Karakorum is a time-honored historical site that combines the allure of its many cultures with the allure of history to create a unique and unforgettable atmosphere. The view of this area from above is worth more than a thousand words. Karakorum, despite its remote location, is an ideal destination in Mongolia for anyone seeking both an exciting and relaxing vacation experience. Karakorum has a variety of activities that are guaranteed to enchant its guests, like mountain biking, horseback riding, and just taking a leisurely walk through the verdant meadows.
In the year 1229, Chinggis Khaan’s son Ogedei Khaan established Karakorum as a capital city. About forty years later, it continued to serve as the governmental capital of the Mongols. Additionally, it functioned as the primary cultural and economic hub for the people there. The majority of the city was destroyed by the Manchus, and the only significant structure that survives among the ruins of Karakorum is the well-known Erdene Zuu Monastery. This Buddhist temple and lamasery was the first of its kind to be built in Mongolia, and it continues to this day to cast a spell on passersby as the sun sinks into the horizon behind it in shades of saffron, pink, red, and crimson. The archaeological ruins of five temples, tombs, stupas, and a few minor structures still maintain alive the memory of a golden past despite the fact that they were destroyed by Manchurians. In addition, Karakorum was home to a magnificent palace that was known across the world as the “Palace of the World.”
Main Tourist Attractions of Karakorum
Erdene Zuu Khiid
Erdene Zuu Khidd, which translates to “Hundred Treasuries,” is the name of the oldest Buddhist Monastery in the territory that is now known as Mongolia. It was founded in 1586 by Abtai Khaan. The Manchurians were responsible for the destruction of the monastery; nonetheless, the archaeological ruins of five temples, graves, stupas, and a few tiny structures still maintain alive the memory of the monastery’s golden past. The Erdene Zuu complex was home to over one thousand monks and had approximately one hundred temples and three hundred gers. The Zuu of Buddha, Zuun Zuu, Golden Prayer Stupa, and Lavrin Sum are the primary destinations for visitors when they are within the monastery. Although access to the monastery grounds is free, those who want to tour the temples of the monastery are required to purchase tickets in advance.
Turtle Rocks
The Turtle Rocks are two stone sculptures in the form of turtles that are located on opposite sides of the Erdene Zuu Monastery. One of the Turtle Rocks is located at a short distance from the monastery, while the other sits in the hills with spectacular views of the monastery. Two of these are all that are left of the original four that formerly stood at the city’s outskirts to serve as a boundary marker. These statues, it is believed by locals, were carved in order to protect the so-called “Palace of the World.” As a representation of timelessness, the turtles were selected.
Ancient Karakorum Site
Chinggis Khaan founded the ancient city of Karakorum in the year 1220. After Chinggis Khaan’s death, the city was left in ruins until Chinggis Khaan’s son erected temples and a palace on the site, which later became known as the “Palace of the World.” The Manchus were responsible for the destruction of the location, which resulted in the bricks, walls, and pillars being strewn around. Everything at this location was used in the construction of the Erdene Zuu Monastery in the 16th century, including the walls and temples. Due to the limited amount of excavation that was done at this location, you will need to rely on your imagination to visualise the beauty of the site.
Phallic Rock
The Phallic Rock may be found in close proximity to one of the two carved turtles that serve as border markers for the city of Karakorum. The rock is well-known for its medical capabilities, particularly its ability to treat a variety of renal conditions and infertility. The chief monk of the adjacent monastery decided to build the rock as a symbol of humiliation for monks who chose to practise celibacy and as a deterrent for playful monks who could be tempted to socialise with women. It is important to note that the rock is pointing in the direction of an item that the native people refer to as a “vaginal slope.”
Great Imperial Map Monument
In the Karakorum hills that face southwest, there is a monument called the Great Imperial Map that is about 9 metres tall. It is a remarkable piece of architecture that illustrates the geographical extents of three main empires: that of the Hunnus, that of the Turkic, and that of the Mongols. A visitor’s interest in this spot is piqued not only by the maps, but also by the specific position of the monument. The breathtaking panorama of the surrounding area that can be seen from this location is enough to make anybody lose their breath.
