Located in the picturesque Orkhon Valley, the Tuvkhun Monastery is a hidden gem in Mongolia. It's a Buddhist monastery that has been standing for centuries, making it one of the oldest in the country. Located just 40 kilometers northwest of Hujirt Sum, on the border of Uvurkhangai and Arkhangai provinces, the monastery was built by the high saint Zanabazar in 1651.
The Tuvkhun Monastery has a fascinating history. It was destroyed during the Khalkh-Oirad rebellion of 1688 but later rebuilt in 1773. Unfortunately, the monastery's regular activities were interrupted in 1939 due to the Great Repression. In 1992, the Tuvkhun Monastery was taken under state protection and the restoration work was completed in 1997.
The building of the Tuvkhun Monastery is unique in that it is a prefabricated building made by Mongolian carpentry using various types of bricks. Visitors can enjoy the tranquil beauty of the monastery and its surroundings and even learn about the Soyombo alphabet invented by Zanabazar while sitting in the meditation temple.
Despite being one of the oldest Buddhist monasteries in Mongolia, the Tuvkhun Monastery still maintains its simple and humble charm, making it a must-see destination for those who seek a glimpse into the country's rich cultural and religious heritage.
