Travel Blog
Mongolia is My Compassion and My Love
Hello, fellow travelers! I'm Odko, a compassionate traveler and guide, and I'm here to share my love for Mongolia with you. Growing up with my nomadic parents and grandparents, I’ve always felt deeply connected to the land. From the vast Gobi Desert to the stunning Great Lakes, there's a magic in Mongolia that you can’t find anywhere else.
Horseback riding is a huge part of my journey—there’s nothing like feeling the rhythm of the horse beneath you while taking in the breathtaking landscapes. For me, travel isn't just about the places you see, but the energy you feel from nature itself—the fresh, pure air and the endless horizons of Mongolia.
Along the way, I’ve had the privilege of meeting incredible companions who become lifelong friends. Whether it's a shared sunset over the Gobi or a quiet moment by the Great Lakes, it's these connections that make the journey unforgettable.
Join me, and let's explore Mongolia together—where adventure, friendship, and nature await at every turn. See you on the trails!
(And it is our first blog article! Expect more to come and Enjoy!)
Intersection of Buddhism and Nomadic Culture
The integration of Buddhism into the nomadic lifestyle is fascinating and reflects how the two have influenced each other:
Spiritual Life on the Move: While Mongolia is a vast country with sparse population density, Buddhism spread through the construction of temples and the travel of monks between nomadic families. Many nomads continue to practice Buddhism in their daily lives, even while on the move. Portable altars, prayer wheels, and Buddhist icons are found in many nomadic homes.
Buddhist Pilgrimages: Nomads often take pilgrimages to important Buddhist sites, such as monasteries or sacred mountains. This is especially true during festivals or special ceremonies.
Integration with Traditional Beliefs: Buddhism coexists with aspects of Mongolian animism. For example, sacred mountains and rivers are revered in both Buddhist and shamanistic traditions, and elements of Tibetan Buddhism like prayer flags and mandalas are sometimes combined with older practices.
Rituals and Celebrations: Traditional Mongolian rituals, like shamanistic prayers or offerings, often blend with Buddhist ceremonies, creating a syncretic spiritual culture. During holidays, Buddhist prayers are offered to ensure the well-being of livestock and the prosperity of the family.