EQUESTRIAN STATUE OF CHINGGIS KHAAN

This gigantic stainless steel equestrian statue of Chinggis Khaan stands on the spot where the legendary Mongolian emperor is said to have discovered a golden whip (which explains why the rider carries it in one hand). At 40 meters high, it is the largest equestrian statue in the world, standing on a circular base of 10 meters high supported by 36 columns symbolizing the 36 kings who succeeded Chinggis Khaan, until Ligden Khaan. It symbolically faces east and the province of Khentiy, his homeland. It is the most visited place in Mongolia, Mongolians go there quite regularly to honor the one who became again, after 1992, the hero of a whole people. There is a rather kitsch side, but impressive: a structure so imposing in a huge steppe which is just as much, the spectacle has what to seduce. In the basement of the imposing statue, a small museum exposes objects of the history of Mongolia and its warriors, as well as a ger supposed to represent what was the habitat of a Mongolian emperor at the time of Chinggis. One can also watch a short film on the history and the stages of the construction of the complex. However, it is the climb inside the statue, and the terrace installed on the horse's mane, just below the menacing gaze of the world's greatest conqueror, that is the highlight of the visit. From there, the view is quite impressive and covers the whole surrounding steppe. Not to be missed, if only to see the excitement of the Mongols, who have made it a real place of pilgrimage.

Inside the circular base of the statue, there is a restaurant and a café where you can eat and have refreshments while admiring the surrounding steppe from one of the bay windows. The complex also has a small souvenir store. In the entrance hall stands also the largest boot in the world, 9 meters high. This traditional Mongolian shoe weighs over two tons. It was built in 2007 and was once listed in the Guinness Book of Records. From the second floor, you will see many offerings, in the form of bills, thrown inside.

Around the statue, a huge tourist complex is under construction: besides the other statues representing the faithful generals of Chinggis, more than 200 yurts are planned, as well as a ski slope, a visitor center, etc.