10 Things to Do in Amarbayasgalant Monastery, Arvayheer, Mongolia
Mongolia is a country steeped in history and culture, and Amarbayasgalant Monastery is one of the most important Buddhist sites in the country. Located in the Arvayheer region of Mongolia, the Amarbayasgalant Monastery is a beautiful complex of temples and monasteries that is home to a vibrant Buddhist community. Whether you’re looking for a spiritual journey or simply want to explore some of Mongolia’s most stunning architecture, Amarbayasgalant Monastery is the perfect destination. Here are 10 things to do when you visit Amarbayasgalant Monastery, Arvayheer, Mongolia.
1. Explore the Monastery Complex: The Amarbayasgalant Monastery complex is made up of several temples and monasteries, each of which has its own unique history and architecture. The main temple, the Amarbayasgalant Monastery, was built in 1727 and is the largest of the complex’s structures. The monastery is home to several important Buddhist relics, including a statue of the Buddha, and is a popular pilgrimage site for Mongolian Buddhists.
2. Visit the Museum of Tibetan and Mongolian Art: The Museum of Tibetan and Mongolian Art is located within the Amarbayasgalant Monastery complex and is home to a large collection of Buddhist art and artifacts. The museum showcases a wide variety of traditional Buddhist art, including thangkas, sculptures, and paintings.
3. Attend a Buddhist Ceremony: Amarbayasgalant Monastery is home to an active Buddhist community, and visitors are welcome to attend ceremonies and rituals. The monastery holds regular prayer services, and visitors can also attend special ceremonies such as weddings and funerals.
4. Hike the Surrounding Mountains: The Amarbayasgalant Monastery is surrounded by the beautiful Arvayheer Mountains, which offer a variety of hiking trails. The trails are well-marked and offer stunning views of the monastery and the surrounding landscape.
5. Visit the Local Markets: The markets in Arvayheer are a great place to find traditional Mongolian souvenirs and handicrafts. The markets are filled with vendors selling a variety of items, including jewelry, clothing, and traditional snacks.
6. Take a Hot Air Balloon Ride: For a unique way to explore the area, take a hot air balloon ride over the Arvayheer Mountains. You’ll get a bird’s-eye view of the Amarbayasgalant Monastery and the surrounding landscape.
7. Go Horseback Riding: Horseback riding is a popular activity in the Arvayheer region, and there are a variety of routes to explore. You can take a leisurely ride around the monastery or explore the surrounding mountains and valleys.
8. Visit the Local Villages: The Arvayheer region is home to several traditional Mongolian villages, and visiting these villages is a great way to learn more about the local culture. The villages are filled with friendly locals who are more than happy to show visitors around.
9. Enjoy a Picnic: The grounds of the Amarbayasgalant Monastery are a great place to relax and enjoy a picnic. The grounds are surrounded by lush greenery, and you can find plenty of spots to set up a picnic blanket and enjoy the views.
10. Take a Meditation Retreat: The Amarbayasgalant Monastery offers a variety of meditation retreats for those looking to deepen their practice. The retreats are led by experienced Buddhist teachers and offer a peaceful and tranquil environment for spiritual exploration.