Shankh Monastery, Tibetan Buddhist monastery in Övörhangay Province, Mongolia
Shankh Monastery is a Tibetan Buddhist monastery in Övörhangay Province located at approximately 1,200 meters (3,937 feet) elevation. The complex contains multiple buildings with traditional Tibetan architectural features, including temples and residential structures spread across the grounds.
The monastery was founded in 1647 by Zanabazar, the first Jebtsundamba Khutuktu, and once housed over 1,500 monks. It faced severe destruction during the communist repression period of 1937.
The main temple displays seven Kalachakra Mandalas with a total of 722 deities, forming one of Mongolia's most important Buddhist art collections. These sacred depictions continue to draw monks and pilgrims who come to meditate and study.
The monastery sits approximately 25 kilometers southeast of Karakorum and is best reached by vehicle via unpaved roads across the Mongolian steppe. Visitors should prepare for rough road conditions and allow extra time for the journey.
The monastery once housed the black military banner of Genghis Khan, which survived destruction thanks to a novice named Gombo who protected it during the turmoil. This remarkable artifact remains a rare testament to Mongol military heritage.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
