Ulaangom (Mongolian: Улаангом, Red Sand) is the capital of Uvs Province in Mongolia. It is located at the southwest end of the Uvs Nuur Lake 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). It is divided into two suburban areas named Chandman 'Чандман' and Uliasny Khev 'Улиасны Хэв'.
In 2006, the Consulate of Tuva Republic of Russia was opened in Ulaangom, and a Representative Office of Uvs Province was opened in Kyzyl, the capital of Tuva.
Culture
The city has monuments from the communist era, such as a monument of Yumjaagiyn 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 as of March 2007. 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.
