Gandantegchinlen Monastery
Mongolia's principal Buddhist center, featuring a colossal 26.5m gilded Buddha statue and serene prayer halls.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Experience calm and witness rituals
Gandantegchinlen Monastery
Best Time
Experience calm and witness rituals
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Mongolia's principal Buddhist center, featuring a colossal 26.5m gilded Buddha statue and serene prayer halls.
"Incredible feeling of calmness and protection each time when I visit."
🚶♀️ Avoid Pigeon Swarms
If pigeons unnerve you, use alternative entrances to bypass the large flocks near the main gate.
💰 Entrance Fee for Main Temple
A small fee grants access to the main temple; wandering the rest of the complex is free.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Megjid Janraisig Statue
Main Temple
Marvel at the colossal 26.5-meter gilded bronze statue of Avalokitesvara, a breathtaking centerpiece.
Prayer Wheels
Monastery Grounds
Spin the numerous prayer wheels, each a vessel of blessings and good fortune, adding to the spiritual aura.
Monastic Chants
Main Assembly Hall
Experience the profound tranquility of the eternal Tsogchin chant, a continuous melody since 1654.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for Serenity
Respectful Exploration
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Avoid Pigeon Swarms
If pigeons unnerve you, use alternative entrances to bypass the large flocks near the main gate.
💰 Entrance Fee for Main Temple
A small fee grants access to the main temple; wandering the rest of the complex is free.
📚 Visit the Library
The library is free to enter and offers a quiet space for reflection and learning.
🎁 Gift Shop Treasures
Check out the well-priced and fairly valued items at the gift shop inside the temple.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Avoid Pigeon Swarms
If pigeons unnerve you, use alternative entrances to bypass the large flocks near the main gate.
💰 Entrance Fee for Main Temple
A small fee grants access to the main temple; wandering the rest of the complex is free.
📚 Visit the Library
The library is free to enter and offers a quiet space for reflection and learning.
🎁 Gift Shop Treasures
Check out the well-priced and fairly valued items at the gift shop inside the temple.
🙏 Monks' Prayer Services
Observe or participate in prayer services; some visitors pay monks for personalized prayers.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Gandantegchinlen Monastery is a highly recommended spiritual and cultural hub in Ulaanbaatar, praised for its serene atmosphere and the magnificent 26.5-meter gilded Buddha statue. Visitors appreciate the free access to most of the complex and the opportunity to learn about Buddhist history and culture. Some find the pigeon population near the entrance overwhelming, and a small fee is required for the main temple.
"gandantegchinlen monastery in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia, was originally built in 1835 which is Mongolia's principal center of Buddhist education. It was destroyed and rebuilt many times over the years. The major attraction of the monastery is the 26.5-meter gilded bronze statue of Buddha, which was rebuilt in 1996. There are multiple temples and assembly halls, and library within the complex.
The entire place is very beautiful and takes about 2 two hours to visit it."
Soudamini Mohapatra
"The main and biggest temple in UB and recently re-developed as well. Great atmosphere and I get incredible feeling of calmness and protection each time when I visit. Highly recommend the giftshop and store located inside the temple as their product well priced and fair value."
Uyanga Purevdorj
"Gandan Monastery is really beautiful. The complex has lots to see and experience. I learned a lot about the history of Buddhism and Mongolian history and culture."
Elizabeth Sauer
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The monastery is located in Ulaanbaatar, the capital of Mongolia. While not directly in the city center, it's accessible by taxi or local bus. Many visitors find taxis convenient for reaching the monastery and other attractions like the Zaisan Memorial. +2
Yes, the airport is about an hour's drive from Ulaanbaatar city, and the monastery is within the city. Plan your transportation accordingly, especially if arriving or departing.
Taxis are a common and relatively affordable way to get around Ulaanbaatar. Negotiate fares beforehand or use ride-hailing apps if available. Buses are also an option for budget travelers. +1
While possible, it's a significant walk. Taxis or buses are generally recommended for most visitors to save time and energy, especially considering Ulaanbaatar's size.
Consider combining your visit with other nearby attractions like the Zaisan Memorial to optimize your travel time. Taxis are readily available for hire.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There's a small entrance fee to access the main temple where the large Buddha statue is located. However, you can wander around the rest of the monastery complex for free.
The monastery is generally open daily, but specific hours for temples and ceremonies can vary. It's best to check locally or aim for morning or late afternoon visits.
Yes, there is a fee of 20,000 MNT (Mongolian Tugrik) to enter the main temple to see the 26-meter statue of Buddhist divinity.
Absolutely! The library is free to enter and offers a peaceful environment for visitors.
While the grounds are generally accessible, specific temple interiors might have limited hours or be closed during certain ceremonies. Respectful attire is advised.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The most prominent attraction is the magnificent 26.5-meter gilded bronze statue of Avalokitesvara (Buddha) housed in the main temple.
Most visitors spend about two hours exploring the monastery complex, including visiting the main temple and admiring the architecture.
Photography is generally allowed in the outer areas, but it may be restricted inside the main temple or during ceremonies. Always be respectful and check for signage.
Visitors often describe the atmosphere as peaceful, calm, and protective, offering a sense of serenity amidst the city.
You can witness monks performing daily chants and rituals, and some visitors opt to pay for personalized prayers from the monks.
📸 📸 Photography
The exterior architecture, the grand Megjid Janraisig statue, and the prayer wheels offer excellent photographic opportunities. The surrounding grounds also provide scenic views.
Photography might be restricted inside the main temple or during specific religious ceremonies. It's always best to be discreet and respectful of the sacred space.
Early mornings or late afternoons offer softer light, ideal for capturing the beauty of the monastery's architecture and the golden statue.
It's generally best to ask for permission before photographing individuals, especially monks, to ensure you are being respectful of their privacy and religious practices.
A versatile lens that can capture both wide architectural shots and details of the statues and prayer wheels would be beneficial. A tripod might be useful for low-light conditions, but check if it's permitted.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Be mindful that the monastery is an active place of worship, so encourage children to be respectful and quiet, especially inside the temples. Consider visiting during less crowded times to allow children to explore at their own pace. The gift shop offers a chance to find unique souvenirs. If your children are sensitive to crowds or loud noises, be aware that ceremonies can be quite active.
🧘 Solo Travelers
+1 You can spend ample time exploring the grounds, meditating by the prayer wheels, or visiting the library without feeling rushed. Engaging with the monks for personalized prayers can be a unique solo experience, offering a deeper connection to the spiritual practices.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+2 Aim for the golden hours of early morning or late afternoon for the best light to capture the grandeur of the complex. Be mindful of photography restrictions within certain areas, particularly inside the main temple during ceremonies.
Respecting the sacred nature of the site is paramount, so always be discreet and consider asking permission before photographing individuals. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
History and Significance
+1 Despite facing destruction during Stalinist purges, it was reopened in 1944 and has since been redeveloped as a vibrant hub for Buddhist practice and learning. +1The monastery complex houses multiple temples, assembly halls, and a library, serving both monks and lay students. It represents a crucial element of Mongolian cultural heritage and spiritual identity, offering a glimpse into the enduring influence of Buddhism in the region.
Its historical resilience and continued role as a center for religious education underscore its importance not just as a tourist attraction, but as a living testament to Mongolian faith and culture.
The Megjid Janraisig Statue
Visitors often describe an incredible feeling of calmness and protection upon seeing the statue, highlighting its profound spiritual impact.
This colossal figure is not just a religious icon but also a significant cultural landmark, drawing visitors from around the world to witness its magnificence and soak in the sacred atmosphere of the monastery.
Experiencing the Monastery's Atmosphere
+1 The intricate architecture, adorned with traditional Mongolian and Buddhist motifs, adds to the visual splendor of the complex. Beyond the visual and auditory, the monastery provides a profound sense of peace and protection, as noted by many visitors.
The monastery serves as an active place of worship, and observing the daily rituals and the devotion of the monks can be a deeply moving experience. Whether you're seeking spiritual solace, cultural insight, or simply a moment of quiet reflection, Gandantegchinlen Monastery offers a sanctuary from the bustle of Ulaanbaatar, inviting visitors to connect with a rich spiritual heritage.
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