sites, iconic sand dunes, ice canyon, and stunning mountain scenery not to mention the over 200 bird species and 600 varieties of plants. Both of these areas are popular tourist destinations both for foreigners and Mongolians. Petroglyphs and fossils Tsagaan Agui (White Cave) once housed Stone Age people beginning approximately 700,000 years ago. According to researchers, its crystal-lined inner chamber was a holy site for these inhabitants as well as a pilgrimage spot for historical period Buddhists. The nearby site of Tsagaan Bulag (White Stream) was perhaps another sacred site for the region's ancient inhabitants. On a white outcrop, the faint drawings of figures are still visible. These figures, although anthropomorphic, bear unusual features such as massive ears and misshaped hands. Bayangiin Nuruu (roughly translated as Rich Mountainside) is another site with well-preserved petroglyphs from approximately 3000BCE. Although not nearly as ancient as other sites, Bayangiin Nuruu's drawings are extensive and well-preserved, depicting scenes from daily life. Dinosaur fossils are also found in the ravines and valleys of southeastern Bayankhongor. Famous sites include Bugiin Tsav, Yasnee Tsav, and Khermen Tsav. Transportation The Bayankhongor Airport (BVN/ZMBH) has two runways, and is served by two or three weekly flights to and from Ulaanbaatar that vary from season to season. There are also daily buses to and from Ulaanbaatar (departing from the Dragon Center in Ulaanbaatar at 08.00) which stop in the town of Arvaikheer, as well as less regular buses west towards Gobi-Altai and Khovd aimags. Travel to soums (sub-provincial districts) is possible by mini-vans (microbuses) which gather in the open market in the southern district of the aimag capital. Administrative subdivisions * - The aimag capital Bayankhongor Notes References Provinces of Mongolia States and territories established in 1941 1941 establishments in Asia