Gandantegchinlen Monastery: A Spiritual Haven in Ulaanbaatar
Explore the spiritual heart of Mongolia at Gandantegchinlen Monastery, a breathtaking Buddhist temple in Ulaanbaatar.
Gandantegchinlen Monastery, also known as Gandan, is a remarkable spiritual landmark located in the heart of Ulaanbaatar. This monastery is not just a tourist attraction; it is a vibrant center of Buddhism in Mongolia and a place where you can immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of the country. As you walk through the temple grounds, you'll encounter stunning architecture, including the impressive Migjid Janraisig Temple, which houses a 26.5-meter tall statue of Avalokiteshvara, the Bodhisattva of compassion. The intricate details of the temple's design and the vibrant colors of the murals are visually captivating and offer a glimpse into the spiritual life of Mongolian Buddhists. Visiting Gandantegchinlen Monastery is an opportunity to witness the daily rituals of the monks as they engage in prayer and meditation. The serene atmosphere invites reflection, making it a perfect escape from the bustling city. The monastery is also home to a community of monks and serves as a hub for spiritual learning and practice. Tourists are encouraged to respect the sacredness of the space, and it's advisable to dress modestly while exploring the grounds. Be sure to take your time to soak in the tranquil surroundings and perhaps even participate in a guided tour to learn more about the history and significance of this important cultural site. The monastery is open daily, allowing visitors to experience its beauty and spirituality at their convenience.
Local tips
- Visit during the morning to witness the monks' prayers and enjoy a quieter experience.
- Dress modestly; covering shoulders and knees is recommended to show respect.
- Consider joining a guided tour for deeper insights into the monastery's history and significance.
- Don't miss the opportunity to photograph the stunning Migjid Janraisig Temple.
- Explore the surrounding gardens for a peaceful retreat away from the city’s hustle.
A brief summary to Gandantegchinlen Monastery
- Ulaanbaatar, BGD - 16 khoroo, Ulaanbaatar, 16040, MN
- +97611360354
- Monday 9 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
- Thursday 9 am-5 pm
- Friday 9 am-5 pm
- Saturday 9 am-5 pm
- Sunday 9 am-5 pm
Getting There
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Bus
From any location in Bayanzurkh District, head to the nearest bus stop. Look for bus number 12 or 22, which both have routes that stop near Gandantegchinlen Monastery. The fare is approximately 500 MNT (Mongolian Tugrik). Ride the bus until you reach the stop labeled 'Gandantegchinlen Monastery'.
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Walking
If you are close enough to the monastery, you can walk there. From the bus stop, exit and follow the signs leading towards the monastery. It is about a 10-minute walk, so keep an eye out for local landmarks to guide you, such as the large statue of Avalokiteshvara nearby.
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Taxi
If you prefer a more direct route, you can hail a taxi. Taxis are widely available in Bayanzurkh District. Ensure to tell the driver 'Gandantegchinlen Monastery' clearly. The fare should be around 1500-3000 MNT depending on your starting point.
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Ride-Hailing Services
You can also use ride-hailing apps like Uber or Bolt if you have access to a local SIM card and mobile data. Simply input 'Gandantegchinlen Monastery' as your destination. The fare will vary based on demand but is generally similar to regular taxis.
Attractions Nearby to Gandantegchinlen Monastery
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Megjid Janraisig Datsan
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Gandantegchinlen
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GANDANTEGCHENLING
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Centre of Shaman Eternal Heavenly Sophistication
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The Natural History Museum of Mongolia
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Red Ger Gallery
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Dream Mongolia Tour
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The Fine Arts Zanabazar Museum
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Гурван унага баримал
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Монгол Оллэ 몽골올레 안내소 mongol olle information center
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Их Хайрхан
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Fountain park
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Happy City statue
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Chingunjav Statue
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Chinggis Khaan National Museum
Landmarks nearby to Gandantegchinlen Monastery
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Geser Sum Monastery
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windhorse tours and hostel
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Mongolian Ways
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Өвөө Эмээгийн Баримал
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Statue Dugui Tsagaan
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Mare with Colt Statue
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Boy with Yak Statue
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Steppe Off-Road Mongolia LLC
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Goyo Travel Mongolia
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Mongolian Gobi Attraction Tours
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DMD Mongolie LLC (Discover Mongolia & Development)
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Horseback Adventure
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Adventure Rider Mongolia
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Statue to Singer of Democracy Tsogtsaikhan S
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View Mongolia