Chinggis Khaan Statue Complex

The World's Tallest Equestrian Statue at Tsonjin Boldog

Fifty-four kilometres east of Ulaanbaatar, on the bank of the Tuul River at a site called Tsonjin Boldog, a colossal 40-metre stainless-steel statue of Chinggis Khaan on horseback catches the light across the open steppe. Built from 250 tonnes of steel and opened in 2008 to mark the 800th anniversary of the Mongol Empire, it holds the record as the world’s tallest equestrian statue.

A Legend Marks the Spot

Tsonjin Boldog was chosen deliberately: legend holds that a young Temüjin, later Chinggis Khaan, found a golden whip here around 1177 while travelling to seek help from Toiril Khan — an omen of destined leadership in Mongolian tradition. The finished statue holds a whip in its right hand and faces east, toward Temüjin’s birthplace near the Onon River.

Engineering and Symbolism

The statue stands atop a 10-metre visitor centre ringed by 36 columns, representing the 36 khans who ruled from Chinggis Khaan to Ligdan Khan, with an entrance gate decorated by statues of his nine legendary generals. Visitors ride an elevator up through the horse’s legs and body to an observation deck near the head, taking in sweeping views across the surrounding steppe.

A Museum of the Mongol Empire

Inside the base, a museum displays Hunnu-era and Mongol Empire artefacts, replica weapons and armour, and everyday tools illustrating 12th and 13th century nomadic life — alongside a Guinness World Record-holding traditional boot standing nine metres tall.

Gallery

• Ride the elevator up through the horse to the observation deck
• Explore the museum of Mongol Empire artefacts and armour
• See the world's largest traditional Mongolian boot
• Photograph the statue against the open Tuul River steppe