Sacred mountains

The tradition of worshipping sacred mountains has survived in Mongolia since prehistoric times. The most important sacred mountains are worshipped every several years in large-scale ceremonies, but even minor mountains are worshipped by locals on a regular basis.

Three mountains have been proposed by Mongolia for nomination to the World Heritage List: BOGD XAN MOUNTAIN, BURXAN XALDUN, and OTGON TENGER. Collectively these three mountains mark the physical and psychological "triangulation marks" that define the boundaries of the Mongolian sacred homeland.

The tradition of protecting nature has a long history in Mongolia. The three mountains described here all represent sacred properties first identified by CHINGIS XAAN in the 13th century, protected by the XALX ZHURAM law which was in place between 1709 and 1799. They are the most important of the 16 sacred mountains of Mongolia protected by tradition, common law and royal decree. The designation of these sites as sacred natural areas has meant that they have been conserved and treated with respect for centuries.

Visitors to a sacred mountain typically make offerings and possibly make a wish to the mountain-spirit; it is considered inappropriate for anyone to ascend a sacred mountain without such a ritual purpose. Women are not permitted to climb the mountain, but may pay their respects by circumambulation.

Sacred mountains are usually given honourific titles, such as "xairxan", "xaan", "burxan", or "bogd". The name "xairxan" comes from the name of a spirit living under the ground, worshipped by Mongolians in ancient times. The name xan has the same origin as "xaan" (khan), and originally meant the greatest man in a group. The titles "Bogd" and "burxan" mean "god", and are reserved for only the most revered and sacred mountains.

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