Monasteries have always been built far from the noise of cities. For monks, remoteness meant silence, focus, and closeness to their faith. That’s why the world is dotted with remote monasteries, some clinging to cliffs, others hidden in mountains or deserts. Getting there isn’t always easy, but that’s part of the experience. Here are some of the world’s most fascinating monasteries that you can actually visit, even if they feel a world away.
Meteora, Greece
If you’re curious about a remote monastery in Greece, Meteora is the place. Giant rock pillars rise from the plains of Thessaly, and on top of them, monasteries were built starting in the 14th century.
At one point, there were two dozen; today, six remain active.
The monasteries are still functioning, but they’re also open to visitors. Climbing the steps up to them feels surreal, with views stretching for miles.
It’s hard to imagine how monks once scaled the cliffs using only ropes and nets. Meteora is one of the most accessible remote monasteries in Europe – easy to reach by train from Athens, but still feeling otherworldly once you’re standing on those cliffs.
Taktsang Monastery, Bhutan
Known as the Tiger’s Nest, Taktsang is perhaps the most remote monastery in Bhutan (which is already a remote country in itself), and one of the most iconic in the world. Perched on the side of a cliff 3,000 feet above the Paro Valley, it looks like it could fall at any moment, but it has been standing since the 17th century.
Reaching it requires a hike of about two hours through forest and steep trails. The climb is tough but manageable, and the views from the top are unforgettable.
The monastery itself is still active, with monks chanting inside rooms decorated with traditional Bhutanese art.
Phugtal Monastery, India
Deep in the remote Zanskar region of northern India lies Phugtal Monastery, built into the mouth of a cave high above a river gorge. There’s no road access; you have to trek for a day or two to reach it.
The monastery is home to around 70 monks and has been a center of learning for centuries.
What makes Phugtal stand out among other remote monasteries is the setting. The whitewashed buildings seem to grow straight out of the cliffside, blending perfectly with the rocks.
It feels like a place suspended in time, far removed from the modern world.
Sumela Monastery, Turkey
Hidden in the Pontic Mountains of northeastern Turkey, Sumela Monastery clings to a sheer cliff face above a forested valley.
Founded in the 4th century, it became one of the most important Christian sites in the region.
Visiting Sumela involves a winding mountain road and a final hike through forest paths. Inside, frescoes still decorate the walls, and from the terraces you get sweeping views of the Altındere Valley.
Though restored in recent years, Sumela retains its sense of isolation, which is exactly the reason for it having been built there in the first place.
Rongbuk Monastery, Tibet
At over 5,000 meters above sea level, Rongbuk Monastery in Tibet is often called the world’s highest monastery. It sits in the shadow of Mount Everest, making it one of the most spectacularly located remote monasteries on the planet.
The journey here is demanding, involving high-altitude travel across the Tibetan Plateau, but the reward is seeing monks live and pray in a place where the air is thin and the world’s tallest mountain looms overhead.
For travelers heading to Everest’s north base camp, Rongbuk is part of the journey, as a showcase of spirituality and raw Himalayan landscapes.
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