Brent Olson’s Journal

I recently co-led a wonderful trip to Mongolia with a hardy group of travelers with Buddhist scholar, Dr. Robert Thurman. We visited Ulan Baatar, Lake Hvosgol and the ancient capital of Kharhorin. We had the honor of meeting with the abbots of both Erdene Zuu Monastery and Ganden Monastery — two of the most significant Buddhist monasteries in Mongolia.

Throughout the trip, Dr. Thurman provided Buddhist mediations and lectures on the reintroduction of Buddhism to Mongolia after it’s near eradication by the Communist in the 1930’s and 40’s. Under Mongolia’s fledgling democratic government, Buddhism is once again beginning to flourish and our group was able to learn more of the rebuilding efforts of the monasteries and the education of the Mongolian people.

During our visit to Lake Hvosgol, we organized a private Nadaam festival for our group that including wrestling, some archery and 3 dramatic, cross country horse races. For photos of the trip, please visit my photo library.