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Published 10:14 IST, December 17th 2023

Away from daily hustle and bustle, these are a few most remote monasteries of the world

From India's Key monastery to China's hanging monastery, a list at a few inaccessible and remote monasteries of the world.

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Monasteries
Remote monasteries of the world | Image: Unsplash

Known for their quiet solitude, monasteries are often set in secluded spots, far away from the hustle and bustle of cities and towns. Looking for harmony and peace, monks founded monasteries in remote regions to promote spiritual introspection. Not only hard to locate but many of the monasteries are very hard to travel to, demanding long hikes. 

Often, monasteries boast of beautiful architecture and house manuscripts and religious scriptures. Here is a list of the world's most remote monasteries that are situated in some of the most breathtaking landscapes.

Key monastery 

Also known as Key Gompa, this is set in the Spiti Valley of India and dates back to the 11th century. This Tibetan Buddhist monastery is over 13,600 feet above sea level. The interior includes wall hangings, murals, dark hallways. It is a training center for over 200 monks.

Image: Unsplash 

Tatev monastery 

Located on the edge of a plateau in the southeast of Armenia, Tatev monastery dates back to the 9th century. This Armenian apostolic monastery once ruled over much of the surrounding countryside. It was the home to a university in the 14th and 15th centuries and it includes three churches: the Church of Saints Paul and Peter, Saint Gregory the Illuminator’s Church, and the Holy Mother of God Church. The important historical, cultural, and religious site can be reached by the Wings of Tatev cable-car.

Mount Athos 

Mount Athos is not the home to 1 but 20 monasteries in total. It is one of the most important centers of Eastern Orthodox monasticism. Located in Northeast Greece, this is often referred to as the ‘Holy Mountain’. The history of this place dates back to the Byzantine times, since when the monks have been living here. The Athonite monasteries house some of the most significant artifacts. 

Tiger’s nest 

About 900 meters above Paro Valley, the Tiger’s Nest happens to be Bhutan‘s most sacred sites. It was founded in 1692 and is made of four temples. The monastery is home to countless meditation caves, statues, and paintings. You can reach this complex only by climbing up stone steps. You can expect some spectacular views. 

Image: Unsplash

Hanging monastery 

About 30 metres above ground, the Hanging Monastery appears to be miraculously suspended in midair. It is situated in Shanxi Province. This was built more than 1,500 years ago, and houses over 40 halls and pavilions containing fine artworks and sculptures.

Updated 10:14 IST, December 17th 2023