Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Badma Ega Datsan TEMPLE
MAP GOOGLE MAP
(Gesar Süm; 11-313 148; cnr Sambugiin Örgön Chölöö & Ikh Toiruu west; 9am-8pm)
Belonging to Gandan Khiid, Badma Ega is a small, ramshackle place on a busy intersec-
tion. While Badma Ega is the original name for the temple, many know it by the alternat-
ive name Gesar Süm (Gesar was a mythical Tibetan king). It is a popular place for locals
to request, and pay for, puja (a blessing ceremony). Allegedly, the temple was placed
here to stop the movement of the hill behind it, which was slowly creeping towards the
centre of the city. It's easy to visit the temple as it lies between Gandan and the city
centre.
Tasgany Ovoo MAP GOOGLE MAP , about 300m north of Gesar Süm, is worth a
look if you haven't yet seen an ovoo , a sacred pyramid-shaped collection of stones.
Bakula Rinpoche Süm BUDDHIST MONASTERY
MAP GOOGLE MAP
(Pethub Stangey Choskhor Ling Khiid; 11-322 366; 9am-6pm) The Bakula Rin-
poche Süm was founded in 1999 by the late Indian ambassador, himself a reincarnated
lama from Ladakh. The Rinpoche's ashes were interred inside a golden stupa inside the
temple in 2004. The monastery, used mainly as a centre for Buddhist teaching, also has a
Centre for Buddhist Medicine MAP GOOGLE MAP ( 9199 7894; 9am-5pm Mon-
Fri, 9am-noon Sat) . The monastery is not a must-see unless you are interested in learning
about traditional medicine. The complex is located where Ikh Toiruu meets Sambugiin
Örgön Chölöö, behind a high white wall.
MOUNTAIN BIKING NEAR ULAANBAATAR
The best short bike ride from Ulaanbaatar goes from Zaisan to the Observatory.
From the city centre, travel south to the Zaisan Memorial ( Click here ) . From Zaisan,
continue in an easterly direction. The road - under construction at the time of re-
search - follows the southern bank of the Tuul Gol for 11km until you reach the ski
hill, Sky Resort ( Click here ) . The Observatory is a little bit further along; follow the
switchbacks uphill until you reach it. It's a two- to three-hour return trip.
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