Inside Gandantegchinlen Monastery: Mongolia’s Center Of Buddhism

Say a little prayer before the strikingly gilded statue of Avalokitesvara. 

Founded in 1908, Gandantegchinlen Monastery is Mongolia’s center of Buddhism and home to hundreds of monks. The name translates to “Complete Rejoicing” from Tibetan. Lining the walls are rows of the Buddha of Longevity, or Ayush, along with spinning prayer wheels that are more commonly seen in Tibetan Buddhist temples.

Worshippers enter the ivory Migjid Janraisig Süm, then devoutly bow and chant prayers before an incredible 26-meter statue of Avalokitesvara, or Guanyin in Mandarin – often referred to as the Goddess of Mercy or Compassion. 

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Wendy Hung (@wendyhung915)

The magnificent statue is made of gilded bronze, copper and gold that came from donations from Nepal and Japan. Avalokitesvara is adorned with over 2,000 precious stones, draped in more than 100 kilograms of silk, carrying 27 tonnes of medicinal herbs, 334 sutras and 2 millions mantras.

Nearby the popular landmark are colleges of Buddhist philosophy, cultivating a significant cultural heritage that continues to flourish in Mongolia.