Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
ished families. Its main aim is to stop disadvantaged youths from becoming street
children. It also provides skills and jobs for unemployed women; an on-site felt-
making cooperative turns out some lovely products.
The Buddhist arm of the organisation has classes on Buddhism and meditation,
although for now these are only offered in Mongolian. In summer, a high Tibetan
lama, Panchen Otrul Rinpoche, visits the centre and provides religious teachings.
Asral encourages travellers to visit the centre. You can meet the felt-makers and
buy their products or even volunteer your time. The centre is always looking for
English teachers or gardeners to work on a small farm in Gachuurt (in summer).
The centre is in the 3/4 district opposite the Gobi Sauna, slightly off the main road.
It's best to call before you visit: ask for Davaa, the English-speaking director. Take
bus 10 or 43 from Tengis cinema to the last stop and continue walking for 300m.
Asral is a two-storey cream-coloured building on your right.
Festivals & Events
Around Naadam and other public holidays, special cultural events and shows are organ-
ised. It is worth reading the local English-language newspapers and asking a Mongolian
friend, guide or hotel staff member to find out what may be on.
Naadam
CULTURAL
( 11 & 12 Jul)
The biggest event in Ulaanbaatar is undoubtedly the Naadam (Festival).
Some visitors may not find the festival itself terribly exciting, but the associated activit-
ies during the Naadam week and the general festive mood make it a great time to visit.
Tsam-Mask Dancing
CULTURAL
( late Jul)
On a date set by the lunar calendar you can see
tsam
-mask dancing at
Dashchoilon Khiid.
City's Birthday
CULTURAL
( late Oct)
The last week in October sees the city's birthday - it was founded in 1639.
Events and concerts are usually put on at this time at the Cultural Palace or State Opera
& Ballet Theatre.
Ice Ankle-Bone Shooting Competition
SPORT
