Ulaangom

Ulaangom (Mongolian: Улаангом, Red Sand) is the capital of Uvs Province in Mongolia. It is located near the southwestern shore of the lake Uvs Nuur and on the slopes of the Kharkhiraa mountains, close to the Russian border.

Description

Ulaangom marks one of the lowest points in the country, lying about 939 m above sea level. The city has a population of 26,319 (2000 census), 23,000 (2006 est.). It is divided into two suburban areas named Chandmani "Чандмань" and Uliasny Khev "Улиасны Хэв".

A Consulate of Tuva Republic of Russia is located in Ulaangom, and a Representative Office of Uvs Province in Kyzyl, the capital of Tuva.

Culture

The city has monuments from the communist era, such as a monument of Yumjaagiin Tsedenbal, who led the country for more than 40 years, in front of the Provincial Government Building. There are many educational and cultural organizations and institutions in the city. There is a branch of a university, a vocational college and 5 secondary schools.

History

Ulaangom is believed to be founded in 1686. The foundation of the Ulaangom Monastery was erected in 1871 as Dechinravjaa Monastery. Historical evidence indicates that there were grain plantations in operation in late 1600s in the area of Ulaangom.

Transportation

Ulaangom is connected to the Russian border by Highway, and imports its electricity from the Russian Federation. There is one airport (ULO) in the city which has direct flights from or to Ulaanbaatar by Aero Mongolia. The Eznis Airways also runs regular flights between Ulaangom and Ulaanbaatar. There are no direct flights to any other cities or towns in the country from the city.

Climate

Ulaangom is one of the coldest places in Mongolia. Temperatures can reach −45° C in the winter and +40° C or more in the summer.

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49°59′N 92°04′E