Khram Vorota

Khram Vorota (Temple Gate) is a rock arch on the western slope of Mount Alkhanai, inside Alkhanai National Park in Zabaykalsky Krai (Duldurginsky municipal district). The outcrop stands at an altitude of about 1,100–1,155 meters, 250 meters from a stone chapel, on the steep left side of the Ubzhogoyo river valley. Its local name is Uuden Sume.

Nature

Geologically it is a natural arch formed by the weathering of igneous rock from an ancient volcano.

History and legends

The cult of this place may date back to pre-Buddhist times. Buddhists consider Khram Vorota an entrance to the Pure Lands of the Deities: the place is believed to pacify evil and cure illness. According to one legend, the spirit of a sacrifice made here passes in a straight line through the arch's opening to reach the master of Olkhon Island. According to another version, passing through the neighboring crevice, known as the Sinners' Gap, is linked to the Bardo state (Zaguurdi), in which, according to Buddhist beliefs, a person's consciousness dwells after death.

What to see

A suburgan, a Buddhist stupa, stands on a platform beneath the arch's vault. Khram Vorota is part of the religious ensemble of Mount Alkhanai, a visit considered obligatory for pilgrims. Every year on June 29, lamas from the Aginsky datsan hold a solemn prayer service here in honor of Alkhanai's master, the idam Demchog; it is believed that he is truly present on the mountain that day.

Getting there

From Chita it is about 170–250 km to the park by car. Alternatively, take a train to Chita and then a taxi, or bus No. 512 to the village of Duldurga and a taxi to the park checkpoint. From the checkpoint, a circular hiking trail about 8 kilometers long leads to Khram Vorota, taking roughly 6 hours, medium difficulty. The visiting season runs from June to September.

Good to know

The park enforces several rules: lighting butter lamps is prohibited because of fire risk, tying khadaks (ceremonial scarves) and zuram ribbons to trees is not allowed, vodka may not be used as an offering, and candy wrappers must not be left behind. Rockfalls are common along the trail.