Tövkhön Monastery is located on a small rocky plateau surrounded by dense forests, about 40 km northwest of Khujirt soum and 50 km north of Bat-Ulziit soum, straddling the border of Övörkhangai and Arkhangai provinces. Perched atop a mountain, roughly 5 km uphill from the base, it offers breathtaking panoramic views of central Mongolia’s rugged landscape.
Location
40 km northwest of Khujirt soum and 50 km north of Bat-Ulziit soum.
Opened
1648
Built without Nails
The monastery was constructed using traditional Mongolian carpentry, entirely without nails.
Sacred Wells
Zanabazar used two wells near the monastery, Mouth Water and Wash Water for drinking tea and bathing.
Founded in 1648, Tövkhön Monastery harmoniously blends spirituality and nature. Nestled among pine and larch forests at the mountain’s summit, it feels secluded and peaceful — ideal for meditation and reflection. The wooden structures are built on stone foundations, surrounded by sacred caves, wells, and rocky cliffs that hold deep spiritual significance.
This sacred monastery is one of Mongolia’s most revered religious sites, famous as the hermitage of Zanabazar, the First Bogd and spiritual leader of Mongolia. It is here that Zanabazar created many of his greatest works — including the invention of the Soyombo script in 1686, which later became a symbol of Mongolian identity and even appears on the national flag.
The area is also rich in wildlife and alpine flora, offering visitors a serene natural escape with breathtaking views across Mongolia’s heartland.
Tövkhön Monastery was established in 1648 by Zanabazar, when he was only 14 years old. It became his personal retreat for meditation and artistic creation. The site suffered destruction during wars between the Khalkha and Oirats but was later restored in 1773.
A local legend tells of Zanabazar’s divine connection with the land — it’s said that the mountain’s spirits guided him to this exact spot, where the “energy of creation” was strongest. The sacred caves and rock imprints are believed to carry his spiritual power even today.
To explore one of Mongolia’s most spiritually powerful and peaceful sites.
To see where the Soyombo script — a symbol of Mongolian identity — was created.
To experience unique natural formations and panoramic mountain views.
To learn about Zanabazar’s artistic and spiritual legacy in a serene setting.
You can travel by car from Kharkhorin (Karakorum) or Khujirt, then hike the final 5 km uphill trail to reach the monastery.
Yes, a small fee is usually required for maintenance and preservation, payable in cash.
Plan about 3–4 hours, including hiking, exploring the monastery, and visiting nearby sacred caves and wells.
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