Shamanism, also known as Tengerism, is something people usually have heard of, but very few have experienced it. In fact, this is a kind of spiritual belief stemming from the Stone and Bronze Ages and still exists in the steppes of Eurasia, in particular, in Mongolia. Since those ancient times, herdsmen and hunters have been worshiping Mother Earth referring to it as Etugan, and Eternal Heaven—namely Munkh Tenger, along with other spirits of nature and their ancestors. A shaman is the one who makes the spiritual connection, the one who establishes the gateway to the afterlife, and allows you to interact with the spirits via meditation. A traditional shaman session consists of 8 musical and dancing rituals. In Mongolia, there are several regions widely practicing Shamanism even after 70 years of Communist repression. These involve northern tribes like Tsaatans, Darkhads, and Hotgoit; also the Hamnigan and Buryat tribes from the north-east, Urianhais from the west of Mongolia, and the Halh Mongols. Actually, shamanism is now reviving after a long-lasting decline, and the best time to meditate with shamans is summer solstice or the Ulaan Tergel celebration which draws local shamans as well as others from far away. Usually this celebration occurs between June 20th and June 22nd.
Practical info
When is the prime occasion to encounter Shamanism in Mongolia?
One can experience Shamanism in Mongolia during the Ulaan Tergel celebration or summer solstice. The three-day festival typically falls between June 20th and June 22nd, featuring local and out-of-town shamans. The festivities honor ancestors and connect individuals with nature through music, ritual dancing, and meditation. Show more
What areas in Mongolia offer a Shamanistic experience?
Mongolia has widespread Shamanism with areas providing ritual experiences. Tribes like Hamnigan, Buryat, Urianhais, and Halh Mongols offer unique experiences. Tsaatans, Darkhads, and Hotgoit in northern Mongolia also offer opening gateways for spiritual attainment. The tradition is being revived after many years of suppression during Communist reign. Show more
What makes the Ulaan Tergel celebration significant for Shamanism?
The Ulaan Tergel celebration allows individuals to connect to their ancestors and nature via spiritual rituals, birthing power over the universe. The three-day festival occurs during summer solstice with sun at its zenith. The activities showcase meditation, dancing, and music led by shamans, who invite participants to tune in to spirits and receive counsel. Show more
What is the average duration of traditional shaman sessions?
The customary shaman sessions can last several hours, and typically involve eight music and dance-rich rituals. The length may vary depending on the shaman. Shamans establish a connection with spirits and enter trance-like states. Participants follow suit, meditate, and endeavor to connect with their ancestors, receiving guidance in the process. Show more
Besides Tsaatans, Darkhads, and Hotgoit, which other tribes in Mongolia practice Shamanism?
Several other Mongolian tribes practice Shamanism aside from Tsaatans, Darkhads, and Hotgoit. Hamnigan, Buryat, Urianhais, and Halh Mongols provide an opportunity to experience spiritual practices that have been revered since the Stone and Bronze Ages. The practice thrived centuries ago but was repressed for more than 70 years during the Communist regime in the country. Show more
