Winter Palace of the Bogd Khan, Buddhist palace museum in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia
The Winter Palace of the Bogd Khan is a museum complex in Ulaanbaatar containing seven temples arranged around two courtyards with bright red, green, blue, white, and gold painted walls. The grounds include twenty buildings that house Buddhist artworks, traditional weapons, and personal belongings of the last Mongolian ruler.
Construction took place between 1893 and 1903 as a residence for the Bogd Khan, who became Mongolia's first independent state ruler in 1911. This building's creation coincided with a pivotal moment in the country's journey toward sovereignty.
The complex reflects Buddhist religious practice through its temple layout and decorated chambers, where visitors can see how monks and worshippers once moved through these spaces. The arrangement of buildings around courtyards reveals how daily spiritual life was organized within these walls.
The complex sits near the Tuul River and can be reached from Peace Bridge, with buildings open for exploration throughout the year. Wear comfortable shoes to walk the grounds, as the site covers a fair amount of space.
A ceremonial building on the grounds holds around 150 snow leopard skins, a rare collection reflecting historical hunting traditions. Personal items such as the decorated regalia of a royal elephant are also displayed within these special rooms.
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