Hiking to Manzushir Monastery

Built in 1733 and dedicated to Manjusri as the permanent seat of the reincarnation of the Bodhisattva of Wisdom, Manjusri Monastery (Manzushir Monastery) once housed around 20 temples and approximately 300 practicing monks. However, this historical and cultural site was among the hundreds of religious structures destroyed during the communist purges of the 1930s.

Visitors can explore the monastery ruins, located in an open natural area just outside the city, and visit the reconstructed museum that showcases the monastery in its original form. Nearby, you can also find the ruins of Togchin Temple, built in the mid-18th century, as well as a massive two-ton bronze cauldron.

Manjusri Monastery (sometimes written as Mandshir Khiid—“Khiid” meaning monastery in Mongolian) is an ideal stop for travelers who wish to learn more about the history and culture of Mongolia’s diverse populations, and it is perfect to explore as part of a day trip from Ulaanbaatar.