Understand

The Iven Valley Monastery, one of the largest and most beautiful monasteries in Mongolia, has a fascinating history. Despite the challenges it faced during the purges in the 1930s, this monastery managed to survive and flourish. Nestled near the Selenge river, it offers a serene and picturesque location. To reach this hidden gem, travelers can take a scenic route off the main paved road that connects Erdenet and Darkhan. Upon arrival, visitors will be greeted by a vibrant community of around 30 dedicated monks who call this monastery their home.

Get in

The monastery is located in a remote and rural area, making it an off-the-beaten-track destination. There is no public transport available to reach the monastery directly, but there are ways to get there. To access the monastery from Erdenet or Darkhan, you can hire a driver. From Erdenet, you can take the paved road towards Darkhan and then turn north at a sign after approximately 81 kilometers. Follow the track for the remaining 33 kilometers. If you are coming from Ulaanbaatar, you can take a bus from the "Dragon Bus Centre" to Darkhan, which takes around 4 hours and costs 10,000 MNT. From Darkhan, you can hire a local taxi driver to reach the monastery. The journey typically takes 2 to 2 and a half hours and depends on the weather conditions and the driver's knowledge of the area. Once you arrive at the monastery, you can explore the stunning statues on the hills and the surrounding area. The monastery, along with its picturesque surroundings, can be easily explored in a 3-hour visit. To summarize, reaching the monastery may require some planning and hiring a driver, but the tranquil and scenic experience it offers is well worth the effort.

Map & Climate

Popular Foods

The first most popular food in Mongolia is Buuz, which are delicious dumplings filled with meat, typically mutton or beef, and seasoned with salt, pepper, and onions. They can be steamed or boiled and often served with sour cream or chili sauce.

The second most popular food in Mongolia is Tsuivan, a stir-fried noodle dish that combines wheat or egg noodles with an assortment of vegetables like cabbage, carrots, and bell peppers, along with a choice of meat such as beef, chicken, or pork. It is typically seasoned with soy sauce, garlic, and other spices, making it a flavorful and hearty meal.

The third most popular food in Mongolia is Khorkhog, a traditional nomadic meal consisting of mutton or beef, potatoes, onions, and various other ingredients, cooked together in a large steam-filled pot. The stew is typically seasoned with garlic, salt, and other spices, resulting in a rich and satisfying dish.

Historical Appearance

Traditional Male Clothing

Traditional Female Clothing