Gandantegchinlen Monastery, often called Gandan, is one of the best-known places to see Buddhism in practice in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia's capital. The facts available describe it as the country's most important Buddhist monastery, and it remains an active religious site rather than a museum piece.
What to see
The monastery's main draw is its large Avalokitesvara statue, which stands about 26 metres tall. Avalokitesvara is the bodhisattva associated with compassion, and the figure's scale makes it visible from across the complex. Visitors can also see the monastery's impressive architecture, which gives a sense of how Mongolian Buddhism is expressed in its buildings and courtyards.
What kind of visit it makes
- A window onto Mongolian Buddhism, with the monastery in active use by monks and worshippers
- A quieter, more reflective stop than many city sights, suited to unhurried looking
- A chance to observe religious life as it is lived, rather than only as a historical display
Because it is a working monastery, it is worth keeping in mind that people may be praying or attending ceremonies. Visitors tend to move slowly, speak softly and dress modestly, and it is sensible to follow the lead of those around you.
Around the monastery
Gandan sits in Ulaanbaatar, so it is easy to combine with other parts of the city. The monastery makes a natural part of a day spent exploring the capital's religious, cultural and everyday life, and it offers a useful contrast with the city's modern streets just beyond its walls.