In Search of the Lost Tomb of Genghis Khan

Mystery of Genghis Khan Final Resting place
Genghis Khan Founded One of the Biggest Empires in Human History


Genghis Khan, the founder and first emperor of the Mongol Empire, is considered to be one of the most important figures in world history. Born as Temujin in 1162, he went on to conquer vast territories, creating a vast empire that spanned from Asia to Europe and at the height of his power received the title Genghis Khan, or Ruler of the World, that reflected the reality of his rule over over the majority of the known world at that time.

However, despite his immense power and influence, the location of his final resting place remains a mystery, shrouded in myths and legends.

In this article, we will explore the various theories about where Genghis Khan can be buried together with the treasure of immensable value. Before delving into the various theories, it's worth understanding the context of Genghis Khan's life and death. 

The End of Genghis Khan's Life

Genghis Khan passed away in August 1227 at the age of 65. According to the historical accounts, it happened in his camp while leading a campaign against the Western Xia Empire in present-day China. 

His passing was kept secret for some time to prevent unrest and maintain stability in the army. However, eventually, it was announced, and his body was brought back to Mongolia. The funeral ceremony was a grand affair, with several thousands of people in attendance, including his family, soldiers, and tribal leaders. It is believed that Genghis Khan was laid to rest with his beloved horse, which was an important symbol of his power and status as a warrior and a leader.

After the ceremony, Genghis Khan was secretly transported to an unmarked tomb, and those who witnessed it were physically removed to ensure his final resting place remained a secret. This was done to prevent grave robbers from stealing valuable treasures, but it also made it very hard for us to locate his burial site.

The Lost Tomb of Genghis Khan
The Location of Genghis Khan's Resting Place, Alongside the Immense Treasure Within, Remains Unknown

There are different places that could serve as Genghis Khan final resting place and could be chosen due the religious meaning or some connection with Genghis life.

Possible Locations of Genghis Khan's Tomb

One of the most popular theories about Genghis Khan's final resting place is the Burkhan Khaldun. The Burkhan Khaldun is a sacred mountain located in the northeastern Mongolia.

According to the local legends, Genghis Khan was buried in a secret location inside the mountain. It's believed that his coffin was carried up to the peak of the mountain, and his body was placed in a cave. The entrance to the cave was then sealed off with rocks, and his soldiers removed anyone who witnessed the event to ensure the location remained a secret.

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Genghis Khan's Tomb Could Be Situated in Some Cave
 

Several expeditions have been conducted on the mountain to search for Genghis Khan's burial site, but none have been successful. In 2004, the Mongolian government allowed a joint expedition by the National Geographic Society and the University of California to explore the mountain. However, the team failed to find any conclusive evidence of Genghis Khan's burial site.

Another theory suggests that Genghis Khan was buried in the Onon River, which is located in the northeastern part of the country. The Onon River flowed through the original birthplace of Genghis Khan, and it's believed that he wanted to be buried close to his homeland. In that case, Genghis Khan's coffin could be carried down the river, and his body buried at the confluence of the Onon River and the Balj River, near the modern-day city of Dadal in Mongolia.

There are a few examples of Mongol burials in rivers that have been discovered by archaeologists from the same era. One such example is the burial site of a young woman, known as the "Lady of the River," which was discovered in the Selenga River in northern Mongolia. The burial dates back to the 13th century, and the woman was buried with her horse, weapons, and other belongings.

Another theory suggests that Genghis Khan was buried in the Liupan Mountains in China. The Liupan Mountains are located in the Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region in China and are believed to be the location of Genghis Khan's secret burial site. According to the legend, Genghis Khan's body was transported from Mongolia to the Liupan Mountains by his loyal followers. His body was then buried in a cave on the mountain, and the entrance to the cave was sealed off with rocks.

Genghis Khan was buried together with his beloved horse
Genghis Khan was a skilled horse rider and an aficionado of horses during his lifetime

Several expeditions have been conducted in the Liupan Mountains to search for Genghis Khan's burial site, but none have been successful. The Chinese government has also designated the area a protected site, making it difficult for researchers to explore the area thoroughly.

There are also several other hypothesis about where Genghis Khan could be buried. Some believe that he was buried in the Gobi Desert, in that case his tomb should be preserved exceptionally intact due dry desert conditions.While others believe that he was buried in the Amur River, which is located on the border between China and Russia. Some even believe that Genghis Khan was not buried at all, but instead, his body was burned.

However, some researchers believe that Genghis Khan's burial site might have already been destroyed due to natural disasters or the actions of tomb raiders. It's important to note that the search for Genghis Khan's burial site has been ongoing for centuries, and despite numerous expeditions and efforts, the site has never been found.

It's possible that the burial site may have been looted or destroyed over time, or that it may be located in a place that is difficult to access or to search. Regardless of the potential treasure that could be found, the discovery of Genghis Khan's burial site would be a significant historical and archaeological discovery.

The Contents of Genghis Khan's Grave

Besides the location, the contents of Genghis Khan's tomb, if it were to be discovered, remain a mystery. However, there is speculation that the tomb could contain significant treasure and artifacts.

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The precise location of Genghis Khan's tomb is lost in time

Genghis Khan was known to have taken large quantities of gold, silver, and precious jewels from his conquered territories and some part of it was probably offered as a funeral gift for the deceased warrior.

Given the significance of Genghis Khan's relationship with his horses, it's likely that he was buried with one or more of his favorite horses as a mark of his honor and warrior status. Genghis Khan himself was known to have had a deep affinity for horses. He was known to have owned many horses and to have taken great care of them. In fact, it's believed that Genghis Khan had a stable of over 10,000 horses, which were tended to by specialized grooms and trainers.

Regardless of where he is buried, Genghis Khan's legacy and impact on world history cannot be denied. He was a formidable military strategist and warrior who conquered vast territories, created a powerful empire, and changed the course of history forever.

In an era where information is at our fingertips, these enigmatic puzzles persist, defying centuries of exploration and technological advancements. Unresolved mysteries, such as the location of Genghis Khan's lost tomb, contribute to the beauty of our world.

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