Hundreds of residents gathered around Aobao, a cone-shaped mound adorned with ribbons, to offer sacrifice as a routine ritual ceremony held in Urad Middle Banner, Bayannur, Inner Mongolia autonomous region on Aug 18. 

Aobao ritual is a Mongolian tradition in which they pray to the spirits for peace and a good harvest. During the ceremony, bottles of holy water, milk tea, libation, scriptures, and letters containing prayers are placed on the mound, after which the mound is covered with colorful ribbons.

Originally a landmark for herdsmen navigating the grasslands, Aobao is usually piled with stones, sand and branches. After of the reign of Genghis Khan, Aobao served as a sacred tomb honoring warriors who died during combat, with the swords and axes of martyrs inserted in the mound’s peak.

Aobao has gradually become a place for sacrificial offerings where locals pray to the mountain or spirits, as well as their ancestors. Nowadays, people offer corn, meat, fruit and alcohol at Aobao and pray for good weather, a good harvest and good fortune. 

The sacrificial rites can be on a small scale or part of a grand ceremony. Some also dress in unique Mongolian-style costumes holding hada, pieces of different colored silk cloth which symbolize different auspicious meanings.

Locals circle around Aobao to pray for happiness at Hailiutu town, Urad Middle Banner, Bayannur, Inner Mongolia autonomous region on Aug 18, 2017. [Photo/Xinhua]