteries in Mongolia. Visitors can take part in daily prayers and witness the fascinating rituals and ceremonies that take place here.
To experience the local way of life, visitors can head to the local market, where they can find a wide variety of fresh produce, locally made handicrafts, and souvenirs. The market is also a great place to sample traditional Mongolian cuisine, including buuz (steamed dumplings) and khuushuur (deep-fried meat pies).
== Accommodation ==
Mandalgovi offers a range of accommodation options to suit all budgets, from budget hostels to luxury hotels. Some of the most popular options include the Mandalgovi Hotel, the Gobi Discovery Camp, and the Gurvan Mandal Tourist Camp.
== Conclusion ==
Mandalgovi may not be as well-known as some of Mongolia’s other cities, but it is definitely worth a visit for those looking to experience the country’s unique culture, history, and natural beauty. With its impressive museums, stunning nature reserves, and rich cultural heritage, Mandalgovi is a must-see destination for any traveler to Mongolia.
