Tugsu's trip to the Bogd Mountain

Well, once again Tugsu went off somewhere without me. This time last Saturday as I had meetings and recovered from my stomach ailment (Giardia) she went to the sacred mountian of Mongolia, Bogd Uul. It is close to Ulaanbaatar and a cool place, here is some info on it:
BOGD KHAN MOUNTAIN: This mountain is the world's oldest official protected area. In 1778, the Emperor of Manchur passed resolutions to formalize the sacred values of the Bogd Khan Mountain and provide for official protection of the site. On the south side of the protected area, monks have begun the process of rebuilding the Monastery Manzushiry. Established in 1750, the monastery housed more than 350 monks and 20 temples, including schools of medicine, astrology, and philosophy, before it was destroyed in the 1930's. Numerous archaeological sites have been discovered in the preserve, including cave paintings that archaeologists date to three thousand years ago.
However, it is quite a climb, at 2,268 meters above sea level and from where they left the altitude gain to the summit is 1727 feet. However, she was able to complete this climb with Amina and the help of some of her workmates at the Wildlife Conservation Society.

Yes, they made it to the top and enjoyed a wondeful view I'm sure, though from this picture I am not sure what Amina is looking at. Bilguun, Amina's ever present nanny came along too and had a great time I am told. Along the way there were beautiful wildflowers and a nice picnic lunch.

The history of the place is amazing as well as the view. Not a bad trip altogether I am sure. However, when they got back Tugsu was tired and grumpy, a stark contrast to those younger roommates, Amina and Bilguun. My work continues to progress here and my meetings with the BioRegions director and people from the conference were very promising. We wish everyone the best in that heat back in the US and hope your air conditioing holds out. Bye