Discover Amarbayasgalant Monastery: A Must-See in Northern Mongolia
Amarbayasgalant Monastery is one of Mongolia’s three largest and most significant monasteries. Amarbayasgalant Monastery sits 360 km north of Ulaanbaatar, in the Baruunburen soum of Selenge province. This beautiful site is rich in history and spiritual significance. In the 18th century, the Manchu emperor, Enkh Amgalan Khan, built the monastery to honor Zanabazar, the first Bogd Gegeen, and to preserve his mortal remains.
A Rich History of Amarbayasgalant
The construction of the monastery began in 1727 and was completed in 1737. What makes this place even more fascinating is that the emperor himself wrote a message in four languages—Mongolian, Tibetan, Manchu, and Chinese. The message symbolized his protection over the monastery. One of the unique things about Amarbayasgalant is that, unlike many other monasteries in Mongolia, it survived the destruction during the Soviet purges of 1937. This has made it a rare treasure in Mongolia.
Since 1998, monks have worked hard to restore the monastery, bringing in new statues from New Delhi, India. These restoration efforts have helped keep the monastery’s history alive and accessible to modern visitors.
Beautiful Architecture
Amarbayasgalant Monastery is a beautiful blend of architectural styles. The design is mainly Chinese, with influences from Mongolia and Tibet. The layout of the monastery is symmetrical, with the main buildings aligned along a North-South axis. Other structures are placed along a parallel axis, creating a sense of balance. Visitors can explore 28 buildings, including a two-story temple that covers an area of 32 square meters (344 square feet). This temple is the center of the monastery and is used for various ceremonies.
Attend a Ceremony
If you plan to visit Amarbayasgalant, make sure to arrive early for the morning ceremonies, which usually take place at 10 am. To fully experience the atmosphere, it’s a great idea to stay overnight at the monastery. Along with the main temple, there are a few newer monuments, including a golden Buddha statue and a stupa, which are located on the hills behind the monastery. If you’re up for it, you can hike up the mountains for even more stunning views of the valley below.
Amarbayasgalant: A Perfect Stop on Your Northern Mongolia Adventure
Amarbayasgalant Monastery is not just a great destination for history and culture; it’s also a peaceful spot in the middle of nature. It’s an excellent place to take a break if you’re on your way to Khuvsgul Lake. Whether you want to learn about Mongolia’s rich heritage or simply enjoy the calm surroundings, Amarbayasgalant is an unforgettable stop.
Plan Your Visit
If you’re planning a trip to Mongolia, don’t miss out on Amarbayasgalant Monastery. It’s a place where history, culture, and natural beauty come together. Book your Northern Mongolia tour today and explore this incredible site!
