Buddhism in Mongolia
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Buddhism is the largest religion in Mongolia practiced by 51.7% of Mongolia's population, according to the 2020 Mongolia census. Buddhism in Mongolia derives much of its recent characteristics from Tibetan Buddhism of the Gelug and Kagyu lineages, but is distinct and presents its own unique characteristics.
Buddha statue in the Erdene Zuu Monastery, Karakorum
Gilded stupa and a prajnaparamita, Mongolian from the 18th century CE
Statuette of Zanabazar, one of the most influential tulkus of Mongolia
Thangka showing a mountain deity carrying a sword
Gelug
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The Gelug is the newest of the four major schools of Tibetan Buddhism. It was founded by Je Tsongkhapa (1357–1419), a Tibetan philosopher, tantric yogi and lama and further expanded and developed by his disciples.
The 14th Dalai Lama (center), the most influential figure of the contemporary Gelug tradition, at the 2003 Kalachakra ceremony, Bodhgaya (India).
Khedrup Gelek Pelzang, 1st Panchen Lama (1385–1438 CE), the main leader of the Gelug school after Tsongkhapa's death.
Gendun Drup, founder of Tashilhunpo Monastery, and the First Dalai Lama