Most Remote Monasteries

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Kozheozersky Monastery

Located in the northwest of Russia, Kozheozersky Monastery is set on a small, scenic peninsula jutting out into Lake Kozhozero. Due to its remote setting, the only way to reach the monastery is to hike for 30 kilometers through the wilderness until you see its white walls rising before you.

Since being founded during the 1550s, the monastery has been burnt down and rebuilt, used as a place for political exile, and even as an army base during the Russian Civil War. Nowadays, it is inhabited by one solitary hegumen, who tends to the building and welcomes the rare visitor who makes it to the monastery.

Phugtal Gompa

Lying nestled away in Lungnak Valley in the Himalayas, Phugtal Gompa in northern India is one of the most remote monasteries on Earth. Overlooking the turquoise waters of the Lungnak River, its sprawl of buildings are perched on the side of a cliff in the contested Ladakh region of Kashmir, only accessible by foot.
Built around a natural cave, the Buddhist monastery was founded approximately six hundred years ago, although it attracted countless sages, scholars and monks long before that. While the monastery and its dramatic setting look a treat, its centuries-old customs and traditions live on: it is still home to a monastic school and holds religious festivals throughout the year.

Mount Athos

As it is home to not one but 20 monasteries, Mount Athos is one of the most important centers of Eastern Orthodox monasticism. It is found in the northeast of Greece. Often referred to as the ‘Holy Mountain’, the peninsula upon which it lies is only accessible by boat, and only men are permitted to visit its steep, forested slopes and remote monasteries.

Since Byzantine times, monks have been living on the peninsula. The Athonite monasteries are all home to impressive artifacts and artworks, with lots of lovely old architecture on show. Visitors to Mount Athos hike between monasteries, take part in religious services and experience the centuries-old monastic way of life.