Zayain Gegeen Monastery

History

The monastery was built by the first Khalkha Zaya Pandita, Luvsanperenlei (1642–1715). Its temples, the main Güden Süm and the Summer and Winter Semchin temples, date from the early 1680s, and the town of Tsetserleg grew up around it.

In 1932 the sixth Zaya Pandita, Jambatseren, was killed by the communists. The temple complex survived, and in 1947 it became the Museum of Arkhangai Province.

What to See

• The main Güden temple and the Semchin temples of the early 1680s
• Six exhibition halls with historical, traditional and cultural artefacts from Arkhangai

Visiting

• In Tsetserleg, the centre of Arkhangai aimag, on the northeastern slopes of the Khangai mountains; the town has an airport with flights to Ulaanbaatar.
• Check museum opening days and hours locally before visiting.

Distances and travel times are approximate. Check local conditions, opening hours and permits before you travel.