UB- Nadam festivities

After a long procedure at the border we was in Mongolia. We stopped in sukhbaatar had a look at the Nadam there  and  joined in with some games before moving on. Ullanbataar was 300km south, so we set off at six hoping to get there for about ten. The roads were horrific and traffic was just as bad. Everyone seemed to be heading out with full beams on blinding you. Due to this we pulled over and stopped for the night.

Early the next morning we got up and made our way to ullanbataar. Found a good spot to park and got down to the stadium for the Nadam. The atmosphere was quality, the food was even better. After purchasing our wrestling hats we were ready to get inside. It was pretty empty but the wrestling was a good watch. We had a little look at the archery then made our way back to town for the evenings celebrations. One of the best firework displays I have seen erupted from the main square as we partied in a nearby bar.

Day two of the Nadam was the one to watch. After purchasing supplies! We had the stadium in our sights! Managing to buy tickets of stadium security, we were in. The stadium was full to the brim. Our seats were situated in between loads of locals. One of there mates was actually in the wrestling. The whole experience was incredible. Unfortunately there mate lost in the final, but all in all a quality crack! We headed back to the main square for closing ceremony. Loads of live music and visual displays which everyone enjoyed. We met a guy in the crowd called Nyandag, he was cool spoke good English and made us feel welcome 

Later that night we met a few friends that we met earlier in the week. Attended a karaoke bar and sang them to death with our beautiful English twang. They replied singing some mongolian songs note perfect. We showed them the van and a mongolian girl tagged along. She took me for a walk around town and bought me some food. While on the walk Some guys jumped me in the street and nicked my hat!! Dickheads!! But was actually robs stiiiiinnnnnngggeer!!! 

We met some American guys the next day. They told us a load of good places to see in Mongolia. Luckily a guy called Brakton said it was cool to stay at his for a few days. Sweet!! He was working for a American organization called peacecore. His appartment was nice and he let us use his facilities. This was quality warm shower and clean clothes. We also done some repairs to the van. Cheers Brakton for your hospitality it was spot on 

After having enough of the city, we needed some fresh air so headed for the countryside for a few days. All in all the Nadam festival was a great few days.

Dunny