Table of Contents
Introduction
Mongolia is a land of nomadic herders, vast steppes, and grand mountains. But scattered across this rugged landscape lie the ruins of ancient cities and settlements that tell the story of the mighty 13th century Mongol Empire. Trekking through these historic remnants offers an up-close look into a fascinating past. By exploring prominent sites like Karakorum, Kharkhorin, and the Khentii Mountains, adventurous travelers can trace the rise of Genghis Khan, see how Mongol influence shaped trade and culture, and envision life in these remote outposts centuries ago. With proper preparation and an appreciation for Mongolia’s heritage, ruins-seekers will gain perspective and unlock the secrets of the past by embarking on their own journey into ancient Mongolian history.
The Mongol Empire
The Mongol Empire emerged from the unification of Mongol tribes under the leadership of Genghis Khan in the early 13th century. Through extensive military campaigns, the Mongols conquered land and people across Asia and Europe. At its height, the Mongol Empire was the largest contiguous empire in history, spanning from Eastern Europe to the Sea of Japan. It facilitated increased communication and trade between the East and West. Bringing stability to the Silk Road trading route, it enabled a flourishing exchange of goods and ideas. The Mongols were relatively tolerant of different religions and cultures over their vast territory. Archaeology and narratives from the era reveal rich details about Mongol society, administration, and politics. Remnants from this 750-year old empire endure across Mongolia, China, Central Asia, and beyond.
Prominent Ruins to Explore
Karakorum
Karakorum was established in 1220 as the capital of the Mongol Empire under Genghis Khan. Located along the Orkhon River Valley, this center of imperial power features the ruins of the original capital city. Here you can see remnants of the stone turtle that once supported a giant silver statue in front of the palace gates. Search among the grassy mounds to uncover sections of the massive walls that surrounded the palace grounds. North of the city stands the imposing ruins of Erdene Zuu monastery, constructed in 1585 using stones taken from Karakorum. This site provides an imposing glimpse into Karakorum’s past glory as the Mongol’s seat of government and cultural exchange.
Kharkhorin
After Kublai Khan took power and moved the capital to current day Beijing, his successor decided to move the capital back to Mongolia and built Kharkhorin in 1235. This second Mongol capital served as the imperial center for around 20 years. A rangy expanse of grassy mounds and occasional free-standing walls, Kharkhorin’s ruins offer a sense of the city’s former scope and street layout. Nearby stands the largely intact Erdene Zuu Monastery, constructed from Kharkhorin’s ruins. Containing Mongolia’s first Buddhist temple, this site is an impressive example of old and new Dob Dobi architecture interwoven with Mongolian, Tibetan, and Chinese influences.
Khentii Mountains
The Khentii Mountain range holds special significance as the birthplace of Genghis Khan along the Onon River near Delüün Boldog mountain. Here you can see remnants of defensive walls used by Genghis Khan’s army along with ancient burial grounds and shrines. Trekking through the vast taiga forests presents opportunities to spot deer, wolves, and even brown bears. Beyond the natural beauty, you can reflect on the early life of the famous Mongolian leader that came from humble beginnings in this rugged region.
Planning Your Visit
Visiting Mongolia’s ruins requires some strategic preparation. Summer offers mild weather perfect for exploring relics on foot, while winter limits accessibility. Most sites are accessible between May and September. Organizing transportation can be tricky as public transit options are limited. Consider hiring a driver or guide who can also serve as an interpreter. Mongolian tourism companies offer specialized tour packages. Budget extra time when traveling between locations due to long distances and lack of infrastructure. Camping near site ruins allows you to maximize your time. Alternatively, lodging options like guest gers, yurts, hostels, and hotels exist near some of the major complexes.
What to Expect When Exploring
Exploring Mongolian ruins immerses you in the natural landscape as much as the relics of the past. Crisp air, open skies, and rolling steppes surround these sites. Expect plenty of walking over dirt tracks, fields, and grassy mounds as you navigate ruins devoid of distinct barriers or signs. Pack layers to be prepared for fickle weather. Hiring a knowledgeable guide provides invaluable context for interpreting the significance of what you see. Mind your footsteps as you tread upon stone foundations, walls, and artifacts delicate from centuries of neglect. Yet also recognize the scale and engineering required to construct fortifications to withstand the harsh environment. Stop frequently to ponder the rise and fall of cultures long ago. Discover small signs of Mongolia’s heritage – pottery shards, weathered bricks, guard tower bases – poking through the loamy soil with the attentive eye of an archaeologist.
Key Tips for Your Trip
Opting for an organized tour takes the guesswork out of coordinating the logistics and identification of sites. Seek out guides proficient in Mongolian history to enrich your understanding beyond just pointing out structures. Exploring less-visited areas requires 4×4 vehicles or hardy vehicles given the lack of paved roads and nomadic herders crossing the steppes. Packing wisely is key in this rugged region. Bring hardy hiking boots, warm layers, lightweight camping gear, and provisions. A sun hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen are essentials during warm summer months. Cultural considerations include showing respect when visiting active temples and monasteries along with having modest attire. Leave no trace principles apply to keeping these sites preserved for the future.
Appreciating Mongolia’s Rich History
The opportunity to discover ruins dating back to the 13th century within the very landscape that shaped that history is a powerful experience. By taking the time to explore centuries-old ruins, modern perspectives shift to appreciate how the past set the foundation for the present. Witnessing the rise and fall of an empire that connected diverse cultures promotes global thinking. Sites like Karakorum and Erdene Zuu monastery stand as a testament to the possibilities of the Silk Road exchange of ideas that shaped philosophy, technology, and trade. Beyond the geopolitical legacy, glimpsing the everyday objects and structures conveys the human scale of distant eras. Trekking through Mongolia’s ruins can ignite the imagination about all that has yet to be discovered under these grassy fringes and how the future unfolding before us may one day be the past unearthed by a new generation of explorers.
Conclusion
Venturing into the Mongolian countryside to discover ancient ruins is a powerful way to glimpse history first-hand. Stone foundations and crumbling walls whisper tales of Genghis Khan’s nomadic warriors, religious institutions influencing culture, and trade routes linking east to west. Beyond the structures, the natural windswept beauty of Mongolia’s steppes and mountains evoke what life was like for those thriving communities so long ago. With careful planning for transport, gear, and provisions, ruins-seekers are rewarded with stirring perspectives on the past by immersing themselves within the very landscapes that sets the stage for the rise and fall of empires. By trekking through Mongolia’s historical remains, the echo of the past resonates more profoundly to appreciate the passage of time shaping civilization.
FAQs
What are some of the main ancient Mongolian ruins to visit?
Some of the top ancient Mongolian ruins to visit include Karakorum, Kharkhorin, and sites within the Khentii Mountains region. Each of these offer glimpses into the Mongol Empire such as palace grounds, temples, burial sites, and relics dating back many centuries.
When is the best time of year to visit Mongolian historical ruins?
The best time to visit Mongol ruins is during the warmer months between May and September. Summer offers mild weather perfect for exploring ruins on foot before winter starts to limit accessibility due to freezing temperatures and snow.
How can you reach ancient ruins sites within Mongolia?
Reaching Mongolian ruins can involve long drives between sites. Public transit is extremely limited so consider hiring a driver or guide. Many tour companies offer specialized packages. Hardy 4×4 vehicles are best for reaching remote ruins locations.
What supplies should you bring when exploring Mongolian ruins?
Packing wisely is key. Bring proper hiking boots, warm layers, lightweight camping gear, food, and plenty of water. A sun hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen are recommended for warmer months. Having a guidebook or map is useful too.
What precautions should you take when exploring ancient ruin sites?
Practice leave no trace principles and stay on marked paths to avoid damaging ruins. Having a guide provides context. Follow cultural considerations like dress etiquette when visiting active temples or monasteries near ruins.