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Amarbayasgalant Khiid, Amarbayasgalant monasteries, Mongolia, Mongolian monasteries

THE REGIONS OF MONGOLIA

SELENGE AIMAG

AMARBAYASGALANT MONASTERY

The star attraction of Selenge aimag, Amarbayasgalant Khiid (Amarbayasgalant Khiid) is considered the second most important in Mongolia (after Erdene Zuu Khiid in Kharkhorin) and the most intact architectural complex in Mongolia. It is well worth visiting on the way to or from Khovsgol Nuur - or other areas in northern or western Mongolia, but it is difficult to reach. It's probably not worth the effort of coming here all the way from Ulaanbaatar just to see the monastery - you are better off incorporating it into a short three-or-four-day countryside trip to take in the surrounding scenery, or a longer cross-country trip.

Amarbaisgalant is one of the most impressive and carefully guarded monasteries in Mongolia, located in a picturesque area in the north of the country. It is a unique architectural structure that attracts tourists from all over the world due to its history, rich culture and spiritual aura. Founded in the early 18th century in honor of the famous Lama Zanabazar, it embodies the true grandeur and harmony of Buddhist architecture. Visitors will be able to enjoy the tranquility and solitude, delving into the introspection and ancient wisdom that permeate every building of the monastery.

The journey to Amarbaisgalant is an exciting adventure that begins with a trip through the endless steppes of Mongolia. As you approach the monastery, through the mountains and green valleys visible on the horizon, you will see a fascinating view worthy of the brush of the best artist. This place attracts not only with its amazing views, but also with a peaceful atmosphere, ideal for meditation and reflection.

Upon arrival in Amarbaisgalant, guests can explore the many temples and pavilions, each of which guards its secrets and legends. Majestic Buddha statues, exquisite frescoes and exquisite carved details — all this together creates an atmosphere of genuine spirituality and peace. The monastery also functions as an active center of Buddhism, where monks conduct Buddhist ceremonies daily, allowing tourists to experience unforgettable aspects of local culture first-hand.

Amarbayasgalant Khiid was originally built between 1727 and 1737 by the Manchu emperor Yongzheng, and dedicated to the great Mongolian Buddhist and sculptor, Zanabazar, whose mummified body was moved here in 1779. The monastery is in the Chinese style, down to the inscriptions, symmetrical layout and imperial color scheme.

Photo. Amarbayasgalant Khiid..

Amarbayasgalant monastery is dedicated to Zanabazar's main tutelary deity, Maitreya. Unlike Erdene Zuu Monastery, which is an ensemble of temple halls of different styles, Amarbayasgalant shows great stylistic unity. The overriding style is Chinese, with some Mongol and Tibetan influence. The monastery resembles Yongzheng's own palace Yonghegong in Beijing (converted by his son the Qianlong Emperor into a Buddhist monastery). Originally consisting of over 40 temples, the monastery was laid out in a symmetrical pattern, with the main buildings succeeding one another along a north–south axis, while the secondary buildings are laid out on parallel sides.

The communists found a way out here in the late 1930s, but 'only' destroyed 10 out of the 37 temples and statues, possibly because of sympathetic and procrastinating local military commanders. During the Soviet period, between 1975 and 1990, the temple began to be restored with the help of Unesco. These days, around 50 monks live in the monastery, compared to over 2000 in 1936.

The travel company offers various excursions to Amarbaisgalant, allowing everyone to choose an individual route, depending on their preferences and interests. Immerse yourself in the tranquility and beauty of this holy place, making visiting it an unforgettable part of your stay in Mongolia. Regardless of the season, Amarbaisgalant captivates with its majestic atmosphere and opens its doors to everyone who is looking for inspiration and a desire to touch eternity.