Located in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia, the Gandan Monastery is an essential hub of Mongolian Buddhism. Founded in the early 19th century, it has played a pivotal role in preserving and advancing Mongolian Buddhist traditions. Despite enduring harsh persecution during the 20th-century communist regime, the monastery has managed to survive and thrive once again.
At the heart of the Gandan Monastery lies its main temple, which houses a remarkable statue of Avlokiteshwara, the Bodhisattva of compassion. This awe-inspiring structure boasts magnificent architecture and intricate artwork. Standing over 26.5 meters tall, it ranks among the tallest indoor statues globally. Adorned with 2,286 precious stones and embellished with gilded gold leaf, the statue is a sight to behold.