Dashchoilon Monastery

Overview

Dashchoilon Monastery is an active Buddhist monastery in western Ulaanbaatar, less touristy than Gandan but equally atmospheric. Monks gather daily for chanting ceremonies in the intimate prayer halls, offering visitors a more authentic glimpse of Mongolian Buddhist practice.

Highlights

• Morning prayers: The daily chanting ceremony from 9 am is open to respectful observers.
• Peaceful grounds: A quiet compound with prayer wheels, stupas, and traditional temple architecture.
• Monk community: Home to approximately 100 monks who live and study on the grounds.

History

Originally founded in the 19th century, Dashchoilon was destroyed during the Stalinist purges of the 1930s. It was refounded after the democratic revolution of 1990 and has since grown into one of Ulaanbaatar's most active monasteries.

Visitor Tips

• Tip 1: Arrive before 10 am to observe the chanting ceremony — sit quietly along the walls.
• Tip 2: This is a working monastery, not a museum — dress modestly and maintain silence.
• Duration: 20–30 minutes.