The Natural History Museum of Mongolia🏛 museum
The museum is world-famous for its massive dinosaur skeletons and fossils from the Gobi Desert.
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Gandantegchinlen Monastery
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The Gandantegchinlen Monastery was established in 1809 in Ulaanbaatar and quickly evolved into the preeminent center of Tibetan Buddhism in Mongolia. Its name translates to 'the Great Place of Complete Joy.' During the religious purges of the 1930s, it was the only monastery in the country permitted to remain open, albeit under strict state supervision as a showcase for foreign visitors. Following the democratic revolution in 1990, the site underwent extensive restoration and currently houses several hundred monks. The architectural centerpiece is the Migjid Janraisig Temple, which contains a massive 26.5-meter statue of the Bodhisattva Avalokiteshvara. This gilded monument, consecrated in 1996, stands as a potent symbol of Mongolian national sovereignty and the enduring spiritual heritage of the nation.
- Location: Mongolia
- Top sights: The Natural History Museum of Mongolia · Gesar Temple · 79r bair
- Nearby: Züünmod (10 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
Gandantegchinlen Monastery is open daily to visitors; the main temple hall housing the giant statue of Avalokiteshvara is accessible. The spacious monastery complex invites a peaceful stroll.
Typical hours
The opening hours are usually from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with variations on weekends and holidays. Mornings are often busy with monks and pilgrims, while midday is quieter.
Photography
Photography of the statue and interior spaces is allowed without flash. Please refrain from using selfie sticks and noisy devices to maintain the reverent atmosphere.
Time needed
Allow about one hour for the main temple and a walk around the grounds. If you wish to visit the smaller surrounding temples and stupas, budget an additional 30 to 45 minutes.
Combine with
The monastery is located in central Ulaanbaatar, making it easy to combine with Bogd Khan Palace and Choijin Lama Temple. A visit to the nearby Winter Palace Museum rounds off the cultural day.
Getting there
The monastery is easily reached by taxi or public transport; many bus lines stop right at the entrance. It is about a 15-minute walk from Sükhbaatar Square.
Insider tip
Visit the monastery during a morning ceremony (around 8:30 AM) to hear the monks chanting. Entry to the temple with the giant statue requires a fee, but the grounds are free to explore.
Geography
Facts
- The monastery was founded in 1809 by order of the fifth Bogd Gegeen.
- The original Avalokiteshvara statue was dismantled by Soviets in 1938.
- The current 26.5-meter statue is made of copper and covered in gold leaf.
- The statue contains 27 tons of medicinal herbs and 2 million mantras.
- The complex houses the Zanabazar Buddhist University, established in 1970.
- It preserves a vast collection of ancient religious texts and scriptures.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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Sights in the town Gandantegchinlen Monastery (10)
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Frequently asked questions
What is the name of the monastery?
Gandantegtschinlen, the most important monastery in Ulaanbaatar.
What is the main attraction?
The huge golden Buddha statue inside.
When is the best time to visit?
In the morning to experience the monks' prayers.
Is there an entrance fee?
Yes, a ticket is required for the main building.
How long should you stay?
Allow about 1 to 1.5 hours.
Gandantegchinlen Monastery: where is it located?
Gandantegchinlen Monastery is located in Mongolia.
Gandantegchinlen Monastery: what is there to see?
Highlights include The Natural History Museum of Mongolia, Gesar Temple, 79r bair.
Gandantegchinlen Monastery: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Gandantegchinlen Monastery: why is it worth visiting?
The Gandantegchinlen Monastery was established in 1809 in Ulaanbaatar and quickly evolved into the preeminent center of Tibetan Buddhism in Mongolia.
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