Most Fortified Buildings in The World
By • Last UpdatedMonastery Phuktal, India
In India, the Phuktal Monastery stands as one of the most remote and isolated structures. Founded in the 12th century, this Buddhist monastery clings to the slope of a towering stone cliff. At first glance, it may appear precarious, yet it has withstood the test of time for over 800 years and is currently home to about 70 monks. Access to the monastery is only possible via a hidden mountain path, making it nearly impossible for an unprepared traveler to find.
A distinctive feature of this architectural complex is the natural cave situated above it, which is intriguing to explore and holds many secrets. For centuries, the monastery remained hidden from the outside world until it was visited in 1826 by the renowned Hungarian Orientalist Sándor Csoma de Kőrös. He spent over a year there, immersing himself in the language and customs of the monks, thus becoming a pioneer in revealing this remarkable site.
Although the monastery is now open to tourists, it has retained its unique character. Visitors can wander through the ancient stone corridors, admire the frescoes adorning the walls, and explore the monastery’s historic library. It’s important to note that the journey to the monastery is not easy and begins several kilometers away from the cliff. Typically, it takes about two days to complete the trek, allowing travelers to visit several picturesque Indian villages along the way.