Chonos Chogostkhaan
Female shaman of the Darkhad people
Chonos has dedicated itself to protecting Mongolia’s tangible and intangible heritage, performing sacred rituals to maintain harmony between humanity and nature, and organizing nationwide cultural projects that honor ancestral wisdom.
Alongside its cultural missions, Chonos annually organizes charity programs in cooperation with provincial and district authorities, providing donations and New Year gifts to children and families in remote areas.
Background
Some people only have to be present to lift you back onto your feet. Chonos Chogostkhaan is one of them. A medicine woman, a great healer and the leader of the Samga association of Mongolian shamans, she carries a power the steppe seems to have entrusted to her long ago. With her, there is no need to justify or explain yourself: she sees. And in her gaze, the women who meet her feel whole, strong, exactly where they are meant to be. She will lead our ceremonies, and it is into her hands that we will place the deepest intentions of the journey.
Activities
- 2009–2015: Conducted spiritual pilgrimages throughout Mongolia, gathering the lords of all sacred mountains and uniting them on the summit of Burenkhaan Mountain in the Sayan Range.
- 2016–2020: Carried out the grand mission “In Search of the White Lus,” connecting the nine heavens of the “White Banner with Nine Tails.”
- 2017–2019: Organized the “Blue Pearl” International Fire Ritual Festival in cooperation with the Khuvsgul Governor’s Office and the Ministry of Culture which is recognized as the best cultural event of the year.
- 2019: Partnered with Chinese photographer Mr. Baatar to document Mongolian heritage across Inner Mongolia, Tuva, Altai, Buryatia, and Khakassia, later exhibited internationally.
- 2021–2022: With the Swiss Development Agency, implemented the Project, introducing Darkhad and Tsaatan reindeer herders’ lifestyles to the world that awarded as the Best Project of 2022.
- 2022–2024: Revived the ancient Black Banner Spirit Heaven in the Land of the Khans, integrating Mongolia’s sacred Lus heavens through nationwide spiritual journeys.
In brief...
Chonos Chogostkhaan is an exceptional medicine woman, a great healer and the leader of the Samga group of shamans. In her presence, you feel strong. Meeting her on her own land, in all her power, is one of the greatest gifts this journey offers.