LOCATION: 290 km northeast of Ulaanbaatar in Umnudelger Soum, Khentii province. Baldan Bereeven Monastery is also known as the Baldan Drepung Monastery. The monastery foundation started in 1777 after Mongolian monk Tsevendorj initiated to build a small wooden temple and created stone carving of Manzushir Buddha, a Bodhisat of wisdom.
The Monastery served as the main religious center in Eastern Mongolia, housed by 5000-8000 monks, 4 religious institutions, and daily active 20 temples. Thus, the monastery was one of the 4 large monasteries in Mongolian in the 19th century. There were numerous gers to reside the thousands of monks and a nunnery built on the far side of the mountain valley.
This Tibetian style Gelugpa (Yellow Hat) Buddhist monastery site was selected according to Mongolia tradition; auspicious area, picturesque nature, and among the four sacred mountains in the Baruun Jargalant River Valley in Khan Khentii Mountains.
The four mountains resemble animals that symbolize strength: a lion on the east, a dragon on the south, a tiger on the west, and Munkh Ulziit Mountain in the north resembles a Garuda. Stiff cliffs of Munkh Ulziit Mountain shelter the monastery from the northern wind where visitors also find many cliff carvings, stone carvings with different images of Buddhist gods, inscriptions of religious mantras, and a large Soyombo symbol. Small lake Bat situates in the southeast of the monastery.
The Baldanbereven Monastery had the same fate as the other monasteries in Mongolia during the 1930’s anti-religious communist regime and fell in oblivion in that period. Only 3 small temples remained partially. In 1990, few monks returned the monastery to begin restoration work in collaboration with the local community, followed by further reconstructions.
Now, the Baldan Bereeven Monastery consists of three restored temples, nearly 50 temple ruins, stupas, and other religious structures.
Except for the religious items, the Baldanbereven Monastery is worth visiting for its surrounding natural settings, specific architectural features, rock art, and nomadism in the valley.
How to travel to Baldan Bereeven Monastery?
180 km paved road and 110 km rough road connect the monastery to Ulaanbaatar. We recommend you travel the monastery by good four-wheel-drive vehicle as the rough roads tend to be muddy in summer. Taking a guided package tour is the best option. You are always welcome to contact us for inquiries about the existing tours or a custom tour. You may combine your journey with Khar Zurkhnii Khokh Nuur along the way where Genghis Khan was enthroned or picturesque Khangal Lake or further extend to the Genghis Khan’s birthplace.
Where to stay at Baldan Bereeven Monastery?
Camping is the best option. Alternatively, you may stay at Bayangol ger camp located 25 km from the monastery.
