Tuvkhun Monastery: The Stunning Perched Tibetan Buddhist Temple of the Okhron Valley

Tuvkhun Monastery, located in the Mongolian province of Ovorkhangai, is a significant religious and cultural site that is renowned for its stunning natural setting and rich history. We visited the monastery as part of our Gobi trip during our two-month trip in Mongolia.

What to Know about Tuvkhun Monastery

Tuvkhun Monastery – also sometimes written as Tövkhön Monastery – was founded in the 17th century and was one of the most important Buddhist centers in Mongolia until the communist regime of the 20th century. The monastery was completely destroyed during the purges, but was later restored and re-established as a place of worship.

Tuvkhun Monastery is one of the few remaining Buddhist monasteries in Mongolia and is considered an important religious site for the country’s Buddhist community. It is also considered a spiritual retreat for Buddhist practitioners, and visitors can observe the daily routines and rituals of the resident monk.

Tuvkhun Monastery is a unique and beautiful Buddhist temple located in the mountains of Mongolia. This serene and peaceful place is a must-visit for anyone traveling to Mongolia who is interested in the country’s rich cultural heritage and spirituality.

Inside the Tuvkhun Monastery

Tuvkhun Monastery is located in the heart of the stunning Mongolian countryside, surrounded by lush forests and rolling hills. The monastery is perched on the side of a mountain, offering visitors breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

Tuvkhun Monastery on the Shireet Ulaan Uul mountain

Tuvkhun Monastery Prayer Wheels

Tuvkhun Monastery is known for its beautiful architecture, which reflects the traditional style of Mongolian Buddhist monasteries. Visitors can see the intricate carvings and paintings that adorn the walls of the temple, as well as the colorful frescoes that depict scenes from Buddhist mythology.

Colorful Prayer Flags

When you arrive at Tuvkhun Monastery, you will first see the main temple building, which is a beautiful and ornate structure that is adorned with intricate carvings and paintings. Inside the temple, you will find several Buddhist artifacts and paintings, as well as a large statue of the Buddha.

After exploring the main temple, you can take a walk around the monastery grounds, which are surrounded by beautiful gardens and forests. There are several hiking trails in the area that offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape, and they are a great way to experience the natural beauty of the Khentii Mountains.

In addition to visiting the temple and exploring the grounds, you can also take a guided tour of the nearby nomadic communities. These communities are a great way to experience the traditional Mongolian way of life, and they offer a fascinating glimpse into the country’s rich cultural heritage.

Ancient Stupa at the Tuvkhun Monastery

Offerings at the Tuvkhun Monastery

Tuvkhun Monastery is an important cultural and historical site in Mongolia, reflecting the country’s rich spiritual heritage and its long history of Buddhism. Visitors can learn about the role that Buddhism has played in Mongolian society and culture, as well as its impact on the development of the country.

The surrounding landscape of Tuvkhun Monastery offers a wealth of trekking and hiking opportunities, with scenic trails winding through the lush forests and rolling hills. Visitors can go on guided treks and explore the stunning natural beauty of the area.

Incredible views around the Shireet Ulaan Uul mountain

Thick forest around the Shireet Ulaan Uul mountain

Be mindful of the local customs and traditions when visiting Tuvkhun Monastery, especially when it comes to religious sites. Dress appropriately, and be respectful of the local environment, taking care not to damage the site or the surrounding landscape.

How to Visit Tuvkhun Monastery

Getting There: Tuvkhun Monastery is located in the Khentii Mountains, about 90 km from Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia’s capital city. To get there, you can either rent a car or take a tour from Ulaanbaatar. If you choose to rent a car, it is recommended to have a 4WD vehicle as the road to the monastery is steep and rocky. If you choose to take a tour, there are many reputable tour companies in Ulaanbaatar that offer day trips to Tuvkhun Monastery.

Accommodation: There are several options for accommodation near Tuvkhun Monastery. You can stay at a nearby ger camp, which is a traditional Mongolian dwelling made of felt and canvas. Ger camps offer a unique and authentic experience, and they are a great way to immerse yourself in Mongolian culture. Alternatively, you can also stay in a hotel or guesthouse in Ulaanbaatar and visit Tuvkhun Monastery as a day trip.

When to Visit: The best time to visit Tuvkhun Monastery is from June to September, when the weather is warm and sunny. During this time, the roads are also in good condition, and it is easier to access the temple. If you visit during the winter months, the roads may be closed due to snow, and the weather can be very cold and harsh.

What to Bring: When visiting Tuvkhun Monastery, it is important to bring warm clothing, as the weather can be chilly, even during the summer months. You should also bring comfortable walking shoes, as you will be doing a lot of walking and hiking. Additionally, it is a good idea to bring a camera, as the scenery and cultural heritage of the area are truly breathtaking.

Tuvkhun Monastery is a must-visit for anyone traveling to Mongolia who is interested in the country’s rich cultural heritage and spirituality. With its stunning mountain setting and peaceful atmosphere, it is a serene and peaceful place to visit, and it offers a unique and memorable experience

In conclusion, Tuvkhun Monastery is a unique and rewarding destination for travelers who are interested in exploring the rich cultural and religious heritage of Mongolia. With its stunning natural setting, rich history, and significant religious and cultural significance, Tuvkhun Monastery is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Mongolia.

If you are looking for more trip ideas in Mongolia check out our Mongolia travel blog posts. For other Asia travels, see some of the destinations we visited and wrote about:

Turkmenistan | India | Papua New Guinea | Sri Lanka | Vietnam

Stay tuned for more adventures
from our travel around the world!

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