Gandan Monastery, Ulaanbaatar (must see)

The Gandantegchinlen Monastery, commonly known as Gandan, is a significant Tibetan Buddhist monastery located in the heart of Ulaanbaatar. Established in 1835 by the Fifth Jebtsundamba, who was Mongolia’s highest reincarnated lama at the time, Gandan translates to "Great Place of Complete Joy." Since the end of communist rule in 1990, the monastery has undergone extensive restoration and revitalization, reestablishing itself as a central hub of Buddhist learning and practice in Mongolia.

The monastery is renowned for its impressive 26.5-meter-high statue of Migjid Janraisig, also known as Avalokitesvara, a bodhisattva embodying compassion. This monumental figure, made from copper sourced from Erdenet and adorned with numerous precious stones, weighs over 20 tons. The statue stands as a symbol of spiritual guidance, representing the path to Truth and enlightenment. The statue's grandeur and the monastery's serene atmosphere make it a focal point of worship and veneration.

The Gandan Monastery complex includes Zanabazar Buddhist University, which serves as a center for advanced studies in Buddhist philosophy, as well as three temples dedicated to the veneration of Avalokiteshvara. It also hosts three colleges focused on Buddhist philosophy, a College of Medicine and Astrology, and two Tantric Colleges. The monastery is a vibrant center of activity, attracting locals from the countryside who visit in traditional costumes to donate, pray, and participate in daily rituals.

Visiting Gandan Monastery offers a peaceful retreat from the bustling city life of Ulaanbaatar. Despite its lack of heating, the monastery remains a tranquil sanctuary year-round. The lively morning services, complete with drumming, chanting, and cymbals, provide a deeply immersive spiritual experience, while the giant Buddha and its surrounding environment create a serene and atmospheric setting. Just a short walk from Sükhbaatar Square, Gandan is a must-visit for anyone seeking to connect with Mongolia’s rich Buddhist heritage and find solace amidst the city’s hustle and bustle.