Gandan Monastery

Gandan Monastery

Built in 1840, it is the most important monastery in Mongolia. It is easily seen north west of the city center. In the past it was one of the main Buddhist centers in Asia having two dozens of chapels and famous for its library collection of religious documents and the typography.

The monastery was severely damaged during the repression of 30s and only few building remained among them a chapel for 20 meters high statue of Megzhid Janraisig god erected in 1911 as a symbol commemorating the Mongolia's independence. During the WW II the statue was taken to Russia to be used as scrap metal for shells. In 1990 the statue was rebuilt with nation wide donations.

Have a $ 5.00 bill ready if you would like to take picture of this restored statue. The Gandan Monastery is the central place for major religious ceremonies and festivities, including Tsam Dance, a theatralised performance. The monastery has presently about 150 monks and a Buddhist School.