Darkhan: Mongolia’s Third Largest City
Darkhan is Mongolia’s third largest city, located in the Northern part of the country. It is the capital of the Darkhan-Uul province, and is the second most populous city in the country. The city was founded in 1961 and is home to around 150,000 people, and is an important industrial and cultural hub.
History of Darkhan
Darkhan has a long and interesting history, having been inhabited since the Stone Age. It was an important trading post on the Great Silk Road, and later became a major industrial center in the Soviet era.
In 1961, the city was officially founded as an industrial center by the Mongolian government. It was designed to be the largest and most modern city in the country and was quickly populated with workers from all over the country.
Today, Darkhan is a thriving and modern city, and has grown to become the third largest city in Mongolia. It is a bustling center of industry and commerce, and is home to many large and successful companies.
Things to Do and See
Darkhan is a great place to visit and explore, with plenty of interesting things to see and do. Here are some of the top attractions in the city:
- The Darkhan Museum: The Darkhan Museum is one of the most popular attractions in the city, and is home to a wide variety of artifacts from the city’s long and interesting history.
- The Darkhan Zoo: The Darkhan Zoo is home to a variety of animals, including leopards, tigers, bears, and more. It’s a great place to spend the day with the family.
- The Central Square: The Central Square is the heart of Darkhan, and is home to the city’s government buildings and monuments. It’s a great place to people watch and take in the city’s atmosphere.
- The Darkhan Market: The Darkhan Market is a bustling and colorful market, and is a great place to buy souvenirs and traditional Mongolian crafts.
- The Darkhan Theater: The Darkhan Theater is home to the city’s world-class opera and ballet performances. It’s a great place to catch a show and experience the city’s culture.
Where to Stay in Darkhan
Darkhan is home to a wide variety of accommodation options, from luxury hotels to budget guesthouses. Here are some of the best places to stay in the city:
- Black Horse Hotel: The Black Horse Hotel is one of the most luxurious hotels in the city and is located in the heart of the city. It’s a great place to stay in comfort and style.
- Hotel Dashbalbar: Hotel Dashbalbar is a modern and comfortable hotel located close to the city center. It’s a great place to stay for those on a budget.
- Ulaanbaatar Hotel: The Ulaanbaatar Hotel is a great mid-range option in the city. It’s a great place to stay for those looking for a good value for money.
- Naadam Guesthouse: The Naadam Guesthouse is a cozy and comfortable guesthouse located near the city center. It’s a great place to stay for those looking for a budget-friendly option.
Getting Around Darkhan
Darkhan is a large and spread-out city, so it’s important to plan your transportation in advance. Here are some of the best ways to get around Darkhan:
- Public Transport: Darkhan has a reliable network of buses and minibusses that cover the city and surrounding areas. This is an affordable option for getting around, with routes connecting major attractions and neighborhoods.
- Taxi: Taxis are readily available in Darkhan and offer a convenient way to get around the city. They can be hailed on the street or booked through ride-hailing apps.
- Walking: Many of Darkhan’s attractions are within walking distance of each other, especially in the city center. Walking is a great way to explore the streets, parks, and markets at your own pace.
- Rental Car: For travelers looking for more independence and flexibility, renting a car is an option. There are several rental agencies in Darkhan where you can hire a car for self-driving exploration.
- Bicycle: Cycling is becoming increasingly popular in Darkhan, and there are bike rental shops where you can hire bicycles for exploring the city and its surroundings.
With these transportation options, navigating Darkhan and accessing its attractions is convenient and accessible for visitors of all preferences and budgets.