About Erdene Zuu Monastery
Erdene Zuu was founded in 1585 by Abtai Sain Khan after his embrace of Tibetan Buddhism, and it is the oldest surviving Buddhist monastery in Mongolia. It rises in the Orkhon Valley close to the ruins of Karakorum, the 13th century capital of the Mongol Empire, and builders reused stones from the old city in its construction.
A great square wall crowned by 108 white stupas encloses the grounds. Most of the monastery's sixty temples were destroyed in the purges of 1937, but three main temples in Chinese and Mongol styles survived and now serve partly as museums. A working Tibetan-style temple, Lavrin Sum, hosts daily prayers. The surrounding Orkhon Valley cultural landscape is listed by UNESCO for its long nomadic and imperial history.
What to see
- Wall of 108 white stupas
- Zuu temples of the Buddha's three ages
- Lavrin Sum Tibetan temple and morning prayers
- Golden Stupa built in 1799
- Nearby Karakorum museum and stone turtles
Visiting Erdene Zuu Monastery: practical guide
- Best time
- June to September
- Hours
- Daily, about 9:00 to 18:00 in summer
- Entry
- About 5,000 MNT; temple museums extra
- Dress code
- Modest clothing
- Nearest airport
- Chinggis Khaan International Airport (UBN), 360 km
Tips from experienced pilgrims
- Combine with the Kharkhorin Museum to understand Karakorum
- Stay in a nearby ger camp for an authentic night on the steppe
- Bring cash, since card payment is limited
Festivals and special days
- Naadam (July)
- Tsagaan Sar
Etiquette for visitors
Guidance drawn from Buddhism tradition. Always follow signs and local custodians.
- Remove shoes and hats before entering temple halls.
- Cover shoulders and knees, and avoid revealing clothing.
- Never point your feet toward a Buddha image or monk.
- Women should not touch or hand items directly to Theravada monks.
- Walk clockwise around stupas and prayer wheels.
- Do not climb on or pose disrespectfully with Buddha statues.
Location map
Open in OpenStreetMap · Get directions
Frequently asked questions
Where is Erdene Zuu Monastery?
Erdene Zuu Monastery is in Kharkhorin, Ovorkhangai Province, Mongolia, Asia. GPS coordinates: 47.2017, 102.8433. The nearest airport is Chinggis Khaan International Airport (UBN), 360 km.
What is the best time to visit Erdene Zuu Monastery?
June to September
Is there an entry fee for Erdene Zuu Monastery?
About 5,000 MNT; temple museums extra Opening hours: Daily, about 9:00 to 18:00 in summer
What should I wear when visiting Erdene Zuu Monastery?
Modest clothing
Which religion is Erdene Zuu Monastery sacred to?
Erdene Zuu Monastery is sacred to Buddhism. Active place of worship. It is part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
