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Erdene Zuu Monastery, the Finish Line of the Gobi March 2025

A Glimpse into Mongolia's Spiritual Heart

Nestled in the heart of Mongolia, Erdene Zuu Monastery is a treasure trove of history and spirituality. Founded in 1585 by Abtai Sain Khan, the monastery is one of the oldest surviving Buddhist monasteries in Mongolia. It is located near the ancient city of Karakorum, in the Orkhon Valley.

A Sacred Beginning

The story of Erdene Zuu Monastery begins with Abtai Sain Khan, a prominent Mongolian ruler and a descendant of Genghis Khan. After meeting the 3rd Dalai Lama, Abtai Sain Khan declared Tibetan Buddhism as the state religion of Mongolia and ordered the construction of the monastery. Stones from the ruins of Karakorum were used to build the monastery, symbolizing a connection between Mongolia's past and its spiritual future.

Erdene Zuu Monastery

Architectural Marvel

Erdene Zuu Monastery is surrounded by a massive wall with 108 stupas, a sacred number in Buddhism. The monastery's temples are adorned with intricate paintings and Chinese-style green-tiled roofs. At its peak, the monastery housed 62 temples and around 1,000 monks, making it a bustling center of religious activity.

Trials and Tribulations

Throughout its history, Erdene Zuu Monastery faced numerous challenges. It was damaged during wars between the Dzungars and Khalkha Mongols in the late 17th century. In 1939, the communist leader Khorloogiin Choibalsan ordered the destruction of the monastery as part of a purge that targeted religious institutions. Despite these hardships, three small temples and the external wall with stupas survived.

Revival and Preservation

In 1944, under pressure from Joseph Stalin, the monastery was preserved as a showpiece for international visitors to demonstrate religious tolerance. After the fall of communism in Mongolia in 1990, Erdene Zuu Monastery was returned to the lamas and once again became a place of worship. Today, it remains an active Buddhist monastery and a museum open to tourists. RacingThePlanet has been given special permission to finish within the Erdene Zuu Monastery, proving an epic experience for all involved.

The Finish Line of the Gobi March 2025

A Living Heritage

Erdene Zuu Monastery stands as a testament to Mongolia's rich spiritual heritage. Visitors can explore its ancient temples, admire the beautiful architecture, and experience the serene atmosphere. The monastery continues to be a symbol of resilience and devotion, bridging Mongolia's past and present. RacingThePlanet is proud to continue to support the Erdene Zuu Monastery through donations each year.