Genghis Khan Mausoleum

成吉思汗陵

A grand historical site honoring the legendary founder of the Mongol Empire, located in Ordos with impressive Mongolian architectural design. The mausoleum complex provides deep cultural insights into Mongolian heritage and remains one of Inner Mongolia's most visited attractions.

Things to do

• Tour the Main Mausoleum Hall — Explore the central shrine housing the symbolic tomb of Genghis Khan, adorned with traditional Mongolian decorative elements and historical artifacts.
• Visit the Mongolian Yurt Exhibition — Experience authentic traditional gers (yurts) displaying period furnishings, clothing, and daily life items from the Mongol Empire era.
• Attend the Ceremonial Guard Changing — Watch uniformed guards perform traditional Mongolian ceremonial routines at scheduled times throughout the day.
• Walk the Sacred Pilgrimage Route — Follow the designated pathway circling the mausoleum complex while observing traditional Mongolian ritual practices.
• Explore the Museum of Genghis Khan — Study extensive exhibits of artifacts, weapons, documents, and historical records detailing the life and conquests of the Mongol founder.
• Browse the Mongolian Handicraft Market — Shop for traditional leather goods, felt crafts, bone carvings, and Mongolian artwork at vendors within the complex grounds.

Food to try

• Lamb Hotpot (羊肉火锅) — A signature Inner Mongolian dish featuring tender lamb sliced thin and cooked in simmering broth at your table, often served at nearby restaurants.
• Mongolian Milk Tea (奶茶) — A traditional beverage made with fermented milk, tea leaves, and salt that reflects nomadic pastoral heritage and is commonly available throughout the site.
• Hand-Pulled Lamb Noodles (手撕羊肉面) — Local noodle dish featuring hand-pulled wheat noodles topped with shredded braised lamb and aromatic spices popular in Ordos.
• Mongolian Dairy Products (奶制品) — Traditional cheese curds, yogurt, and dried milk products that showcase the pastoralist food traditions central to Mongolian culture.
• Roasted Whole Lamb (烤羊) — A ceremonial feast dish where lamb is slow-roasted and traditionally served during special occasions at mausoleum dining facilities.

Local customs & good to know

• Respect the Sacred Space — Remove hats when entering the main mausoleum hall and avoid pointing at religious artifacts or symbolic items as signs of reverence.
• Understand Mongolian Directional Customs — The mausoleum's layout follows traditional Mongolian orientation with the entrance facing south; walking counterclockwise is considered proper ritual practice.
• Learn Basic Mongolian Greetings — Using phrases like 'Sain bainuu' (hello) shows respect to local staff and enhances cultural connection with this important heritage site.
• Dress Appropriately for Seasons — Inner Mongolia experiences extreme temperature shifts; dress in layers and prepare for strong winds, which are common year-round in this highland region.