Western Mongolia - Mongolia - page 424

are also several examples of the many deer stones scattered around the aimag, plus a
model of the original Manchurian fortress.
Sangiin Kherem RUINS
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At the northern end of the city are some crumbling walls built around 1762 by the Man-
chu (Qing dynasty) warlords who once brutally governed Mongolia. The 40,000 sq metre
walled compound once contained several temples, a Chinese graveyard and the homes of
the Manchu rulers, though there's little left to see. Three enormous gates provided ac-
cess. At one time there was a moat (2m deep and 3m wide) around the 4m-high walls,
but this has been completely filled in. The 1500-man Chinese garrison was destroyed
after a 10-day siege and two-day battle in August 1912.
Gandan Puntsag Choilon Khiid BUDDHIST MONASTERY
Officially opened in 2010, this is the largest monastery in western Mongolia. The whole
compound is surrounded by a wall (with a path on top) and 108 stupas. Morning prayers
are held from 9am until 3pm inside the main temple, which features a statue of Buddha
flanked by 10 divine protectors.
Tours
Khovd Handicraft & Tours TOURS
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( 9943 8849, 9907 9485; [e-mail] ; 8am-10pm in summer) Marima, the
friendly owner here, is a great source of local information and can arrange tours to local
attractions including Khar Us Nuur National Park, the caves of Tsenkheriin Agui and the
khöömii singers in Chandmani. She can also arrange guides (T30,000 per day), jeeps
(T70,000 per day plus fuel) and homestays (around T25,000 per person, including
meals).
Sleeping
There are attractive (if buggy) camping spots along the Buyant Gol; head out of the town
towards Ölgii, turn right (downstream) at the river, and pitch your tent anywhere.
Royal Hotel HOTEL$$$
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