Ongi Monastery

Ongi Monastery, also known as Ongiin Khiid, is strategically located on the banks of the river of the same name in Dundgovi Province. It originally consisted of two separate monastic complexes on the north and south banks of the river. Founded in the 17th century, it grew into one of Mongolia's largest Buddhist universities, with over 1,000 monks and four renowned colleges. The ruins visible today are a silent monument to the destruction during the communist purges of 1939. Visitors today explore the extensive debris fields set against the rocky hills. A small temple has since been rebuilt and houses a community of monks who carry on the tradition. A small, carefully curated museum displays religious artifacts and household items salvaged from the ruins. The location by the river, which is often dry, gives a unique desert atmosphere and is a popular stopover for travelers heading to the South Gobi. In the evenings, nearby ger camps provide spectacular views of the starry sky. Access is via unpaved Gobi tracks and requires an experienced driver or a guided tour. The nearest larger settlement is Saikhan-Ovoo. The best time to visit is from May to September, though one should be prepared for significant temperature fluctuations between day and night. Culinarilly, visitors can often try camel milk products in the region, which are a local specialty. Ongi is a place of contemplation that impressively illustrates the stark contrasts of Mongolian history and nature.

Nearby cities

Arvaikheer

Arvaikheer is located in central Mongolia and serves as the gateway to the historical Orkhon Valley region.

Kharkhorin

Kharkhorin is located near the ruins of Karakorum, the ancient capital of the Mongol Empire in the 13th century.

Khujirt

A famous spa resort in the Orkhon Valley, renowned for its healing thermal springs and mud baths.

Ögii Lake

A scenic freshwater lake in Arkhangai, famous for its abundant fish and as a paradise for birdwatchers in the central Mongolian steppe.

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Khustain Naiman Nuur

An alpine paradise featuring eight volcanic lakes in the Khangai Mountains, ideal for trekking and horse riding.

Dalanzadgad

Dalanzadgad is the gateway to the Gobi Desert in southern Mongolia.

History & landmarks

Flaming Cliffs (Bayanzag)

The Flaming Cliffs, locally known as Bayanzag, are a reddish sandstone formation in the Gobi Desert.

Valley of the Eagles (Yolyn Am)

Yolyn Am, also known as the Valley of the Eagles, is a deep and narrow gorge in the Gurvan Saikhan National Park.

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Khar Bukh Balgas

Ruins of a fortified city dating back to the Kitan period (10th-11th century) in Bulgan Province.

White Stupa (Tsagaan Suvarga)

Tsagaan Suvarga, which translates to White Stupa, is a steep limestone formation in the semi-desert, shaped by wind and water erosion.

More places

Karakorum Ruins

Karakorum was the legendary capital of the Mongol Empire in the 13th century under Ogedei Khan.

Erdene Zuu Monastery

Erdene Zuu is probably the oldest surviving Buddhist monastery in Mongolia.

Tövkhön Monastery

Tövkhön Monastery is perched spectacularly on a rocky mountain peak surrounded by dense forests.

Otgontenger

The highest mountain in the Khangai Mountains is a revered, sacred peak whose snow-capped summit is visible from afar.

Ongi Monastery Ruins

Ongiin Khiid was once among the largest monasteries in the Gobi Desert, located along the Ongi River.

Gobi Camel Breeding

In the vast plains of Ömnögovi province, nomads breed the two-humped Bactrian camel for wool, milk, and as a hardy pack animal.

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Tsogt Taij Castle Ruins

The ruins of Tsogt Taij's Castle (Tsogtyn Tsagaan Baishing) are the stone remnants of a 17th-century fortress.