10 Things to Do in Gandantegchinlen Monastery (Gandan Monastery) Ulaanbaatar Mongolia
Situated in the heart of Ulaanbaatar, the Gandantegchinlen Monastery, commonly known as the Gandan Monastery, is the largest and most important monastery in Mongolia. Established in 1835, the monastery is home to a number of important spiritual artifacts and provides visitors with a unique insight into the country’s Buddhist heritage. Here are 10 things to do in the Gandan Monastery.
1. Explore the Main Temple
The main temple of the Gandan Monastery is the Tsogchin Dugan, which is the largest of the monastery’s buildings. The temple is home to numerous statues, including a large statue of the Maitreya Buddha, which is made from copper and gilded with gold. The temple is also home to several ancient manuscripts and other religious artifacts, including two ancient books written in Sanskrit.
2. Visit the Statue of Avalokiteshvara
The Gandan Monastery is also home to a large statue of Avalokiteshvara, which is one of the most important figures in Buddhism. The statue is believed to be the largest of its kind in the world and is made from copper and gilded with gold. The statue is said to have been created in the late 19th century and is believed to have been commissioned by the 13th Dalai Lama.
3. Take a Tour of the Monastery
The Gandan Monastery offers guided tours of its grounds, which provide visitors with an in-depth look at the history and culture of the monastery. The tour includes a visit to the main temple, the statue of Avalokiteshvara, and other important sites in the monastery.
4. Attend a Prayer Service
The Gandan Monastery holds regular prayer services, which are open to the public. During the services, visitors can observe the monks chanting and meditating, and they can also take part in the prayers.
5. Visit the Museum
The Gandan Monastery also houses a museum, which contains a number of artifacts related to Buddhism and the history of the monastery. The museum also contains a number of ancient manuscripts and books, which provide visitors with an insight into the history of Buddhism in Mongolia.
6. Attend a Lecture
The Gandan Monastery also holds regular lectures on Buddhism and the history of the monastery. The lectures are open to the public and provide visitors with an opportunity to learn more about the religion and the history of the monastery.
7. Visit the Library
The Gandan Monastery also houses a library, which contains a number of ancient manuscripts, books, and other religious artifacts. The library is open to the public and provides visitors with an opportunity to learn more about the history and culture of the monastery.
8. Take a Hike
The Gandan Monastery is situated in the middle of a large park, which provides visitors with the opportunity to take a hike through the surrounding countryside. The park is home to a number of wildlife species, including deer, foxes, and wild boar.
9. Visit the Shops
The Gandan Monastery is home to a number of shops, which sell a variety of items related to Buddhism and the history of the monastery. The shops sell books, statues, and other religious artifacts, as well as souvenirs and other items.
10. Enjoy the Views
The Gandan Monastery is situated in a beautiful location, and visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. The monastery is also home to a number of gardens, which provide visitors with the opportunity to relax and enjoy the beauty of the area.