Infinite steppes, dramatic scenery, and the hospitality of nomads that the people of Mongolia demonstrate are common reasons of celebrating the country. But not only does the country possess natural marvels, it possesses a rich spiritual and religious past that has influenced the country over the centuries. Since the beginning of Buddhist monasteries to the sacred mountains and the shamanic locations, tourists will find Mongolia as an uplifting experience to religion and history. When you are going to Mongolia to dive into the cultural aspect of the trip, you must visit the religious sites in Mongolia.

This guide is an attempt to point out some of the most amazing temples, monasteries and sacred places that you must add to your itinerary list.

Gandan Monastery — the Spiritual Heart of Ulaanbaatar.

Gandan Monastery (Gandantegchinlen Khiid) is the place in Mongolia that is home to one of the most significant Buddhist centers, located in the capital city of Ulaanbaatar. It is a 19 th century building that has withstood turbulent periods, such as the suppression of religion through communist rule. It is a prosperous worship center in the contemporary world where monks conduct day-to-day worship.

The house contains the giant statue of Migjid Janraisig, which is 26 meters high and which has the meaning of pity, in the monastery. To the visitors, it is a great experience to observe the chanting ceremonies, which gives us a glimpse of the Buddhism of the Mongolians.

Erdene Zuu Monastery -The First Buddhist Monastery in Mongolia.

Erdene Zuu Monastery is located near the old capital of the Mongol Empire Kharkhorin. It is the oldest Buddhist monastery in Mongolia constructed in 1586. The complex features 108 stupas, which results in extraordinary architecture and spirituality.

Many of these temples were burned down during the purges of the 1930s. However, Erdene Zuu has been restored to its former state, and now serves as a museum and a place of worship. The imperial history of Mongolia and religious piety can be experienced as you stroll over the grounds of the temple.

Amarbayasgalant Maize - the Monastery of blissful happiness.

Semi-remote and located in Selenge Province, Amarbayasgalant Monastery is known to have an amazing valley backdrop and an architecture that is well maintained. This monastery is in remembrance of the great Buddhist teacher Zanabazar and is among the very few that survived the communist purges in their original form.

Having more than 30 temples and highly crafted woodwork, Amarbayasgalant provides the visitors with tranquility and an insight into the traditional Buddhist artwork.

Shambhala Stupa - The Tower of Peace.

The Shambhala Stupa in Dornogovi Province, which is connected with meditation and spiritual power, is located in the town of Khamriin Khiid. Pilgrims and even travelers, visit this place to feel its serene ambiance. Local belief states that the location is related to the legendary kingdom of Shambhala which means enlightenment and harmony.

The deserted scenery in the area enhances the mystical feel and thus a good place to visit by spiritual explorers.

Bogd Khan Mountain - the holy mountain of Mongolia.

One of the most sacred natural places in Mongolia is the Bogd Khan Mountain, which is located above Ulaanbaatar. It has long been a worshiping place of both shamans and Buddhists. Another fact that makes the mountain one of the oldest natural reserves legally protected in the world is that it was declared to be sacred as early as the 18th century.

Bogd Khan is not only the place where you will enjoy panoramic views, but also the place where you will be connected with the spiritual traditions of Mongolia, where nature and religion are closely intertwined.

Manzushir Monastery — A mountain retreat away.

Manzushir Monastery is an 18th century building situated in Bogd Khan Mountain National Park. Much of it was destroyed during the 20th century, but there are still remains that are left with rebuilt temples. The area is also enclosed by beautiful forests and granite cliffs and therefore offers a peaceful environment to meditate and explore.

Its location has a mixture of historical ruins and natural beauty, which makes it one of the unique religious sites in Mongolia.

Baldan Bereeven Monastery - One of the Hidden Secrets of the Kentsii Mountains.

Baldan Bereeven Monastery, located in Khentii Province was once a great seat of Buddhism and contained thousands of monks. It was later destroyed in the 1930s purges, but has since been partially restored and continues to be a draw to pilgrims.

The mountainous landscape situated behind the monastery and tranquility of the place makes a memorable vacation to travelers who need history and faith.

The Shamanic Sacred Sites — the native religion of Mongolia.

Shamanism was the spiritual support of Mongolia before the dominance of Buddhism. A number of Mongols today even nowadays continue to follow shamanic rituals and Buddhism. Natural places of worship like the Ovoos (cairns of stone) are located all over the country. Locals frequently appear to offer gifts at these cairns in order to ask gods to ensure that travelers are safe.

For people who are interested in the native culture of Mongolia, visiting these sacred sites will provide one with a closer insight on the spiritual variety of this land.

Why Travel to Mongolia and Learn about its Spiritual Heritage?

Sightseeing in the religious places in Mongolia is not the sole purpose. It is all about knowing the heart of the country- where spirituality and history and nomadic traditions converge. These locations are about the strength of religion and the attachment of the people to nature as well as the presence of the grand monasteries and holy mountains.

To the tourist who wants to experience something authentic, these sites offer points of reflection and immersion into culture that is not just another tourist trail.

Traveling to the Spiritual Destinations of Mongolia.

In selecting your destination, you can opt to visit Mongolia Tour Packages designed to provide you with the visit to monasteries, temples and natural sacred places. A properly designed Mongolia Tour enables you to combine spiritual exploration with adventure, including hiking through the Gobi Desert or living in a traditional ger.

When seeking a full on cultural experience, it is always good to reserve the services of reliable providers so that one can have the best of both the history, religion and nature. You can explore the Buddhist heritage, the shamanic tradition, and nothing less, or just the calmness of the Mongolian scenery. The choice of the options are many in the Mongolia Holiday Packages to fit your traveling style.

Final Thoughts

Mongolia is a land of grand views, but it is the spiritual richness of the land which will make an indelible imprint on your heart. Exploring its monasteries, sacred mountains and shamanistic traditions will provide you with a better insight into the culture of the country of origin.

Traveling in the spiritual life of Mongolia is not only traveling, it is a way of experiencing something new that will help you be linked with centuries of piety and harmony with nature.