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Choijin Lama Temple
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historical-site
The Choijin Lama Temple in Ulaanbaatar, constructed between 1904 and 1908, is one of the most meticulously preserved examples of Manchu-era religious architecture in Mongolia. It was built specifically for Luvsan Haidav, the State Oracle and younger brother of the eighth Bogd Khan. The complex comprises five temples and five monumental gates, featuring intricate wood carvings and bustling traditional paintings. Miraculously spared from destruction during the anti-religious purges of the 1930s, it was designated as a museum of religious history in 1942. Today, it showcases an extraordinary collection of Buddhist art, including rare thangka paintings, bronze sculptures, and elaborate masks used in ritual Cham dances. The main temple is particularly noteworthy for its gilded statue of Shakyamuni Buddha and the preserved remains of Luvsan Haidav. Surrounded by modern high-rises, the temple remains a serene sanctuary of Mongolian cultural heritage.
- Location: Mongolia
- Top sights: Museum of Victims of Political Persecution · State Puppet Theater · Choijin Lama Temple Museum
- Nearby: Züünmod (8 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | -21 | -18 | -9 | 1 | 7 | 15 | 17 | 15 | 8 | -1 | -11 | -19 |
| Rain mm | 3 | 4 | 6 | 10 | 29 | 48 | 68 | 61 | 25 | 11 | 8 | 4 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The Choijin Lama Temple is open as a museum, with access to the interior halls and the surrounding temple courtyards. The architectural complex consists of multiple buildings, each reflecting a different historical period.
Typical hours
The temple typically opens daily from around 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, with seasonal variations possible. On Mongolian public holidays, opening hours may differ, so it is wise to check in advance.
Photography
Photography without flash is allowed in most areas, but often prohibited in the central prayer halls. Please respect the signs and avoid using tripods to preserve the historic structures.
Time needed
Allow about one and a half hours for a thorough tour of the entire complex. If you wish to study the architectural details and artworks, the visit may take longer.
Combine with
The temple is located in central Ulaanbaatar, just a short walk from Sükhbaatar Square. Combine the visit with the National Museum or the Bogd Khan Palace for a varied cultural day.
Getting there
The temple is easily reached by taxi or bus, with many city buses stopping nearby. A walk from the city center takes no more than 10 to 15 minutes.
Insider tip
Visit the temple early in the morning to avoid the rush of tour groups. Take your time to study the richly detailed paintings and sculptures - they reveal much about Buddhist iconography.
Geography
Facts
- The temple complex was constructed between 1904 and 1908.
- It was built for Luvsan Haidav, the State Oracle of Mongolia.
- The site was converted into a museum in 1942, saving it from demolition.
- The main temple holds the mummified remains of the Choijin Lama.
- The museum displays over 5,000 items of Buddhist art and ritual objects.
- It is one of the few historical structures in Ulaanbaatar that survived the 1930s.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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Sights in the town Choijin Lama Temple (4)
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Frequently asked questions
What is the Choijin Lama Temple?
A former monastery, now a museum of religious art.
Where is the museum?
Right in the center of Ulaanbaatar.
What is particularly worth seeing?
The detailed masks and religious artifacts.
How long does the tour take?
About 1 hour is sufficient.
Are there fixed opening hours?
Yes, usually daily from 10 am to 6 pm.
Choijin Lama Temple: where is it located?
Choijin Lama Temple is located in Mongolia.
Choijin Lama Temple: what is there to see?
Highlights include Museum of Victims of Political Persecution, State Puppet Theater, Choijin Lama Temple Museum.
Choijin Lama Temple: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Choijin Lama Temple: why is it worth visiting?
The Choijin Lama Temple in Ulaanbaatar, constructed between 1904 and 1908, is one of the most meticulously preserved examples of Manchu-era religious architecture in Mongolia.
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