1.Kharkhorin and Erdene Zuu Monastery
The ancient city of Karakorum was Genghis Khan’s capital during the 13th and the 14th century. On this site, there are architectural ruins that date as far back as the 6th century, which is a treat for any tourist that loves exploring historical sites.
A 2km walk from the center of Kharkhorin, you can find a genuine pearl of architecture — the Erdene Zuu Monastery built in 1586. It was the first Buddhist monastery in Mongolia, founded by Altai Khan. Erdene Zuu has three main temples: Zuu of Buddha, Zuun Zuu and Baruun Zuu. They symbolize Buddha’s childhood, adolescence, and adulthood, as the three main stages of life. Erdene Zuu has a unique look thanks to its beautiful architecture, white walls and elaborate different-colored roofs.
2.Amarbayasgalant Monastery
Another beautiful monastic complex, Amarbayasgalant Monastery is among the three largest Buddhist centers in the country. It was constructed between 1727 and 1736 to serve as a resting place for Zanabazar, whose remains arrived at the monastery in 1779.
With its original count of 40 temples, the monastic complex was envisioned in a symmetrical layout, with main buildings following the North-South axis while the secondary structures would be on parallel sides. It’s a breathtaking architectural feat that stands out beautifully against the backdrop of the steppe.
3.Tuvkhun Monastery
As one of the oldest Buddhist monasteries in Mongolia, Tuvkhun Monastery definitely deserves a visit, especially if you’re passing through Kharkhorin. It was built in 1648 and established by Zanabazar, who was then only a 14-year-old, but already the spiritual head of Buddhism in Outer Mongolia. The monastery ended up being used as his personal retreat, and had a tumultuous history after Zanabazar’s death. Now it delights the eyes of tourists as a UNESCO world culture heritage site.
4.Zaisan Hill
Zaisan Hill is a perfect blend of modern architecture and tradition and history. Until recently, it was most well-known for the Zaisan Hill Monument atop the hill, a beautiful circular structure with a mural honoring allied Mongol and Soviet soldiers who fell during World War II. Now the hill is also home to a sprawling modern complex with plenty of amenities for tourists and residents alike.
5.Genghis Khan Equestrian Statue
East of the Mongolian capital Ulaanbaatar, on the bank of the Tuul River, the Genghis Khan Equestrian Statue towers over the landscape as part of the Genghis Khan Statue Complex. With a height of 131 feet, it’s placed atop the 10-feet tall visitor center.
Other than the gorgeous panoramic view from the top of the horseman statue, there are also exhibitions to visit in the museum attached to the complex. Visitors can enjoy displays of items dating back to the Bronze Age, as well as exhibitions that cover the period of Genghis Khan’s rule.
Even though Mongolia stuns us with its gorgeous nature, there’s plenty of unusual human-made structures to see that make the trip even more memorable.
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