Erdene Zuu Monastery – the Oldest Buddhist Monastery of Mongolia

The beautiful Erdene Zuu Monastery or Erdene zuu Khiid is probably the oldest surviving Buddhist shrine. Founded in the 1585, the monastery is one of the prime landmarks in the Orkhon Valley Cultural Landscape. The monastery was founded by the Khalkha Mongol ruler, Abtai Sain Khan, after declaring the Tibetan Buddhism as the state religion. This beautiful structure has witnessed monumental change in the regimes, and was on the verge of destruction. However, it was saved for maintaining a political gimmick. Whatever be the reason, the entire monastery is a piece of art and visit to the shrine is a must.
 According to the historical records, the Erdene zuu Khiid is one of the oldest Buddhist monasteries of Mongolia. During the 16th century, the monastery complex consisted of 100 temples and countless gers. It was the home to more than 1000 Buddhist monks.

The historical records point out that the then ruler of the region, Abtai Sain Khan, commissioned the construction of Erdene zuu Khiid after meeting the 3rd Dalai Lama from Tibet. During his reign, the Tibetan Buddhism was declared as a state religion.

It is believed that the stones from the ruins of Karakorum (the ancient capital of Mongolia) were used to build several temples within the sanctuary complex.

In the later part of the 20th century, during the Communist regime, the monastery suffered from terrible damage. Surprisingly, numerous thangkas and tsam masks were successfully saved from the national purge. These religious artifacts came back to their rightful place post-revolution.
 The Erdene Zuu Monastery is truly a work of art and showcases how Tibetan Buddhism influenced the local culture. The initial 16th century architecture of the monument was built around a walled compound. While building the original structure of the stupas, the architects planned on constructing equidistant structures resembling the beads of a Buddhist rosary. According to records, there were total 108 small structure in the complex (108 being a holy number in Buddhism).

Among the numerous temples of the compound, only three temples – Zuu, Zuun Zuu and Baruun Zuu -survived the purge. These temples were dedicated to the three stages in Buddha’s life – his childhood, youth, and adulthood.

While touring the temples, you can find several ancient relics and wall paintings depicting the different stages in the life of Buddha. The trip to the temples is an interesting prospect, and takes you back in time. You might never know the serene landscape and the tranquil environment might inspire you to sit back and mediate!
 Another important surviving structure inside the temple complex is the Dalai Lama Süm. This structure, built in 1675, is believed to constructed post Altan Khan’s meeting with the then Dalai Lama. The temple houses an eye-catching statue of Zanabazar in the middle of the room. Its walls are decorated with beautiful 17th century thangkas – representing several deities of Buddhism.
 One of the biggest attractions of the monastery is the Baruun Zuu Sum, dedicated to the adulthood of Buddha, contains the grand golden statue of Sakyamuni. The deity has a tranquil smile on its face, filing the heart of the visitors with a sense of peace. Additionally, the walls of the temple are adorned by several important figurines and symbolisms of the Buddhist philosophy. Among them the wheels of eternity are especially eye-catching.
 On the center of the Erdene Zuu monastery complex, stands the fascinating Zuu of Buddha Sum. The entrance of the shrine is fringed with statues of different local motifs and religious symbolism. Among them images of Bandal Lham and Gonggor are very sticking. Inside the temple, visitors can find the statue of child Buddha blessing them with good health and prosperity. Walls of the temple are decorated with important religious statues including Otoch Manal, Zanabazar, Niam and Dabaa.    

Apart from the temples, tourists can find the gravestones of Abtai Khaan and Tüshet Khaan Gombodorj. Also, the Square of Happiness and Prosperity (within the temple complex) is a must visit. Overall, the monastery is a treasure trove of Tibetan Buddhism philosophy and a place for looking deep into the soul.
 From the Mongolian state capital, Ulaanbaatar, visitors can hire a private cab to reach the Erdene Zuu monastery. The approximate distance of 364.8 km (226.67 miles) can be covered in almost six hours. Cabs rides can cost around US$120 to US$170, but the prices are subjected to change. Visitors can take a hike to the destination or pick up camel rides from the capital city as well. However, the trip can be very tiring.

There are no known modes of public transport connecting the two spots.
 •  Opening hours: 9:00 am – 6:00 pm (during summer), 10:00 am – 5:00 pm (winter).
•  Entry fee: T5, 000 (US $1.8) for adults, children free entry – extra for camera.
•  The tickets include a guided tour, mostly English-speaking guide is available.
•  Carry a camera to capture the ancient wonders.
•  It is an active place of worship, try to maintain its sanctity.
•  The entry to the monastery grounds are free, but visitors have to buy a ticket to enter the temples.

*The timings and entry fee are subjected to change.

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