Mongolia is a country with a rich spiritual heritage and diverse religious practices. From Tibetan Buddhism and ancient Shamanism to Islam and Christianity, these beliefs shape Mongolian culture, festivals, and everyday life.

• Tibetan Buddhism – dominant faith practiced nationwide

• Mongolian Shamanism (Tengrism) – indigenous spiritual traditions

• Islam – mainly practiced by ethnic Kazakhs in western Mongolia

• Non-religious/Atheist – partly due to the socialist period

• Christianity – small but growing, especially in urban areas

Tibetan Buddhism

The Gelugpa school of Tibetan Buddhism has influenced Mongolia since the 16th century. Though suppressed during the socialist era (1924–1990). Since 1990, there has been a remarkable revival, with monasteries reopening, religious practices becoming open again, and Buddhism reclaiming its central role in Mongolian cultural identity.

Mongolian Shamanism (Tengrism)

Mongolian Shamanism predates Buddhism, focusing on:

• Reverence for Tenger (Eternal Blue Sky) and Etügen (Mother Earth)

• Spirits in mountains, rivers, animals, and trees

• Rituals led by shamans (boo and udgans)

Shamanism survived decades of suppression and has seen resurgence since 1990, with open practice and spiritual ceremonies across the country.

Other Religions

• Islam

Ethnic Kazakhs in Bayan-Ölgii province are the main Islamic community. Features include: Mosques and cultural centers, and Islamic festivals and traditions, like the Golden Eagle Festival

• Christianity

Christianity remains a small but growing faith, concentrated in Ulaanbaatar and major cities, with both Mongolian and expatriate congregations.

Why Mongolia’s Religious Diversity Matters

Mongolia’s religious diversity reflects its history and nomadic culture. Understanding these spiritual traditions provides deeper insight into Mongolian festivals, rituals, and everyday life. Travelers can witness Buddhist monasteries, shamanic ceremonies, and Kazakh Islamic culture, all within one country.