The continuation of the story of Karakorum or the Erdene Zuu monastery

Imagine a land where ancient history meets spirituality, where sacred sites still stand strong amidst ruins, and where traditions of the old are still alive and thriving. This land is none other than the Erdene Zuu Monastery, located in the heart of Mongolia.

 

Legend has it that the monastery was first founded within the ruins of Tahai, a forgotten city that once stood tall in the Mongolian landscape. It was here that Abtai Sain Khan, the grandson of Batmunkh Dayan Khan, created the image of the Dalai Lama III, marking the beginning of the construction of Erdene Zuu Monastery in 1586.

 

The monastery's construction took a year to complete, and it became an essential part of Mongolia's history. Researchers believe that Erdene Zuu Monastery was built using stone walls left over from the ruins of Karakorum, an ancient city bordered by Genghis Khan himself. This historical connection between the city and the monastery is still evident today, as stone statues found in the Karakorum district are now placed inside the monastery's courtyard.

 

Erdene Zuu Monastery is not just a religious site; it's also a marvel of traditional Mongolian urban planning. The 108 suvaragas surrounding the monastery span over 420 meters wide and are structured according to traditional Mongolian organization. In its prime, Erdene Zuu Monastery was a thriving complex with 62 temples, 500 buildings, and 10,000 monks in 1792. Although the number of temples has dwindled over time, the monastery remains a vital part of Mongolia's cultural heritage.

 

Today, visitors to Erdene Zuu Monastery can explore the west, east, main tsogchin dugana, the temple of the hundred, and the group of Great Stupas that make up the Erdene Zuu Museum. This museum is a treasure trove of Mongolian history, and it's a must-see for anyone interested in the country's rich cultural heritage.

 

If you're looking for a unique travel experience that's both spiritual and historically significant, then Erdene Zuu Monastery should be on your list. This ancient site is a testament to Mongolia's enduring cultural legacy and a reminder of the country's rich history.