Taikhar Rock

It is located 22 kilometers from Tsetserleg town, in Ikhtamir Soum, Arkhangai province. This massive granite formation rises 18 meters high and is famous for its historical inscriptions. Over 150 writings in various scripts- including Turkic, Uyghur, Mongolian, Tibetan, Manchu, and Chinese- have been carved into the rock. The oldest inscriptions are in runic script from the Turkic period, dating back to the 6th-7th centuries. An ovoo (sacred stone heap) has also been placed on top of the rock.

Sadly, many of the ancient inscriptions have started to fade, as recent generations have added graffiti. To protect its cultural value, Taikhar Rock was placed under state protection in 1994. 

The rock information was created over millions of years by the steady flow of the Khoid Tamir River, which slowly carved through the granite cape on the river’s northern bank. A local belief says that if you can throw a stone over the rock, you will receive good luck and wealth. 

Legend about Taikhar rock:

According to legend, a giant snake once emerged from a hole and began devouring people and animals. The terrified villagers called for help, and a strong and wise man named Bukhbilegt came to their aid. He fought the snake, pushed it back into the hole, and dropped this enormous rock on top of it to trap it forever.

The best season to visit 

The best time to visit Taikhar Rock is from late May to early September, when the weather is warm and the landscape is at its most beautiful.