Gandan Monastery is a worthwhile stop, an excellent insight into Buddhism within Mongolia. Please beaware of pickpockets, an unpleasant side of the visit, but common sense on this issue will alate this concern. More

Many tourists, charged fee. But no atmosphere, and very few monks. Sort of have to go, but after having been, you wonder why. More like an exhibition than a monetry, with a USD$10 for camera usage!! More

Visit on the first day of the lunar month if possible - special ceremonies are open to the public and give real insight into the religion that 50% of Mongolians follow. Make sure you visit all the various monastery areas, as the difference in styles of the buildings is amazing. The giant golden buddha is breathtaking in its scale and... More

This place is truly beautiful, however, it has unfortunately been ruined somewhat by tourism and in particular the pigeons! You are actively encouraged to feed the pigeons, therefore there are millions of them. In order to try and protect some of the beautiful temples they have covered them in chicken wire and plastic/glass panels, which just ruins the place. If... More

As far as religious monuments go, Gandan is nothing special. Comparing it to Japanese, Chinese or Korean monuments may not be fair, but if you are looking for inspiring architecture in Ulaanbaatar you won't find it. Mongolia is the place to come for nature lovers. More

Must see the beautiful buddha in the main temple! It costs about 5 dollars to get in the monastery. If you want to take photos it costs a bit more (around 3 dollars). You can buy seeds to feed the birds there. This is a place of worship, so you must dress accordingly....long pants, no tank tops. More

It's not a very big place? So you can probably spend 1-2 hours here. Watch out for the lady trying to hand you bird seeds at the entrance (if you don't intend to pay for it that is - not that its expensive or anything) - there are several buildings in the monastery, and lots of pigeons! Peaceful place for... More

Well worth the time to visit. Has the largest Budda statue I've ever seen. More

Bustling, active monastery Mongolian style. Go in the morning to see and hear the monks chanting. Don't expect piety! More