The Hemis monastery is ranked as one of the wealthiest monasteries in Ladakh. Situated at an elevation of approximately 12,000 ft, the Hemis monastery is one of the most visited monasteries in India. It houses a vast collection of Thankas, gold statues, Tibetan books, chortens embedded with valuable stones, carriers, weapons, and a stuffed vulture pup. The ancient monastery is enriched with a great deal of history and attracts thousands of tourists every year.

Hemis Monastery Travel Guide

We have shared a comprehensive travel guide in this blog post for exploring the Hemis Monastery in the best way possible. It will include all the required details, including transport, accommodation, and all the popular nearby attractions to see while visiting the breathtaking monastery.

Our travel guide will help you plan an incredible trip if you plan a trip to Hemis Monastery. Our team of trustworthy experts from Ladakh offers customized tour packages at discounted prices to all our customers who wish to spend an unforgettable holiday in Ladakh. If you have any queries related to Hemis Monastery, feel free to contact us. 

Get the best deals to explore Leh and nearby attractions in our Ladakh tour packages.

Highlights of Hemis Monastery

• Dukhang Chenmo or Main Prayer Hall
• Sakyamuni statue in Dukhang Barpa
• Guru Padmasambhava statue in Guru Lhakhang
• Nyingma Lhakhang (The oldest part of the monastery)
• Monastery Museum
• Visitors’ Gallery
• Hemis Festival or Hemis Teschu

Itinerary Guide – How to plan your Itinerary for Hemis Monastery

Planning an Itinerary for the Hemis monastery without an experienced guide is not easy. We have built an Itinerary with our experts and planned a trip to Hemis monastery to share our fabulous experience with you. It would be best if you read it to know all about Hemis monastery to plan your itinerary accordingly.

Preparing for Hemis Monastery Trip

We packed our bags with all the necessary items and started our journey towards the Hemis monastery. While traveling on the Leh-Manali Highway towards Karu, we reached a junction where the left road led to Pangong Lake and the right led to the Hemis monastery. 

Patches of vegetation just appeared to interrupt the dry yet artistic landscape. There was a certain beauty in those barren mountains that we were bound to gasp over. Crossing over the Indus River, we drove about 7 kilometers from Karu and finally reached the monastery.

Reaching the Monastery

The monastery was set in the breathtaking landscape of the Stok mountain on the banks of the Indus River, away from the central city. The experience of the visit to this magnificent monastery was indeed a mix of bliss and beauty. The first sight of the monastery stole our hearts, and there were plenty of quests that awaited us. 

The monastery was surrounded by yellow mustard fields that added color to the otherwise dry mountains. Perched atop the hill, the monastery’s buildings covered almost every inch of the hilltop. Every single structure seemed perfectly balanced above the other. 

Entering the Monastery

Finally, we reached the base of the monastery. As we started climbing the steep stairs of the monastery, the vibrant hues of its interiors revealed themselves like magic. Blue, red, green, and yellow-painted statues poped against the whitewashed walls. The main gate was flanked by numerous prayer stones and colorful prayer flags that fluttered vigorously in the air.

Monastery Courtyard

As we walked further, we reached the central courtyard of the monastery. We were fascinated by the spectacular views of the mountains and the surrounding landscapes. The courtyard was quite spacious, and there were several buildings surrounding it. 

Prayer Hall of the Monastery

The prayer hall had an extensive collection of Thankas, a Tibetan painting on silk cloth depicting a Buddhist deity or mandala. One of the Thankas was the largest one in the monastery and was displayed only once every 12 years.

Assembly Hall

As we entered this hall, we found a statue of the Gyalpo (Fierce Protector), who is believed to protect the Hemis Monastery. The statue represents the highest and most potent form of Tantric Buddhism. After a while, we headed towards another hall called Dukhang Barpa. There were several paintings on the walls and a golden statue of Buddha.

Monastery Museum

The museum had an extensive collection of manuscripts, Buddhist thankas, artifacts, carriers, and different weapons. It showcased various treasures of the monastery, and the best part was that it was very well illustrated. On the ground floor of the museum, there was a small shop, where souvenirs such as t-shirts, books, etc., were sold. Photography was not allowed inside the museum, so we bought some souvenirs for our friends and walked out of the monastery museum.

Guru Lhakhang

As we climbed the upper floor stairs, we reached the Guru Lhakhang, where we caught sight of the giant statue of Guru Rinpoche or Padmasambhava. The twelve aspects of Guru Rinpoche were painted beautifully on a canvas with wooden frames. Afterward, we walked out of the hall and climbed up to the monastery’s roof, which offered amazing views of the surrounding landscapes.

Sacred Hermitage

About 3 kilometers from the monastery complex, there was a sacred hermitage founded by Gyalwa Kotsang. The cave was decorated with colorful Buddhist flags, which beautifully contrasted with the rocky mountains. As we entered the cave, we saw the handprints and footprints of Gyalwa Kotsang on the rocks of the cave.

Conclusion

Although Ladakh is famous for its breathtaking monasteries, desert landscape, and splendid lakes, a trip to Ladakh is incomplete until you have visited some prominent monasteries. The Hemis monastery is one of the largest and culturally rich monasteries in Ladakh. Built on rugged geography, the monastery symbolizes humans living in peace with nature, even in the harshest forms. The lamas in the monastery live solitary lives, preserving the ancient culture of their ancestors. A visit to this stunning monastery is a must-do in Ladakh, and most visitors feel a renewed sense of peace on visiting this place.

So, the next time you plan a holiday in Ladakh, make sure to include the Hemis Monastery in your itinerary. We hope this detailed travel guide will help you plan an excellent trip with your family and friends.

Best time to visit Hemis Monastery

The best time to visit the Hemis monastery is from May to October. If you are interested in Buddhist culture, you can visit the monastery during the Hemis festival, held in June/July. During these months, the roads to Ladakh via Srinagar and Manali are open. Hence, it is the most suitable time for traveling.

The roads to Ladakh via Manali and Srinagar remain closed from November to April because of heavy rain and snowfall. So, you can only travel by air to reach Ladakh and then travel to Hemis monastery.

The road to Hemis monastery from Leh city remains open even during winters. You can plan a trip to the monastery in winter also if you are willing to endure the harsh climate of Ladakh.

Hence, the best time to travel to the Hemis monastery is the best time to visit Ladakh. You can read the Best time to visit Ladakh for detailed information on this topic.

How to reach Hemis Monastery

The Hemis monastery is around 45 kilometers from Leh. It is surrounded by the rocky mountains of the Hemis National Park and is situated south-east of Leh town, off the Indus River road. The easiest way to reach the Hemis monastery is to arrive in Leh by air and then book a taxi or rent a bike to reach the Hemis monastery.

• Flight: Leh Airport – Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport is the nearest airport linked with some of the major airports in India. You can hire a taxi from the airport to reach your hotel in Leh and then plan a day trip from Leh to Hemis monastery and other nearby attractions.
• Cabs / Bus: The local cabs or buses ply within the Ladakh region, and you can also drive your private vehicle/bike to Hemis. You can take the Leh Srinagar highway to reach the monastery if you are traveling from Srinagar. 
• Train: The closest railway station from Leh is Jammu Tawi, 812 km from Leh town. You can hire a taxi from the railway station to Leh. It is a 3-day journey if you stay overnight at Srinagar and Kargil. After reaching Leh, you can hire a taxi to travel to Hemis monastery, as mentioned above.

To get detailed knowledge about this topic, look at this blog post, How to Reach Ladakh.

Hemis Monastery Timings and Entry Fee

The opening hours of the Hemis monastery for visitors are from 8 am to 1 pm and 2 pm to 6 pm. The monastery remains open every day and also on all national holidays.

The entry fee for Hemis monastery is 50 rupees per person.

Accommodation options in Hemis

When visiting the Hemis monastery, you can include nearby monasteries such as Shey Monastery, Thiksey Monastery, and Stakna Monastery. Or you can also visit the monastery on the way to Pangong Lake. 

If you are interested in wildlife and want to explore the Hemis National Park during your visit to the monastery, you can stay in the guesthouses or homestays in the nearby village.

Some people prefer to visit the Hemis monastery during their Sham Valley trip, including Lamayuru Monastery, Magnetic Hill, Uleytokpo, and other tourist places. If you plan a day trip to the monastery, you can return to Leh in the evening, where you can find many accommodation options.

Food options at Hemis

You can find a few food joints near the Hemis monastery where you can buy some snacks or have your meal. But it is advised that you carry your food/water with you as it’s a long day tour including the nearby tourist attractions. In the monastery, you can have some coffee/tea, which the monks of the monastery serve for free.

Hemis Monastery Travel Tips

• Rest as much as possible on the first day of your arrival to acclimatize to the harsh climate of Ladakh.
• Apply good sunscreen to protect your skin from harmful UV rays.
• Wear your sunglasses on sunny days.
• You should be mindful of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) symptoms as they may affect even the most experienced travelers. Harsh climatic conditions in Ladakh can be challenging for you, so be prepared before starting your journey.
• Bring some warm clothes and a down jacket if you plan to visit during the winter. If you want to know essential items for the Leh, Ladakh trip, read our blog post Things to Carry for Ladakh Trip.
• No Inner Line Permits are needed to visit the monastery. You need to buy a ticket and enter the monastery.
• You should wear conservative clothes and respect the rules of the monastery.
• You can find lockers in the monastery to deposit your mobile phones and camera while visiting the monastery museum.
• You can take photos of the scenic views from the gompa. However, it would be best to ask before clicking a picture of any monk in the monastery.
• You can find petrol pumps in Leh and Karu near Hemis. These petrol pumps remain fully functional during winters as well.
• Subscribe for a BSNL, Jio, or Airtel postpaid number because other networks do not function well in Ladakh. 
• Book your flight tickets in advance, as the prices would hike during the peak season in Leh, Ladakh.
• Google flights have a remarkable feature of the flight price alert system. So, search for your flight on google flights and then subscribe for the alert.

Please read the World health organization’s travel advice before traveling anywhere.

Read Indian Government travel guidelines.

History of Hemis Monastery

The history of Hemis monastery states that Naropa, the teacher of the translator Marpa and student of Yogi Tilopa, has laid the foundation of the Hemis monastery. He is also considered the founder of the Kagyu lineage of Himalayan Buddhism and therefore is the main seat of the Kagyu lineage of Buddhism.

The biography of Naropa contains the history of the Hemis monastery, and it was later translated into different languages. It gives a detailed account of how Naropa met the tantric master Tilopa and the duties assigned by Tilopa to Naropa to attain enlightenment. 

Naropa is regarded as the “Abbott of Nalanda,” the famous university in Bihar. This university prospered in its full glory until it was attacked by the Afghan invaders, due to which Naropa traveled to the North and ultimately met Tilopa in Hemis. It was then Tilopa and Naropa both traveled to the kingdom of Magadha in Bihar, which is no longer in existence.

Seige of Hemis Monastery

In the 19th century, the Hemis Monastery was under siege by General Zorawar Singh. But the head lama handled the situation skillfully and thus saved the monastery from the invasion. It is also believed that the Hemis monastery is the only Gompa in Ladakh that has never been sacked. In 1956, the head lama of the monastery disappeared mysteriously and was never found or seen by anyone. After this event, a 12-year-old boy from Dalhousie was appointed the head lama of the Hemis monastery.

The Hemis monastery is the headquarters of the Drukpa order, and all the other monasteries are administered from here. It has been under the guardianship of the Royal Family of Ladakh since its re-establishment in the 17th century. The monastery also trains young monks for the royal gompas of Shey, Leh, and Basgo.

Hemis Monastery and Jesus Christ

There is another controversial story related to the Hemis monastery, which is now considered a hoax. In 1894, Nicolas Notovitch, a Russian journalist, claimed Hemis as the origin of an unknown gospel of Christianity. In the gospel, Jesus is said to have traveled to India during his lost years.

According to Notovitch, the work has been preserved in the Hemis library, and the monks showed it to him while he was recovering from a fracture in his leg. However, this story was reexamined by the historians and Notovitch in his later life admitted to having fabricated the evidence.

Architecture of Hemis Monastery

The structure of the Hemis monastery is similar to the Tibetan architectural vocabulary. The sacred landscape of the monastery is marked with numerous chortens and quarters of monks built on the nearby slope. The main door leads to the courtyard, which is surrounded by impressive structures. Every component of the monastery facing the courtyard has been renovated to accommodate the growing number of visitors and continue its responsibility as the religious and spiritual center of the Drukpa Kagyu order.

Nyingma Lhakhang

It is the oldest part of the monastery and is situated at the back of the central courtyard. One can access the Nyingma Lhakhang through the courtyard in front of the temple’s main entrance. The courtyard has a beautiful water spring and a wood store that contains willow stumps. The kitchen and other ancillary structures are attached to the Nyingma Lhakhang.

Inside the Nyingma Lhakhang, there are two sculptures of Tara and Stagsan Raspa. The hall also contains some delicate murals, images, and paintings that depict the life of Buddha. Some paintings in the Nyingma Lhakhang were ruined due to water seepage and, therefore, were painted again by the local artists in 2015.

Dukhang Barpa

The Dukhang Barpa is the middle prayer hall. One can access the hall from the courtyard through a staircase leading to the porch. The porch has four pillars and balconies with wooden pillars. Inside the hall, the roof is built at three levels held by slender wooden pillars. 

The Dukhang Barpa is used for special events. It is used as a waiting and dressing room for the dancers during the Hemis Festival. The hall also has numerous stupas, a giant Shakyamuni sculpture, and statues in remembrance of Gyalras Rinpoche and Stagsan Raspa. Many original paintings that were damaged due to water seepage were repainted in 2012.

Dukhang Chenmo

The Dukhang Chenmo is the prayer hall which seats the Stagsan Raspa and Drukchen. The paintings in this hall are quite different from those in the Nyingma Lhakhang. They possibly represent the individual style of Ladakhi artists.

The Dukhang Chenmo also contains sculptures of lineage masters and different deities. It is one of the most prominent areas in the monastery. Sacred rituals and prayers are performed here, dedicated to the Drukchen and Stagsan and other deities and masters. 

Guru Lhakhang

The Guru Lhakhang was constructed in 1985 at the suggestion of Drukchen. It was built in place of a destroyed temple, the ceiling of which was partially collapsed. One can access the hall from the courtyard leading to the porch, from where a staircase leads to the Guru Lhakhang. The Guru Lhakhang houses a colossal statue of Guru Padmasambhava built by Nawang Tsering and pictures painted by Tsering Wangdus.

Visitors’ Gallery

The visitor’s gallery was rebuilt in 1996 because it had suffered damage in some parts due to water seepage. However, the dimensions of the gallery were modified to accommodate more visitors. The gallery contains some of the most iconic paintings series and relief paintings that were brought from a hermitage called Gotsang.

The gallery also contained sculptures, woodblocks, manuscripts, metal objects, and decorated textiles, which have now been moved to the museum situated at the end of the visitors’ gallery.

Hemis Festival

The Hemis festival was introduced by Gyalsras Rinpoche Mipham Tsewang in the 18th century. It is dedicated to Guru Rinpoche or Padmasambhava and is celebrated on the 10th and 11th days of the 5th Lunar calendar. It is also believed that his mission was to enhance the spiritual condition of living beings. The birthday of Guru Rinpoche falls on the 10th day of the Tibetan calendar and comes once every 12 years. Hence it is celebrated with great enthusiasm and festivity. 

The Hemis festival takes place in the courtyard in front of the monastery’s main entrance. The sacred rituals performed during the festival are believed to give good health and spiritual strength. A raised stage with an amply cushioned seat and a finely painted Tibetan table is placed with ceremonial items such as uncooked rice, cups filled with holy water, and tormas (figures) made of butter, dough, and incense sticks. A group of musicians plays traditional music with tiny trumpets, large pan drums, four pairs of cymbals, and large-sized wind instruments. A small place next to them is assigned for the monks to sit.

The festival begins with an early morning ritual on the top of the monastery where people can hear the sound of cymbals, drums, and pipes. Then the portrait of “Rygyalsras Rinpoche” or “Dadmokarpo” is customarily displayed for all to worship and admire. The main attraction of the Hemis festival is the mystical masked dance, also referred to as the Cham dance performance. The monks perform this traditional dance part of the Tantric culture and perform in the gompas, which follow the Tantric Vajrayana teachings. One can also see the monks performing tantric worship during the festival.

Nearby Attractions

References

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The post Hemis Monastery – Facts, History and Complete Travel Guide appeared first on Ladakh.

Situated at an altitude of 10,315 ft, the monastery offers a panoramic view of the Shyok Valley and its nearby surroundings. It is affiliated with the Gelugpa sect (Yellow Hat) of Tibetan Buddhism and is a sub gompa of the Thiksey monastery. The Diskit monastery is worth visiting for its breathtaking sceneries and rich Buddhist culture. The  Shyok river, the lofty mountains against the backdrop of the blue sky surrounded by lush green meadows, are an altogether phenomenal view.

Diskit Monastery Travel Guide

We have shared a comprehensive travel guide in this blog post for exploring the Diskit Monastery in the best way possible. It will include all the required information, including accommodation, transport, and all the popular nearby attractions to see while visiting the spectacular monastery.

If you plan a trip to Diskit Monastery, our travel guide will help you plan an incredible and unforgettable trip. Our team of reliable experts from Ladakh offers customized tour packages at discounted prices to all our clients who wish to spend a fantastic holiday in Ladakh. If you have any queries related to Diskit Monastery, feel free to contact us. 

Get the best deals to explore Leh and nearby attractions in our Ladakh tour packages.

Highlights of Diskit Monastery

1. 32 feet Maitreya Buddha statue
2. Wall paintings, Murals, and Architecture
3. Lachung Temple
4. Dukhang or Prayer Hall
5. Monastery School
6. Dosmochey Festival
7. Scenic views from the Monastery Rooftop

Things to do and places to visit near Diskit Monastery

The Diskit monastery is undoubtedly the most popular attraction in Diskit. However, you can also explore the village itself, take a stroll around the streets and witness the life of the local people. Apart from the Diskit monastery, there are several other tourist places such as Khalsar, Hunder, Turtuk, Panamik, and Sumur. There are many more things to do in Diskit and nearby places during your adventure trip to this heavenly location.

Camel Safari in Hunder

Enjoy an adventurous camel safari in the desert landscape of Hunder village and take a moment to admire the stunning views of the surrounding snowcapped mountains. You will indeed find the camel ride a thrilling experience and remember it for your lifetime.

Hot water spring in Panamik

The Panamik village is famous for its hot water spring. It is a small village located near the Siachen Glacier. You can take a trek from the village to the Ensa monastery. Don’t forget to take a dip in the hot spring, as it is said to have many therapeutic properties.

Yarab Tso Lake in Sumur

The enchanting Yarab Tso is located near the Sumur village. You can spend some quality time taking pictures and exploring the surrounding areas. If you are looking for a serene atmosphere, this is the best place to experience a peaceful environment.

Samstanling Monastery in Sumur

The Samstanling monastery is one of the oldest monasteries in the Nubra valley. You can visit this ancient monastery and take a look at its unique architecture. The monastery is built amidst high mountains and is known for its intricate paintings and wall designs.

Visit the Zamskhang Palace

The Zamskhang Palace is the former residence of the rulers of Nubra. It was built in the 17th century and is an ideal example of Tibetan architecture. Although it is not in a good state, you can visit the place to get the fantastic views of the valley.

Rafting in Nubra River

Rafting in the Nubra River is one of the popular activities among adventure enthusiasts. You can enjoy an exhilarating rafting experience in the Nubra and Shyok River during your visit to Diskit.

Cycling in the village

You can enjoy the natural beauty of the surroundings during your bicycle ride. Many tour organizers arrange cycling tours in this area. You will get a chance to witness the snowclad cliffs, blue skies, and the wildlife of the region.

Visit the Turtuk Village

You can plan a visit to the Balti village and experience the distinct culture and life of the people. There are other attractions in Turtuk, such as Balti Heritage Museum and an old mosque known for its exceptional architecture.

Itinerary Guide – How to plan your Itinerary for Diskit Monastery

Planning an Itinerary for the Diskit monastery without a professional guide is not easy. We have built an Itinerary with our specialists and planned a trip to Diskit monastery to share our wonderful experience with you. You should read it to know all about Diskit monastery to plan your itinerary efficiently.

Preparing for Diskit Monastery Trip

We departed from Leh in the morning as the early you leave, the more you can enjoy. Since the beautiful valley has so much to offer, we spent a couple of days in the Nubra valley. Many transport options are available from Leh, but we hired a local cab as it is the best option and more comfortable if you want to stay there for some days. 

After driving for a while, we reached the Khardung La Pass, where we caught a glimpse of the fantastic view of the entire valley. We stopped to click a few pictures, quickly got into our car, and continued our journey towards the Diskit Monastery.

Checkpoint in North Pullu

Once we left Khardung La, we reached a checkpoint where the tourists were supposed to submit their permits. After passing the checkpoint, we came across a glacial stream flowing nearby. We reached the Khardung village and stopped to have some food and get refreshed. The restaurant offered us delicious Dal and Paratha with Lemon Ginger tea, satisfying our souls. We had a brief conversation with the local people and headed for our destination.

Reaching the Diskit Monastery

On reaching Khalsar, we took the left turn towards Diskit and finally reached the village. The Diskit village is famous for its picturesque landscape, double-humped Bactrian camel, and clear night sky. Speeding along the banks of the Shyok river, we could see the monastery at the top of the hill. We kept driving until we reached a point where we had to walk upwards and climb the stairs to enter the monastery. 

The Buddha Statue

The colorful prayer flags made a striking contrast with the monochromic landscape of Diskit. Before entering the monastery, we clicked several pictures of the Maitreya Buddha statue. The statue was so gigantic that it seemed to dominate the sky while facing the majestic Shyok river. A small map was drawn on the pathway entrance, which led to the quarters of the monks and the prayer halls.

Prayer Hall in Diskit Monastery

We climbed a few steps and passed through a gate as we walked through the pathway. We entered the prayer hall and noticed that it was dimly lit. We came across numerous wall paintings, statues, and a giant drum that is said to ward off evil.

A statue of Kali (the protector deity) held the head and arm of a Mongol soldier. The soldier was believed to be a demon killed in the monastery grounds. The remains of the demon were preserved in the hands of the protector deity inside the temple to stop it from reviving in the future.

Monastery Rooftop

Climbing up the stairs, we finally reached the roof of the monastery. It was quite a surreal experience and probably one of the best views we got not just in the monastery but all of Ladakh. 

Conclusion

Although Ladakh is famous for its artistic landscape and magnificent lakes, a trip to Ladakh is incomplete until you have visited some of the famous monasteries. The Diskit monastery is one of the major stops on your Nubra Valley trip. The natural beauty and the peaceful environment will give you a glimpse of the region’s Buddhist culture and history. You can find a good collection of frescos, sacred texts, and idols which are evident in the vibrant culture of Ladakh.

We hope this travel guide will help you plan a remarkable journey with your family and friends. So, the next time you plan a trip to Ladakh, make sure to visit the Diskit Gompa and engage your mind and body in the serene atmosphere of this ancient monastery.

Best time to visit Diskit Monastery

The best time to visit the Diskit monastery is from May to October. During these months, the weather is pleasant, and the roads to Ladakh to Ladakh are open during this time. Hence it is the most suitable time for traveling in Ladakh. 

If you are interested in the Buddhist culture, you can visit the monastery during the Dosmoche festival. The festival is celebrated with great vigor and many festivities in the month of February. So, if you can endure the harsh climate, visiting the monastery during the Dosmoche festival would be a perfect time. 

Ladakh roads via Manali and Srinagar remain blocked from November to April. So, traveling by air is the only option to reach Ladakh and then further to the Diskit monastery.

Hence, the best time to travel to the Diskit monastery is the best time to visit Ladakh. You can read the Best time to visit Ladakh for detailed information on this topic.

How to reach Diskit Monastery

The Diskit monastery is located in the Nubra Valley at 116 kilometers from Leh city. The easiest way to reach the Diskit monastery is to arrive in Leh by flight and then book a taxi or a cab to reach the Diskit monastery. The monastery is also well connected through local buses. So you can use other forms of public and private transport such as bikes to reach the Diskit monastery.

• Flight: Leh Airport – Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport is the nearest airport connected with some of the major airports in India. You can hire a cab from the airport to reach the hotel in Leh and then plan a two-day trip from Leh to Nubra Valley, where you can cover Diskit Monastery and other nearby attractions.
• Cabs / Bus: The local taxis and buses function well in the Ladakh region during the summer months. You can hire a cab from Leh to Nubra, which passes from Khardung La and down to Khalsar village. From Khalsar, you can take the left turn descending towards the Diskit village and reach the monastery.
• Train: The closest major railway station from Leh is Jammu Tawi, 812 km from Leh. You can hire a cab from the railway station to Leh. It is a 3-day journey if you halt overnight at Srinagar and Kargil. After reaching Leh, you can hire a cab to travel to Diskit monastery, as mentioned above.

If you want to get detailed information about this topic, look at this blog post, How to Reach Nubra Valley and How to Reach Ladakh.

Diskit Monastery Timings and Entry Fee

The Diskit monastery remains open from 7 am to 1 pm and 2 pm to 7 pm.

The entry fee for Diskit monastery is 30 rupees per person.

Accommodation options in Diskit

There are a few homestays, guesthouses, and luxury hotels in Diskit where you can plan to stay overnight. You can also stay in Hunder, about 8 kilometers from Diskit. So you can stay in any of the two villages while traveling to Nubra according to your preference.

Food Options near Diskit

We recommend that you have your meal before leaving Leh and pack some food to have later. However, you can have some snacks or soup at Khardung La cafe. You can also find some Dhabas and restaurants in Khalsar and Diskit village, where they offer excellent local Tibetan food, including Momos and Thukpa.

Diskit Monastery Travel Tips

• Rest on the first day of your arrival in Ladakh to acclimatize to the harsh climate.
• You should be cautious of the signs of Acute Mountain Sickness as it may affect even the most skilled travelers. Extreme climatic conditions in Diskit can be challenging for you, so be prepared before beginning your journey.
• Apply good sunscreen to protect your skin from high-intensity UV rays.
• Wear your sunglasses on sunny days.
• Bring some warm clothes and a down jacket if you plan to visit during winter. If you want to know essential items for the Leh, Ladakh trip, read our blog post Things to Carry for Ladakh Trip.
• You should wear conservative clothes and respect the rules of the monastery.
• Photography is not allowed in the museum and prayer hall of the monastery. Also, you should follow monastery rules and ask before clicking a photograph of any monk.
• You can easily find petrol pumps in Diskit. These petrol pumps remain fully functional during the winter season as well. 
• Subscribe for a BSNL, Jio, or Airtel postpaid number because other networks do not receive signals in Leh. As you cross the Khardung La pass and reach Nubra, you should expect only BSNL sims to work.
• Book your flight tickets for Ladakh in advance, as the prices hike during the peak season.
• Google flights have a notable feature of the flight price alert system. So, search for your flight on google flights and then subscribe for the alert.

Please read the World health organization’s travel advice before traveling anywhere.

Read Indian Government travel guidelines.

History of Diskit Monastery

The Diskit monastery was founded in the 14th century by Changzem Tserab Zangpo. Ladakh was then under King Grags-pa-bum-lde and his brother, who unsuccessfully tried to take over Nubra Valley under a local king named Nyig-ma-Gragspa. The local king helped a Gelugpa sect supporter construct the gompa at Diskit and glorify the idol of Tsong Khapa, the founder of the Gelugpa order, in the gompa. 

During the reign of King Blogros-chog-idan, who had even governed western Tibet, Panchen Lhabtsun – a resident of Nubra Valley by birth – studied in Tibet and later became an advisor to the founder of Tashilhunpo Monastery and finally, during his last stage of life, came back to Nubra Valley.

Conquest of Nubra Valley

In 1500, Ladakh was ruled by Bkra-shis-rnamrgyal, who fought Mirza Haider of Central Asia in Nubra, ultimately defeating the last and thus obtaining Nubra under Ladakh King’s rule. Nevertheless, the local chiefs still yielded control in Hunder and Diskit. The Shia Muslims started dwelling in Nubra after this war. Bkra-shis-rnam-rgyal’s son, Tshedbang-rnam-rgyal ruled Ladakh from 1530 and expanded his kingdom. At that time, Nubra people prevented him from invading Hor in Xinjiang, as trade with Yarkand was regarded as crucial to Nubra. 

Establishment of Diskit Monastery

During the rule of Jams-dbang-rnam-rgyal, historical logs imply that a periodic tribute payment was made by the people of Nubra to the ruler. King Bde-‘Idanrnam-rgyal successfully conquered Baltistan and the Mughals. The Rgyal kings had a strong faith in religion and constructed mani walls throughout their empire. Lamas were specially hired to recite hymns in Nubra and other nearby areas. 

In the mid-eighteenth century, Tshe-dbang-rnam-rgyal gave away the authority of Diskit monastery to the Rinpoche of Thiksey Monastery. This agreement has been maintained to the present day. Since then, Diskit has been considered a branch of the Thiksey monastery.

Geography of Diskit Monastery

The Diskit monastery is situated on a hill just above the right bank of the Shyok River in the Nubra Valley. The Nubra River is one of the tributaries of the Shyok River, which flows parallel to the Indus river in the north of the Ladakh Ranges. The valley was part of the caravan course between China and Tibet. Since the valley is situated at a lower altitude, the climate remains mild in the entire region of Nubra Valley. The climatic conditions in Nubra have resulted in the growth of lush green vegetation in the valley and are hence known as the “Orchard of Ladakh”. 

The valley has numerous trekking spots and is home to the double-humped Bactrian camel. It is located beyond the Khardung La pass in Diskit village. Since the Khardung La pass becomes unpassable during winter, the Diskit monastery and village have become the gathering center for the people of the Nubra valley. Diskit is the headquarters of Nubra and therefore has many government offices with basic facilities.

The road to the monastery passes from the Diskit village through a rough road that crosses a stream in the middle of the town. The village is connected to Leh via the Kardung La pass, which remains blocked between October to May due to landslides and heavy snowfall. The road in Khalsar village divides into two of which one the right leads to Sumur and Panamik, while the left leads to Hunder and Diskit village.

Architecture of Diskit Monastery

The Diskit monastery is built on a hill, and one can reach the monastery by climbing the stone stairs, which eventually lead to the prayer hall of the monastery. The hall contains a huge drum and a magnificent statue of Maitreya Buddha. On the second floor, there are numerous images of fierce guardian divinities. The elevated dome of the monastery represents a mural of Tashilhunpo Monastery in Tibet. 

It also contains many shrines and Tibetan and Mongolian texts in the storehouse. The monastery is connected to Mongol mythology which is believed to be the site where an anti-Buddhist Mongol demon once lived. The demon was killed near the gompa premises but is said to have been revived many times. The hand and head of the demon are believed to lie inside the monastery’s temple.

Some extensions made to the monastery building recently are in a good state, but the Zimcchungh and the main prayer hall are ruined. The older part of the monastery is in a wrecked condition, as they remain unattended. The paintings are covered with soot, and the images are kept in disorder. 

Lachung Temple

The Lachung temple is one of the oldest temples in the Nubra Valley. Inside the temple, a colossal statue of Tsong Khapa is revered with a yellow hat of Gelugpa crowning the image. There were exquisite paintings of Buddhist gods and intricately carved walls depicting the chronology and history of Buddhism.

The most attractive part of the Diskit monastery is the picturesque views of the Diskit village, snowcapped mountains, and surrounding landscape that one can witness from the rooftop of the monastery.

Maitreya Buddha Statue

The 32 m Maitreya Buddha statue is situated on the hilltop below the monastery overlooking the Shyok River towards Pakistan. The statue was built in April 2006 and was glorified by Dalai Lama on 25th July 2010. The statue was built from the money from local donations and was decorated with 8 kg of gold. It was built to protect Diskit village, prevent war with Pakistan and promote peace globally.

Monastery School

The monastery is home to about 100 monks. It runs a school with support from a non-government association called “Tibet Support Group”. The organization also provides computer facilities and teaches science subjects in the English language to the Tibetan children of the region. The organization has trained the monks of the monastery to teach the children of the school later. They also provide teaching material and add to the school library in the form of encyclopedias and dictionaries.

Festivals in Diskit Monastery

The famous Dosmoche or Desmochhey festival is celebrated at Diskit Gompa in February. The prayer festival is also observed in the Likir monastery and Leh Palace simultaneously. Since it is celebrated in winter when the Khardung La route is closed, large crowds from nearby villages gather at Diskit monastery to see the Cham dance.

The Cham dance is a mask dance performed by the monastery monks, which depicts the superiority of good over evil. These dances are believed to prevent bad fortune in the upcoming Tibetan new year. During the festival, the heads of the deity statues are uncovered, and images made of dough are thrown out to avoid any disaster occurring and to open the door of fortune and peace to the people.

References

Google Scholar

The post Diskit Monastery – Facts, History and Complete Travel Guide appeared first on Ladakh.

The Lamayuru monastery is a serene place with a plethora of antique designs, enchanting sights, and devoted monks. The gompa is famous for its exciting history and the festival of Yuru Kabgyat. The location of the Lamayuru monastery also serves as a platform to witness the spectacular sceneries of the mountains and hills nearby. Lamayuru is also known as the Moonland of Ladakh because of the geographical formation of moon-like terrains sculpted into the Himalayas.

Lamayuru Monastery Travel Guide

We have compiled a comprehensive detailed travel guide in this blog post for exploring the Lamayuru Monastery in the best possible way. It will cover all the necessary information, including transport, accommodation, food options, and all the major attractions to see in the ancient monastery.

Our travel guide will help you plan a remarkable and unforgettable trip if you plan a trip to Lamayuru Monastery. Our team of trusted experts from Ladakh offers customized tour packages at discounted prices to all our valued customers who desire to spend a wonderful holiday in Ladakh. If you have any questions about Lamayuru Monastery, please contact us. Get the best deals to explore Leh in our Leh Ladakh Tour Packages.

Highlights of Lamayuru Monastery

• Dukhang or Prayer Hall
• Sengge Lhakhang Temple
• Gonkhang Temple
• Naropa’s Cave
• Breathtaking views of the villages and mountains nearby
• Yuru Kabgyat Festival

Things to do and places to visit in Lamayuru

Unlike Leh, you won’t find fancy markets in Lamayuru. So, let us take a look at the popular things to do in Lamayuru:

Trek around Lamayuru

If you are interested in outdoor activities, you can trek around Lamayuru. The trek from Lamayuru to Darcha takes about 18-20 days. You can also go trekking from Lamayuru to Wanla, which can be completed within five days.

Camp in Lamayuru Village

Lamayuru has several places where you can pitch your tent and camp overnight, such as Wanla, Hinju, and Lamayuru village itself. It will be a fantastic experience to camp in the mountains after an arduous trekking expedition in the moon landscape.

Explore the Moon Landscape

During your stay at Lamayuru, you cannot miss exploring the unique landscape. The vast stretch of rocky terrain resembles the surface of the moon. The best location to get the fantastic views of the terrain is from Meditation Hill. 

Meditate in the Peaceful Atmosphere of Lamayuru

If you are looking for a peaceful atmosphere, the Lamayuru monastery is a perfect place for meditation. The beauty and tranquility of this place will calm your mind, body, and soul.

Attend the Yuru Kabgyat Festival

If you are interested in the Buddhist culture, you can visit the gompa around June and attend the Yuru Kabgyat Festival. During the festival, you can witness the cultural dance performances, dramas, and sacred ceremonies performed by the monks of the Lamayuru monastery.

Visit the Wanla Monastery

You can also visit the Wanla monastery, located close to Lamayuru monastery. During your visit to the monastery, you can learn about the Buddhist culture and spirituality. The gompa also offers stunning views of the surrounding areas, a must-see if you visit the Lamayuru monastery.

Explore the Uleytokpo town

Uleytokpo is a small town located in proximity to the Lamayuru monastery. Situated at an altitude of 3040 meters, it serves as a perfect basecamp for trekkers and campers. There are also a few accommodation options in the town where you can opt to rest and let your body acclimatize to the climate of Ladakh.

Itinerary Guide – How to plan your Itinerary for Lamayuru Monastery

Planning a perfect Itinerary for the Lamayuru monastery without an expert guide is not easy. We have built an Itinerary with our trained professionals and arranged a trip to Lamayuru monastery to share our awe-inspiring experience with you. We hope this guide will help you learn all about Lamayuru monastery to plan your trip smoothly.

Preparing for Lamayuru Monastery Trip

We started driving from Kargil along the Leh – Srinagar highway with a brief stop at a few places on the way to Lamayuru monastery. On reaching the Fotula Pass, we clicked some pictures and set off quickly towards the Lamayuru town. 

The drive on the winding roads along the Indus river was absolutely scenic. After a while, we caught the first sight of the monastery, which was really fascinating. The monastery was nestled high up on the hill amidst the barren rocky landscape. 

Reaching the Lamayuru Monastery

Finally, we reached the monastery and got out of our car to pay the entry fee at the ticket counter. We could see several prayer wheels at the monastery’s entrance that led us to the stacks of the multicolored Mani stones (prayer stones). These prayer stones are believed to bring peace and tranquility to the village.

While we admired these beautiful prayer stones, we caught sight of the intricate paintings on the mud walls that seemed to fade with time. At this point, we discovered the old building of the Lamayuru monastery.

Old Lamayuru Monastery

Although the gompa was in a state of ruins, something was mesmerizing about it. The walls were all broken, and the prayer wheels were no longer used. It felt like the place was raided sometime in the past, yet there seemed to be some mystical beauty that forced us to explore the monastery.

As we moved further, we came across some white capsules kept along the walls in between the prayer wheels. The remains of the dead were preserved in these white cases, and it was here we uncovered the ceremonial part of Buddhism. We wondered how the gompa must have been with vibrant red paintings, golden stupa, and whitewashed walls in its glory days.

Mandala Ceremony in Lamayuru Monastery

One of the monks made us understand that the Mandala Ceremony was a ritual in which a Mandala was created by the lamas of the monastery. The ceremony was celebrated annually, and at the end of the year, the monks dismantled it to make it all over again.

The Mandala was a sand painting that represented life. At the end of the year, this sand painting is immersed in the river, and a new one is prepared in its place. The mandala was surrounded by colorful flags called Datter flags.

Assembly Hall of the Monastery

As we entered the Assembly Hall of the monastery, we witnessed the Thanka paintings on the walls. The colorful interiors of the hall made a stark contrast to the simple exteriors that we had experienced so far. There was an aura of calmness and serenity, and one could experience the soothing vibes within the hall.

Prayer Hall of the Monastery

Walking inside the monastery, we met a monk who was quite surprised to see us. We had a brief conversation with him, and at the end, we asked his permission to click a picture with us, and he humbly allowed it. We took a small tour of the new Assembly Hall from outside as it was shut when we found it. 

We noticed that the visitors were busy watching the monks preparing for some ceremony. We asked one of them and learned about the Mandala Ceremony going on in the monastery. We walked out of the prayer hall and sat on the edge to look at the dry mountains and the life of the people in the village below.

Moonscapes of Lamayuru

We climbed up the Meditation Hill, where we saw some decorated stupas and prayer rocks. The stones were carved with Tibetan script, few of them being centuries old. As we climbed up the hill, we could witness the surreal landscape and entire village of Lamayuru. The strange rock formations and the uneven surface offered us an out-of-the-world experience.

Conclusion

Although Ladakh is famous for its ancient monasteries, rocky landscape, and splendid lakes, a trip to Ladakh is incomplete until you have visited some of the well-known monasteries. Lamayuru monastery offers a serene atmosphere with a rich Ladakhi culture and a unique moon landscape. It is situated only 2 hours away from Leh in the middle of Leh and Kargil. The village is perhaps one of the most interesting places that you can see in Ladakh. It is a significant tourist attraction in Ladakh because of its historical significance and incredible scenic beauty. You can enjoy the panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and lakes from the monastery.

So, the next time you plan to visit Ladakh, make sure to include the Lamayuru Monastery in your itinerary. We hope this detailed travel guide will help you plan an incredible trip with your family and friends.

Best time to visit Lamayuru Monastery

The best time to visit Lamayuru is from May to October. The weather is most favorable for traveling during these months and hence a perfect time to visit the Lamayuru monastery. The roads to Ladakh are also open from both Manali and Srinagar sides. However, if you want to attend the Yuru Kabgyat festival, you should visit during June/July.

The roads to reach Ladakh via Manali and Srinagar remain closed from November to April because of heavy snowfall. Hence traveling via air is the only option to reach Leh and further to Lamayuru monastery in Ladakh during winters. The roads to Lamayuru remain open in the winter season from Leh side. However, Namkee La and Fotu La Pass remain closed at times.

Therefore, the best time to visit the Lamayuru monastery is the best time to visit Ladakh. You can read the Best time to visit Ladakh for detailed information on this topic.

How to reach Lamayuru Monastery

Lamayuru is situated on the Leh-Srinagar highway, and if you are traveling from Kargil to Leh or Leh to Srinagar, you will undoubtedly pass through Lamayuru town. It is recommended to halt and enjoy the ancient heritage and scenic beauty of the moonscapes of Lamayuru. The easiest way to reach the Lamayuru monastery is to arrive in Leh by air and then hire a cab to reach the Lamayuru monastery. The monastery is also connected through state-run JKSRTC buses, so you can use other forms of public transport to reach the Lamayuru monastery.

• Flight: Leh Airport – Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport is the nearest airport well connected with the major airports in India. You can hire a taxi from the airport or rent a bike to reach your guesthouse or hotel in Leh and then plan a day trip from Leh to Lamayuru monastery and some other nearby tourist attractions.
• Cabs/Bus: You can hire a cab or rent a bike from Leh to reach the Lamayuru monastery. The distance between the Leh and Lamayuru is approximately 114 kilometers, and it takes around 2 hours to reach by road.
• Train – Jammu Tawi is the nearest railway station from Lamayuru, at 685 kilometers. You can hire a taxi from the railway station to Lamayuru over Srinagar Leh Highway. It is a 3-day journey if you plan to stay overnight at Srinagar and Kargil.

To get more details about this topic, look at this blog post, How to Reach Ladakh.

Accommodation at Lamayuru

Since Lamayuru is located at a distance of 114 kilometers from Leh, it is advisable to stay overnight and enjoy the serene and peaceful ambiance of the village. There are many accommodation options in Lamayuru, including guesthouses and homestays. You can also choose to stay in the monastery as it offers accommodation for visitors. 

Food options at Lamayuru

There are many food joints on the way from Leh to Lamayuru or Kargil to Lamayuru. These restaurants offer local food and do not have a lot of variety. You can also have meals in the Dhabas, which offer excellent and delicious authentic Tibetan food, including momos and Thukpa.

The Lamayuru monastery has a famous restaurant that offers fantastic food. If you reach the monastery in the afternoon, you should definitely have your lunch in this restaurant.

Lamayuru Monastery Travel Tips

• Rest as much as possible on the first day of your arrival to acclimatize to the climate.
• Apply good sunscreen to protect your skin from high-intensity UV rays.
• You should be cautious of the symptoms of Acute Mountain Sickness as it may influence even the most skilled travelers. Extreme climatic conditions in Lamayuru can be challenging for you, so be prepared before beginning your journey.
• Bring some warm clothes and a down jacket if you plan to visit during the winter months. If you want to know essential items for the Leh, Ladakh trip, read our blog post Things to Carry for Ladakh Trip.
• Wear your sunglasses on sunny days.
• No Inner Line Permits are needed to visit the monastery as it is located on the Srinagar-Leh Highway.
• You should wear conservative clothes and respect the rules of the monastery.
• You can take pictures of the picturesque views from the gompa. However, you should follow monastery rules and ask before clicking a photograph of any monk.
• You can find petrol pumps in Leh, Kargil, and Khaltsi. These petrol pumps remain fully functional during winters as well.
• Subscribe for a BSNL, Jio, or Airtel postpaid number because other networks do not receive signals in Ladakh. 
• Book your flight tickets in advance, as the prices would hike during the peak season in Leh, Ladakh.
• Google flights have a remarkable feature of the flight price alert system. So, search for your flight on google flights and then subscribe for the alert.

Please read the World health organization’s travel advice before traveling anywhere.

Read Indian Government travel guidelines.

Nearby Attractions

History of Lamayuru Monastery

According to a popular tradition, the Lamayuru monastery was initially the first Bon monastery in Ladakh. Lamayuru literally means “Sauwastika” a famous symbol for eternity. The most popular school of Bon is Yungdrang which is presently associated with the Drikung Kagyu school of Buddhism.

According to Drikung history, the Indian scholar Naropa caused a lake to dry up and founded the Lamayuru monastery there. The oldest building in Lamayuru is the Seng-ge-Sgang temple located at the southern end of the Lamayuru rock. The temple is attributed to Rinchen Zangpo, a famous builder monk. Dating back to the 10th century, the King of Ladakh had charged Rinchen Zangpo to build 108 monasteries in Ladakh. Several other monasteries in Spiti Valley and the surrounding areas were also built during his reign.

Initially, the monastery consisted of five buildings, and the remnants of the four buildings can still be seen. It is one of the oldest monasteries in Ladakh and home to around 150 monks who reside there permanently. Earlier, 400 monks resided in the monastery, many of which are now based in monasteries in the surrounding towns.

Structure of Lamayuru Monastery

The Lamayuru Monastery is built on the top of a steep hill overlooking the Lamayuru village so that you can see the gompa as you ascend your way up to your destination. A twisted path leads to the main door, adorned with a sequence of prayer wheels that locals refer to as “mani.”

The walls of the gompa are queued with antique portraits, and within the monastery premises, one can find the oldest monastery in the region. The monastery also contains the ruins of the 5 age-old temples that constituted the actual Lamayuru Monastery when it was constructed in the 10th century.

The Assembly Hall of the monastery is adorned with sophisticated Thangka craftwork. One can also find many more prayer halls and a school in the complex of the monumental monastery.

Sengge Lhakhang 

The Sengge Lhakhang is the oldest temple in the Lamayuru monastery. It contains rare Indo Tibetan sculptures of 4 Dhyani Buddhas (Akshobhya, Ratnasambhava, Amitabha, Amoghasiddha), Vairocana, Vajradhatu mandalas. These clay sculptures are painted in different colors and are seated on lotus thrones. The Vairocana sculpture is seated onto lions with sea monsters and a mythical bird surrounding its head, depicting how the temple derived its name.

Gonkhang

A shrine called Gonkhang is situated adjacent to the main temple room. It is dedicated to the protector deities, including Lhamo Palmo and Mahakala (Fiercest Guardian Deity), Apshi ( Guardian of the Gompa), and Radha Shree (Founder of the religious sect of Lamayuru monastery). Several images are displayed in glass cases and beautiful sculptures made for Lamayuru festivals.

Dukhang

The Dukhang is situated on the right side of the courtyard. The temple entrance is painted with a colorful portrayal of the “Guardians of the Four Directions”. On the left wall, there are several rules for the lamas of the monastery. In 1970, the Dukhang was re-decorated with new column paintings.

Naropa’s Cave

On the right side of the Dukhang, a small cave called Naropa’s Cave contains a statue of Naropa, Marpa (Naropa’s student who was a famous poet and translator of religious texts), and Mila Raspa (Marpa’s student and head of Red hat sect of Buddhism).

Festivals in Lamayuru Monastery

Yuru Kabgyat: The most popular festival celebrated in Lamayuru is Yuru Kabgyat. Also known as the Lamayuru Festival, it is a two-day festival and takes place in the 2nd month of the Tibetan calendar. During the festival, lamas from all over the world, including Tibet, Bhutan, China, Japan, and Korea, visit the monastery to attend the festival.

The Yuru Kabgyat is also a major attraction for locals and tourists because of the cultural performances, traditional costumes, and local food that is offered during the ceremony. The monks display local instruments such as pipes, horns, and drums, which are played by experienced artists. The locals put on colorful dresses and perform sacred ceremonies, dramas, and masked dances depicting the life of Buddha.

References

Google Scholar

The post Lamayuru Monastery – Facts, History and Complete Travel Guide appeared first on Ladakh.

The age-old Sankar Gompa is home to different attractions that represent the heritage and history of the conventional building, it is an ideal place for those people who have a passion for exquisite art and culture. The panoramic view of Namgyal Tsemo Hills from the monastery is spectacular. The monastery is built at a picturesque location surrounded by barley fields and looks glorious when lit up at night.

History of Sankar Gompa

The Sankar Monastery belongs to the Gelugpa or Yellow Hat Sect of Tibetan Buddhism. It is the residence of 25 monks of the Gelugpa sect out of which only a few are permanent residents of the monastery. Although the ancient Sankar monastery is believed to have been built 90 years ago, it stands on the location of a small temple constructed around 500 years back. 

Structure of Sankar Gompa

The architecture of the Sankar monastery is relatively modern. It is an attractive group of buildings set amongst green fields above the Leh town. The monastery is built in the lee of Khardung La Pass behind the town of Leh leading to the Nubra Valley and Shyok River Valley. It is beautifully lit at night, so a visit to the monastery in the evening hours will be worth it.

The entrance of the monastery leads to the Dukhang or Assembly hall adorned with extraordinary sculptures and artifacts depicting the Buddhist religion. Numerous paintings of Buddha are also hung on the walls of the hall that appear extremely fascinating. The presence of beautiful paintings and murals radiate positive energy in the monastery complex thus encouraging a person to explore more about the monastery.

A throne inside the Assembly hall is reserved for the head monk of the monastery. Three green drums are kept to the right of the door and the Gyeskos are placed under these drums. The entry door and the room are also painted with intricate illustrations and murals.

Dukar Lhakang (Inner Sanctuary)

The Dukar Lhakang or the residence of the deity is built upstairs. One can find an impressive figure of Avalokitesvara with 1,000 heads and 1,000 arms all holding weapons. The walls of the room are wonderfully painted with mandalas, a Tibetan calendar, and rules for the lamas. Climbing the wooden stairs one can see the room of the Abbot, library, and guest rooms also.

Every morning and evening a lama from the Sankar monastery visits the Namgyal Tsemo Gompa, a fort built by Tashi Namgyal at Namgyal Tsemo. He makes sure that the temples are properly maintained and also lights the butter lamps of the monastery.

Sankar Monastery Travel Guide

We have compiled a comprehensive travel guide in this blog post for exploring the Sankar Monastery most conveniently. It will cover all the vital information, including transport, and all the famous nearby attractions to see while visiting the spectacular monastery.

If you are planning a trip to Sankar Monastery, our travel guide will help you plan a fabulous and unforgettable trip. Our team of dedicated professionals from Ladakh offers customized tour packages at discounted prices to all our customers who wish to spend an amazing holiday in Ladakh. If you have any queries related to Sankar Monastery, feel free to contact us. 

Get the best deals to explore Leh and nearby attractions in our Ladakh tour packages.

Highlights of Sankar Monastery

• Statue of Avalokiteswara
• Dukhang or Assembly hall
• Dukar Lhakang or inner sanctuary
• Monastery Library

Itinerary Guide – How to plan your Itinerary for Sankar Monastery

Planning an Itinerary for the Sankar gompa without an expert guide might not be that easy. We have built an Itinerary with our qualified specialists and planned a trip to the Sankar monastery to share our fabulous experience with you. We hope this guide will help you know all about the Sankar monastery to plan your itinerary easily.

Preparing for Sankar Monastery Trip

We booked a cab and started our journey downhill from our hotel. Initially, we had planned to take a break near the banks of the Indus river but decided to cancel it for the much-awaited breakfast at the Leh Main Market. 

Drive through the Indus Valley

Driving through the Indus valley plains was an absolute visual delight for our souls. The dryness of the grey peaks was tinged with bright shades of greenery from countless trees that were barred high above on the way to Sankar Gompa. The leaves of the trees had already begun to turn yellow and orange declaring the beginning of the harsh winter. 

The hills surrounding us were giving a shady rugged look edged by distant snow-bound peaks far away from our reach. The clear sky above us was wonderfully blue with tinges of white clouds touching the faraway mountain peaks. The roads were absolutely beautiful beside the mighty Indus river flowing towards the Leh town.

Breakfast at Leh Market

Speeding through the road leaving the Indus valley behind, we reached the Leh town. Another 5 minutes drive led us right into the Market. There were several food joints, restaurants, and shops having almost everything for day-to-day essentials. We had our breakfast in one of the restaurants and headed towards the Sankar Gompa.

Reaching the Sankar Gompa

The well-maintained road led on the hillock us to the entrance of the Sankar monastery. We entered the monastery and suddenly found ourselves surrounded by whitewashed chortens and stupas. The sight of the monastery complex was a treat for our eyes. It was now the time to explore the interior of the monastery. 

Entering the Sankar Monastery 

We climbed the staircase and entered the monastery complex. There was an Assembly Hall (Dukhang) situated on the right side of the front yard of the monastery. The entrance was decorated with the picture of the “Guardian of the Four Directions.” There were numerous new paintings of Buddhas along with the Guardian Deities. 

As we proceeded further towards the verandah, we came across the “Wheel of Life” held by a Yama. A royal throne is also kept in the hall which is reserved for the chief lama of the monastery. To the left of the throne was a painting of Avalokiteswara with 1000 heads and 1000 arms.

There was a picture of the founder of the yellow hat sect of Buddhism, Tsong Khapa along with his two disciples. On the left was a painting of Avalokiteswara and on the right was a box full of Tibetan bronzes. Several other images such as Sakyamuni Buddha (Historical), present Buddha, Maitreya Buddha (Future), Amchi (Buddha of Medicine), and White Guardian were also displayed on the room walls.

Dukar Temple

After a while, we headed towards the inner courtyard of the monastery where the Dukar temple was located. The temple was dedicated to the Dukar deity and also housed an image of Dukar with 1000 arms, 1000 heads, 1000 feet, and 100,000 eyes. To the right of this image was a majestic statue of the Maitreya Buddha (Buddha of Future) that created a mesmerizing ambiance in the temple.

Conclusion

Although Ladakh is famous for its unique landscape and magnificent lakes, a trip to Ladakh is incomplete until you have visited some of the famous monasteries. The Sankar monastery is also one of the monasteries that hold a place of special importance among the locals. It is intricately designed, elegantly built, and rich in Buddhist culture. The breathtaking natural beauty of the monastery will give you a break from your dull life and rejuvenate your body, mind, and soul.

We hope this travel guide will help you plan a memorable journey with your family and friends. So, the next time you plan a trip to Ladakh, make sure to visit the Sankar Gompa and explore the region’s rich culture and history.

Best time to visit Sankar monastery

The best time to visit the Sankar monastery is from May to October. The climate is pleasant and appropriate for traveling during these months. However, if you want to attend monastic festivals, the perfect time to visit would be July and August. 

The routes to Ladakh via Manali and Srinagar remain blocked from November to April because of heavy showers and snowfall. Therefore traveling via air is the only alternative to reach Ladakh and then to Sankar monastery during the winters.

Hence, the best time to travel to the Sankar monastery is the best time to visit Ladakh. You can read the Best time to visit Ladakh for detailed information on this topic.

How to reach Sankar Monastery

The easiest way to reach the Sankar monastery is to arrive in Leh by flight and then book a taxi or a cab to reach the Sankar monastery. The monastery is also well connected through local buses, so you can use other forms of public transportation to reach the Sankar monastery.

• Flight: Leh Airport – Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport is the nearest airport linked with some of the major airports in India. You can hire a taxi from the airport to reach your hotel in Leh and then arrange a day trip from Leh to Sankar monastery and some other nearby attractions.
• Cabs / Bus: The local cabs and buses function well in the Ladakh region during the summer months. You can hire a cab from your hotel or walk for half an hour from Leh to reach the monastery.
• Train: Jammu Tawi is the closest major railway station from Leh. You can book a cab from the railway station to reach Leh. It is a 3-day journey if you stop overnight at Srinagar and Kargil. After reaching Leh, you can hire a cab to reach the Sankar monastery, as mentioned above.

If you want to get detailed information about this topic, look at this blog post, How to Reach Ladakh.

Sankar Monastery Timings 

The opening hours of the monastery are from 7 am to 10 am and 5 to 7 pm every day, including national holidays and Sundays. 

Food Options near Sankar Monastery

The Sankar monastery is located only a few kilometers from the Leh Main Market. There are many restaurants and food joints that serve local authentic food and Indian foods. The meals prepared in the restaurants are quite hygienic and you can choose from a variety of traditional dishes giving an excellent dining experience.

Accommodation near Sankar Monastery

You can also explore the nearby tourist places like Zorawar Fort, Jama Masjid, Leh Palace, Namgyal Tsemo, Hall of Fame, Spituk Gompa, and other attractions on the same day. It is recommended that you set off early morning and return to your hotel by evening.

There are several accommodation options in the Leh town near Sankar Gompa. You can choose to stay in any of the hotels in Leh, close to the Sankar monastery.

Sankar Monastery Travel Tips

• Rest as much as possible on the first day of your arrival for better acclimatization.
• Apply good sunscreen to protect your skin from harmful UV rays.
• You should be mindful of the signs of Acute Mountain Sickness as it may impact even the most experienced travelers. Harsh climatic conditions can be challenging, so be prepared before starting your journey.
• Wear your sunglasses on sunny days.
• Bring some warm clothing and a down jacket if you plan to visit during winter. If you want to know essential items for the Leh, Ladakh trip, read our blog post Things to Carry for Ladakh Trip.
• Time restrictions have been placed for visiting the Sankar monastery. Please note that you can visit the monastery only between 7 – 10 am and 5 – 7 pm.
• You should wear conservative clothes and respect the rules of the monastery.
• You can take photographs of the scenic views from the monastery. However, you should ask before clicking a picture of any monk.
• You can find petrol pumps in Leh near Sankar Gompa. These petrol pumps remain fully functional during winters as well.
• Subscribe for a BSNL, Jio, or Airtel postpaid number because other networks do not receive signals in Leh. As the monastery is situated near Leh, these networks will work fine at the monastery also.
• Book your flight tickets in advance, as the prices would hike during the peak season in Ladakh.
• Google flights have a remarkable feature of the flight price alert system. So, search for your flight on google flights and then subscribe for the alert.

Please read the World health organization’s travel advice before traveling anywhere.

Read Indian Government travel guidelines.

Nearby Attractions

References

Google Scholar

The post Sankar Monastery – Facts, History and Complete Travel Guide appeared first on Ladakh.

The market is divided into several small pathways and streets, with sections allocated to clothes, artifacts, spices, food, souvenirs, and handicrafts. One of the top things that Leh Main Market is famous for is its woolen garments. Because of the cold climate, the people in Leh have a culture of creating handwoven woolen clothes, which have now become popular and demanded local products of Ladakh. 

The central location of the market also eases visits to many nearby attractions such as Jama Masjid, Leh Palace, Zorawar Fort, Hall of Fame, Shanti Stupa, and many more. Whether you are looking for artistical hand-crafted Pashmina shawls, delicious dried fruits, or simply looking forward to getting a glimpse of the lives of the local Ladakhi people, the Leh Market has a lot to fulfill all your expectations.

Leh Main Market Travel Guide

Are you planning to visit the Leh Main Market? This travel & shopping guide will help you prepare for your visit to the Leh Market and what to expect during your Leh Market visit for the first time.

Our team of trusted experts from Ladakh offers customized tour packages at discounted prices to all our valued customers who wish to spend a fantastic vacation in Ladakh. If you have any queries about Leh Main Market, please contact us. Get the best deals to explore Leh in our Ladakh tour packages.

What to buy from Leh Main Market – Shopping Guide

1. Tibetan Handicrafts, Artifacts, and Artisanal Gifts: Ladakh is famous for its Tibetan handicrafts and artifacts. You can find intricately painted Thanka paintings of different sizes that make for unique wall hangings. Prayer wheels, beads, and prayer flags are found plentifully which can be used to decorate your vehicle. You can also look out for carved wooden tables that are varnished and painted in lively colors.
2. Stone and Silver Jewelry: The elegant Ladakhi jewelry can make a stunning addition to your jewelry collection. You can find a wide variety of rings, earrings, necklaces, key chains, and bracelets while shopping in the Leh Main Market. But you need to make sure that it is hallmarked for its authenticity.
3. Woolen and Pashmina Products: Ladakh is also famous for its delicate and warm Pashmina shawls made with pure pashmina wool. You can buy caps, socks, sweaters, blankets, and traditional robe “Goncha” embroidered with colorful threads.
4. Ladakhi and Kashmiri Carpets: The Leh Main Market is a one-stop shop to make your home a place of radiance. Don’t forget to buy Ladakhi carpets handwoven with wool and dyed naturally by the local people. On the other hand, Kashmiri carpets have more sophisticated designs and are woven with more refined wool. Nothing can add a touch of elegance and regality to your home as a Ladakhi carpet with its sparkling colors. 
5. Ladakhi Crockery / Kitchenware: You can also buy cups, mugs, and other kitchenware with Ladakhi imprints printed on them to remind you of your Ladakh trip.
6. Apricot Jams: That only fruit that grows amply in the harsh climate and barren terrain of Ladakh are apricots. The locals use this luscious fruit to make oil, juice, and jams. You can buy dried apricots or enjoy freshly plucked apricots sold in the Leh Main Market.

Itinerary Guide – How to plan your Itinerary for Leh Main Market

Planning an Itinerary for Leh Main Market without a professional guide is not easy. We have built an Itinerary with our trained specialists and planned a trip to Leh Main Market to share our fantastic experience with you. We hope this guide will help you know all about Leh Main Market to plan your visit easily.

Preparing for our visit to Leh Main Market

We started from Leh after having our breakfast. Our car made a smooth glide on the long pitched roads, and we could notice the army barracks keeping vigilance on the approaching vehicles. At a distance, we saw a group of soldiers marching past our car against the backdrop of dry landscape, reminding us of the complex reality of Ladakh. 

We had decided to pick three of our friends who came to Ladakh for the first time. So, we stopped to pick them up at their hotel and headed towards the Main Market. On the way, we could see many whitewashed chortens fo the monasteries on the maroon and brown mountains.

Reaching the Main Market

After driving for 15 minutes, we finally reached the market. The Leh Main Market is a blend of traditional age-old handicrafts and exceptional craftsmanship and artistic skills of the local people. Many restaurants and cafes were open in Leh Market that served delicious local cuisine to the visitors. Several choices of souvenirs were available for any enthusiastic traveler in Leh Market.

Ladakhi Restaurants in Leh Main Market

We entered one of the lovely eateries where they served authentic Ladakhi cuisine prepared in Tandoor. The lamb stew and steamed dumplings were exactly what we needed to add fuel to our otherwise plain evening. After having our lunch, we walked into the market for a couple of hours. 

Stalls in Leh Main Market

While strolling in the market, we could notice the dried herbs and potatoes abundantly sold in the market. Candy packages with Chinese letters reminded us of the fondness of people to eat similar eatables across the borders. Loads of apples and apricots were sold by the street vendors.

Jewelry Shops in Leh Market

The most exciting thing in the market was the jewelry shops. We noticed that most of the local women wore silver and turquoise jewelry. The extraordinary design amazed us, and we decided to buy some to gift our friends. 

There were several jewelry shops that sold bracelets, earrings, rings, neckpieces, and anklets that can make an elegant addition to your jewelry collection. Just make sure that you verify the genuineness of the precious stones and silver ornaments before buying them!

Tibetan Handicrafts in Leh Market

We also came across the Tibetan population who have permanently settled in Ladakh from ancient times. They were extremely warm, kind, and friendly people. Their presence in Ladakh added to the richness of the local culture, and they welcomed us inside their small shops. There were eye-catching Thanka paintings that were painted intricately by these people. 

Statues of Buddha, Padmasambhava, and other sacred objects were exquisitely sculpted. We also saw some beautifully carved wooden objects painted in radiant colors to perfection. After spending some time with these lovely Tibetan people, we finally bought some colorful flags, and exquisite bowls carved very intricately.

Pashmina Shawls in Leh Market

As we entered one of the shops, we were captivated by the sight of the best Pashmina shawls. The shawls were fairly warm and were made from pure Pashmina wool. Although pure Pashmina is quite rare, this shop was very famous for its high-quality woolen and Pashmina products. 

There was a time when only the rich could afford Pashmina, but now there are plenty of shops that sell Pashmina products in the form of sweaters, gloves, blankets, caps, and shawls. The best thing about the Pashmina products is that it’s incredibly lightweight but offer warmth when we wear them in winters. 

Ladakhi Carpets and Rugs

The Ladakhi carpets in the Leh market were abundantly present in many local shops. These hand-weaved carpets were made from wool, and their vibrant colors could even lighten up a room. We considered purchasing one of the Ladakhi carpets handmade by the local artisans. These carpets were dyed with natural colors, and their beauty will genuinely add a touch of magnificence to your home.

Conclusion

Shopping in the Leh Main Market is an open invitation to explore the craftwork and culture of Ladakh. Besides, you can buy various local items and handicrafts as Ladakh souvenirs as well. But before you rush to fulfill your excitement, be mindful to ensure some essential points. 

Bargaining is the most important thing to keep in mind while shopping in Ladakh. Even when the shopkeepers fix the prices, do not hesitate to indulge in some good bargaining. Also, when you buy silver jewelry, do not forget to check the hallmark on the jewelry. 

Now that you know everything, you are good to go shopping in the Leh Main Market. Get ready to buy some Ladakhi souvenirs and warm shawls to take back home for your friends and relatives. We hope you return to your home with a soul full of smiles and bags full of goodies.

Leh market in winter

The winter season in Ladakh lasts from November to March. During winters, the temperature drops drastically, sometimes up to -15 degrees Celcius at night. There are high chances of roadblocks and landslides, which can hinder your travel plans in Ladakh. So, if you want to explore the Leh Market perfectly, it is not advisable to visit during the winter months.

How to Reach Leh Main Market

There are many convenient ways to reach the Leh Main Market. The easiest way to reach Leh Market is to arrive in Leh via flight and then hire a taxi or a cab to reach the Leh Market. You can use other forms of public transport to reach the Main Market as it is well connected through local buses also.

• Flight: Leh Airport – Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport is the nearest airport connected with some of the major airports in India. You can hire a taxi from the airport to reach your hotel in Leh and then plan a day trip from Leh to Leh Market and some other nearby attractions.
• Cabs / Bus: The local buses and cabs function well in the Ladakh region during the summer months. There are several cabs available outside the airport. You can book a cab from the airport to reach the Leh Market.
• Train: Jammu Tawi is the nearest major railway station from Leh, Ladakh. You can book a cab from the railway station to reach Leh. After reaching Leh, you can take a taxi to reach the Leh Market, as mentioned above.

If you want to know more about this topic, take a look at this blog post, How to Reach Ladakh.

Best Time to Visit Leh Market

Although both summers and winters have their own charm when it comes to selecting the right time to visit Leh Market. The best time to visit the Leh Market is from May to September. 

• Summer: During summers, the weather is most suitable for traveling. The Srinagar-Leh highway and the Leh-Manali highway remain open during summers as there are fewer chances of rainfall and landslides on the Himalayas. The radiant sunlight offers a spectacular contrast with the cold weather of Leh. You can find the perfect opportunity to explore every nook and corner of the Main Market.
• Autumn: The autumn season starts from September and lasts until October. As the weather gets colder in Ladakh, the Srinagar-Leh highway and Leh-Manali highway close due to heavy snowfall. The number of tourist arrivals also reduces noticeably, making it the best time to visit the Leh Market.

If you want to get detailed knowledge about this subject, you can take a look at our blog post, Best time to visit Ladakh.

Food Options in Leh Market

Numerous people visit the Leh Main Market, including the local people of Ladakh. The market is surrounded by permanent food joints, small food stalls, and eateries that serve Indian and local authentic Tibetan food.

Although the restaurants serve a variety of traditional and regional cuisines, they make sure that the food is prepared hygienically for a fabulous dining experience. You can choose from the local varieties of dishes such as thukpa, momos, and an incredible range of Chinese and Indian food. 

Leh Market Travel Tips

• Rest as much as possible on the first day of your arrival for acclimatization in Leh.
• The sunrays in Ladakh are of high intensity. So, apply a good sunscreen and do not forget to wear your sunglasses on sunny days.
• Carry warm clothes if you plan to visit Ladakh during the winter months. Please read our blog post Things to Carry for Ladakh Trip to get detailed information about the essential items for the Ladakh trip.
• You can easily find petrol pumps in Leh as they remain fully functional even during winter.
• Subscribe for a BSNL, Airtel, or Jio postpaid number as other networks do not function well in Ladakh.
• Although the items in Leh Market are reasonably priced, you can try bargaining to get the best price for any item.
• Enquire about authentic stores that sell verified items as there are a variety of products available in the Leh Market. Spend your money judiciously on exotic items such as jewelry, shawls, and handicrafts.
• You can also collect some local authentic dried fruits and home-cooked food from the small shops set up by the local people.

Please read the World health organization’s travel advice before traveling anywhere.

Read Indian Government travel guidelines.

Nearby Attractions

References

Google Scholar

The post Leh Main Market – Travel and Shopping Guide appeared first on Ladakh.

The architecture of Jama Masjid

Situated in the Main Bazar, it is a must-see attraction in Ladakh. The interiors of the mosque are built with unique architecture and decorated with intricate carvings. The mosque stands as a symbol of glorious magnanimity and religious forbearance. Blending seamlessly with the devout and religious force area of Leh, the long-established mosque was recently changed with modern architecture a few years ago.

Initially, the mosque was built with a domed constitution but was changed a few years back. The new building contains excellent architecture and is adorned with sophisticated carvings. The specific factor about this mosque is that only men are allowed to enter the mosque premises.

History of Jama Masjid

The history of Jama Masjid states that during 1667 AD, the Mughal emperor Aurangzeb signed an agreement with the Ladakhi ruler Deldan Namgyal. According to this agreement, the Mughals were supposed to protect Ladakh in return for a fee, along with the construction of the Jama Masjid in Leh as its symbolic seal. Afterward, Sengge Namgyal built the mosque as a tribute to his Muslim mother. Today, the mosque stands majestically as a creative work of Turkish-Iranian architecture.

Best time to visit Jama Masjid

The best time to visit Jama Masjid is from May to October. The weather is quite pleasant during these months, and you can easily travel anywhere in Ladakh. The mosque remains open every day, and you can visit anytime in the morning, afternoon, or evening hours.

The roads to Ladakh via Srinagar and Manali remain closed from November to April because of heavy snowfall. As such, you can reach Ladakh via flight only and then travel further to the Jama Masjid. If you want to get detailed information about this topic, you can take a look at our blog post, Best time to visit Ladakh.

How to reach Jama Masjid 

The easiest way to reach Jama Masjid is to arrive in Leh via flight and then hire a cab or a taxi to reach Jama Masjid. You can also use other forms of public transport to reach the Jama Masjid.

• Cabs/Taxi: If your hotel is around Leh Bazaar, you can walk to the mosque itself. If you stay somewhere far from Leh City, you can hire a cab and reach the Jama Masjid, Leh. 
• Flight:  Leh Airport – Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport is the nearest airport connected with some of the major airports in India. You can hire a taxi from the airport to reach your hotel in or around Leh and then arrange a day trip to Jama Masjid and some other nearby attractions.
• Train: The nearest significant railway station from Leh is Jammu Tawi. From the railway station, you can hire a cab and reach Leh. It will take 3 days to reach Leh if you plan to stop overnight at Srinagar and Kargil. After reaching Leh, you can travel to Jama Masjid, as mentioned above.

If you want to know more about this topic, look at this blog post, How to Reach Ladakh.

Food options near Jama Masjid

There are a lot of decent restaurants and food joints in the Main Market. Since it is the capital city, you can easily find eateries with many options to fulfill your hunger.

Jama Masjid Travel Tips

• Rest on the first day of your arrival in Leh for acclimatization.
• Apply good sunscreen to protect your skin from high-intensity UV radiation.
• Make sure to wear your sunglasses on sunny days.
• If you plan to visit in winter, bring some warm clothes with you. If you want to get detailed information, take a look at Things to Carry for Ladakh Trip.
• You should wear conservative clothes and respect the sanctity of the mosque.
• You can easily find petrol pumps in Leh which remain fully functional even during winters.
• You can easily find ATMs in Leh Market. Therefore, cash availability will not be a problem near the mosque.
• Subscribe for a BSNL, Jio, or Airtel number as other networks do not function well in Leh. 
• Book your flight tickets as early as possible because the prices hike during the peak seasons in Ladakh.
• Google flights have a remarkable feature of flight price alert. So, search for your flight and then subscribe to the alert.

Please read the World health organization’s travel advice before traveling anywhere.

Read Indian Government travel guidelines.

Nearby Attractions:

The Jama Masjid is situated in Leh. So you should know about the nearby attractions to arrange your whole day trip in and around Leh.

1. Main Bazaar Leh: The Jama Masjid is situated in the heart of Leh city. After visiting the mosque, you can also take a stroll around the city and indulge in shopping at the unconventional market.
2. Zorawar Fort: The Zorawar Fort is around 2 kilometers away from the Jama Masjid, Leh.
3. Leh Palace: The Royal Palace of Leh is situated 3.3 kilometers from the Jama Masjid. You can have your lunch in the main market and then visit Leh Palace. 
4. Central Asian Museum: The museum is just a few meters away from the Jama Masjid. You can take a walk and reach the museum in a few minutes.
5. Shanti Stupa: You can enjoy the panoramic views of the entire Leh town from the Shanti Stupa. It is situated 3.4 kilometers from the Jama Masjid.
6. Sankar Gompa: The Sankar monastery is located around 2kilometers from the Jama Masjid. It will take around 5-10 minutes to reach the monastery.
7. Hall of Fame: The Hall of Fame is around 6 kilometers away from the Jama Masjid. It will take around 10 minutes to reach there from Jama Masjid.

References

Google Scholar

The post Jama Masjid Leh – History, Architecture and How to reach appeared first on Ladakh.

The gompa belonged to the Gelugpa sect of Tibetan Buddhism and was founded by Lama Duwang Chosje in 1065, under the direction of Lhachen Gyalpo (fifth king of Ladakh). The monastery is beautifully built on a small hill in the Likir village near the banks of the Indus river, about 9.5 kilometers to the north of Srinagar – Leh highway. Although the Likir village is secluded, it was once a major trade route traveled by Hemis, Tingmosgang, and Likir to Leh.

The Likir monastery is one of the oldest monasteries in Ladakh and has many stories of its existence and origin. It offers panoramic views of the surreal landscape and the snowcapped Himalayan mountains. The natural beauty of the nearby surroundings attracts numerous visitors across the globe. While visiting this monastery, make sure that you also visit the small villages near the gompa as they offer amazing views for flawless photography.

Likir Monastery Travel Guide

We have compiled a detailed travel guide in this blog post for exploring the Likir Monastery in the best possible way. It will cover all the vital information, including transport, accommodation, food options, and all the prominent attractions to see in the awe-inspiring monastery.

Our travel guide will help you plan a remarkable and unforgettable trip if you plan a trip to Likir Monastery. Our team of trusted specialists from Ladakh offers customized tour packages at discounted prices to all our valued customers who wish to spend a marvelous vacation in Ladakh. If you have any queries about Likir Monastery, please get in touch with us. Get the most suitable deals to explore Leh in our Leh Ladakh Tour Packages.

Highlights of Likir Monastery

• 75 feet statue of Maitreya Buddha
• Painting, thankas, and murals
• Hand-painted mandala (Wheel of Life)
• Gonkhang Temple
• Monastery Museum
• Dosmochey festival

Itinerary Guide – How to plan your Itinerary for Likir Monastery

Planning a perfect Itinerary for the Likir monastery without an expert guide is not easy. We have built an Itinerary with our trained professionals and arranged a trip to Likir monastery to share our awe-inspiring experience with you. We hope this guide will help you learn all about Likir monastery to plan your trip easily.

Preparing for Likir Monastery Trip

We booked a cab early in the morning and started our journey towards the Likir monastery. Numerous scenic attractions marked the road between Leh and Likir, and the snowclad mountains made a remarkable contrast with the clear blue skies in the background. The beautiful landscape seemed like a beautiful fantasy, with white-streaked mountains standing in the distance.

At some point, the mountains seemed so close that we felt we could actually touch them. The monasteries and houses of the local people were artistically carved along the slopes of these mountains. While driving right next to the Indus river, we even got to see the Confluence of the Zanskar and Indus river. As we neared our destination, Likir monastery, we came across what appeared to be terrace-like structures along the mountain slopes. 

Reaching the Monastery

We crossed a golden-colored gate and entered the Likir village a while later. Finally, we reached the monastery and walked the rest of the distance until we entered the gate of the monastery. There was a giant red-colored prayer wheel and several small prayer wheels inside the monastery. As we went up the monastery, we noticed the whitewashed walls and wood-paned windows, which is the usual design of Ladakh monasteries. 

Dukhang or Assembly Hall

After climbing up to the central courtyard, we reached the main assembly hall of the monastery. The entrance was painted with guardians of the four directions on the other side of the door. To the right of the verandah, a Wheel of Life was guarded by Yama, the deity that determines a person’s fate after death.

There were also six rows of seats for the monks, and this is where they take their meals and perform their daily prayers. Numerous thangkas were hung on the walls of the Dukhang, and two large chortens stood at the front of the hall. The chorten, on the left, had a statue of Avalokitesvara, and on the right had a statue of Amitabha. 

As we moved further, a historical statue of Sakyamuni Buddha and Maitreya Buddha was placed in the center of the hall. To the right of these statues was a statue of Tsong Khapa with his two disciples, and a throne in the center of the hall was reserved for the head monk of the Likir monastery.

Gonkhang Temple

We entered the red doors of the Gonkhang temple, where we could see numerous red pillars and colorful thangkas. The walls were painted with Buddhist deities, symbols, and the ceilings hung with Tibetan Buddhist paintings on pieces of cloth. Several Bodhisattvas or guardian deities were displayed beautifully in a mirror case at the center. A rare Jupiter tree was also placed in the courtyard of the monastery.

Monastery Museum

Afterward, we headed towards the monastery museum, where some Buddhist artifacts, ancient thankas, and Buddhist literature were put on display. Meanwhile, all the lamas set out to have their lunch in the monastery kitchen, where they were served rice, dal, and mixed vegetables.

Maitreya Buddha Statue

As we walked out of the monastery, we came across the monastery’s main attraction, the statue of Maitreya Buddha. The colossal Buddha statue was seated on the roof of the monastery. We leisurely strolled around the monastery and caught some fantastic views of the Likir village.

Next to the monastery, a small trek path led us to old Likir that housed numerous whitewashed chortens. The scenery from this point, the lush green farmlands, and the towering mountains in the backdrop were simply breathtaking.

Conclusion

Although Likir village is located slightly off the beaten track, there is a lot to see and do in the nearby surroundings. The village is scenic, and the monastery itself is a testimony of rich cultural and religious prominence. You can have a great time exploring the natural beauty, panoramic landscape, and tranquility of the Likir village and monastery.

So, the next time you plan to visit Ladakh, make sure to visit the Likir Gompa. We hope this detailed travel guide will help you plan an incredible trip with your family and friends.

Best time to visit Likir monastery

The best time to visit the Likir monastery is from May to September. The weather is pleasant and suitable for traveling during these months. However, if you are interested in the Buddhist culture, you can visit the monastery during the Dosmochey festival. It is celebrated annually in the 12th month of the Tibetan calendar. The festival involves ritualistic dances, food, music, traditional sports, and much more.

The roads to Ladakh via Srinagar and Manali remain closed from November to April due to heavy snowfall. Therefore traveling via flight is the only option to reach Leh and then further to the Likir monastery during the winter months. But please ensure that you can endure the harsh weather while witnessing the beauty of Ladakh in winter.

Hence, the best time to travel to the Likir monastery is the best time to visit Ladakh. You can read the Best time to visit Ladakh for more detailed information on this topic.

How to reach Likir Monastery

The Likir monastery has emerged as one of the top things to see in Ladakh in recent years. It can be covered from Leh or when you are going to Leh from Kargil. The easiest way to reach the Likir monastery is to arrive in Leh by air and then hire a cab to reach the Likir monastery. The monastery is also connected through state-run buses, so you can use other forms of public transport to reach the Likir monastery.

• Flight: Leh Airport – Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport is the nearest airport well connected with the major airports in India. You can hire a taxi from the airport to reach your guesthouse or hotel in Leh and then plan a day trip from Leh to Likir monastery and some other nearby attractions.
• Cabs / Bus: You can hire a cab from Leh and take the Srinagar-Leh highway to reach the Likir monastery. If you are traveling from the Manali side, you can still reach the monastery by taking the Leh-Manali highway and traveling further to the Likir monastery.

You can also plan to travel by bus, but then you might need to hitchhike about 9 kilometers before the Saspul diversion point on the Srinagar-Leh highway. You need to take the right turn from this point and then travel about 5 kilometers to reach the Likir monastery.

• Train: Jammu Tawi is the nearest major railway station at 812 kilometers from Leh, Ladakh. You can hire a taxi from the Jammu railway station to reach Leh. It is a 3-day journey if you plan to stop overnight at Srinagar and Kargil. Or you can stay at Likir monastery also after Kargil if you are cautious about the AMS issue.

To get more detailed information, look at this blog post, How to Reach Ladakh.

Likir Monastery Timings and Entry Fee

• The opening hours of the Likir monastery are from 8 am to 5 pm every day.
• The monastery does not charge any entry fee, but you need to pay 20 rupees for entering the monastery museum.

Accommodation at Likir Monastery

There are a few homestays and guesthouses in Likir village where you can plan to stay overnight. Since the village is located at a lower altitude than Leh, many people prefer to stay overnight in these homestays after flying to Leh for better acclimatization. 

Moreover, you can also visit and explore the local attractions in the famous Sham Valley, including Gurudwara Pathar Sahib, Magnetic Hill, Basgo Plains, and Confluence of Indus and Zanskar Rivers. It is recommended to start early morning from Leh for an entire day trip to the Sham Valley attractions.

Food Options at Likir Monastery

If you plan a day trip to Likir, we will suggest you have your meal at Nimmu village, where plenty of local shops is available on the way. Some restaurants offer very nice authentic Tibetan food and snacks. The Nimmu village is located on the way to Likir, about 34 km from Leh, and it is an hour’s drive from Nimmu to Alchi.

You can also have your meal upon reaching Likir village. There are some eateries and tea shops in the village and near the monastery as well.

Likir Monastery Travel Tips

• Acclimatize yourself well on the first day of your arrival in Leh.
• You should be aware of AMS symptoms (Acute Mountain Sickness) as it may hit even the most experienced travelers. So, prepare yourself for the extreme climatic conditions before commencing your journey.
• Apply a good amount of sunscreen to protect your skin from the high-intensity UV rays.
• On sunny days, make sure to wear your sunglasses.
• Carry some warm clothes and a down jacket if you plan to visit during winter. If you want to know essential items for the Leh, Ladakh trip, take a look at our blog post Things to Carry for Ladakh Trip.
• Note that there are limited food options near Likir monastery. So, it is advised that you carry enough food and water if you do not like the local food offered at the restaurants.
• You can also visit the monastery museum, which is pretty small but well maintained by the administration. The entry fee for the museum is 20 rupees per person.
• Subscribe for Airtel, Jio, or BSNL postpaid numbers as other networks do not receive signals in Ladakh.

Please read the World health organization’s travel advice before traveling anywhere.

Read Indian Government travel guidelines.

History of Likir Monastery

As mentioned in the Ladakhi chronicles, the Likir monastery was established by King Lhachen Gyalpo (1050-1080 CE). Initially, it was associated with the early Kadampa order of Tibetan Buddhism before its transformation to the Gelugpa orders. However, the monastery that stands today is not the original form constructed in the 11th century. It was reconstructed in the 18th century after it got ruined by fire. 

The monastery is home to approximately 120 Buddhist monks and has a school with thirty students. It is managed by the Central Institute of Buddhist Studies, and the students are taught in Hindi, Sanskrit, and English languages.

The Likir monastery is also known as “Lu Khyil” (water spirits circled). It owes its name to the water spirits called Nagas, who once lived there. It is said that the fifth king of Ladakh, Lhachen Gyalpo offered the land to Lama Duwans Chosje for building the monastery in 1065. In the 15th century, the monastery joined the Gelugpa order of Tibetan Buddhism.

The Assembly Hall of the monastery contains the Shakyamuni, Maitreya Buddhas of the present, past, and future, and an imposing statue of Kangyur, Tsong Khapa, and Tangyur. There are some life-like paintings of the Tung-Shah in the Nyenes Khang. 

The Gonkhang houses the statue of Se Ta Pa (Protective deity) and Yamantaka. The monastery is the seat of the present emanation of the brother of the Dalai Lama. Although he is not permanently settled here, he attends the important festivals and rituals of the monastery.

The Architecture of Likir Monastery

The architecture of the Likir monastery is a classic example of a fortress-type monastery. The gompa has two assembly halls called Dukhangs. The earlier one is situated on the right side of the central courtyard and consists of six rows of seats for the monks and a royal throne for the Head monk of Likir monastery. 

Dukhang

The Dukhang contains statues of Amitabha, Maitreya, Bodhisattva, Sakyamuni, and Tsong Khapa (Founder of Yellow Hat Sect). On the roof, a 75 feet (23 meters) high statue of Maitreya Buddha, gilded in gold, was built in 1999. The monastery is a storehouse of ancient manuscripts and has a significant collection of old costumes, thankas, and earthen pots.

The bookcases standing beside the statue contain volumes of the Sumbum, portraying the teachings and life of Tsong Khapa. On the right wall, an image of Sakyamuni with his two chiefs by his side, and on the left wall, the picture of the 35 Confessional Buddhas is displayed.

Zinchun

A ladder inside the hall leads to Zinchun (Head Lama’s room), which contains images of monks, thankas, the consort of Avalokitesvara, and the 21 manifestations of the White Tara. The Gonkhang was built in 1983 after the gompa underwent renovation and was completed after a year. Several thankas of the divinities are displayed on the walls of the Gonkhang. 

Festivals in Likir Monastery

Every year the Dosmochey Festival is celebrated with great vigor from the 27th to the 29th day of the 12th month of the Tibetan calendar. During the festival, votive offerings are made, and also the monks perform colorful masked dances as a part of the ritual. Besides, the festival attracts many visitors, both tourists, and locals.

References

Google Scholar

The post Likir Monastery – Facts, History and Complete Travel Guide appeared first on Ladakh.

Earlier, Shey was the summer capital of Ladakh. The original palace of Lhachen Palgyigon (King of Ladakh) was built in this village in the 10th century. In the 16th century, Mirza Muhammad Haider Dughlat (Mughal noble) stayed there during his annexation of Ladakh. The current Shey monastery and palace were built in 1655 under the direction of Deldan Namgyal in the memory of Sengge Namgyal below the palace.

The Shey monastery and palace is a must-visit place while in the town of Leh, Ladakh, as it has a lot to offer for all kinds of visitors. The giant statue of Shakyamuni Buddha and the scenic location of the monastery with the surrounding snowcapped mountains of Stok attracts a lot of tourists from all over the world. For this reason, the Shey monastery is famous not just for its architecture but also for the enticing views it offers from the point it is built at. One can witness the panoramic scenes of the Indus valley and Indus river up to the village of Stok. So, make sure to stop and visit this picturesque monastery on the way to the Thiksey monastery. 

Shey Monastery Travel Guide

We have compiled a detailed travel guide in this blog post for exploring the Shey Monastery in the best possible way. It will cover all the vital information, including accommodation, transport, and all the famous attractions to see in the awe-inspiring monastery.

Our travel guide will help you plan a fabulous and memorable trip if you plan a trip to Shey Monastery. Our team of trusted specialists from Ladakh offers customized tour packages at discounted prices to all our valued customers who wish to spend a fantastic vacation in Ladakh. If you have any queries about Shey Monastery, please contact us. Get the best deals to explore Leh in our Ladakh tour packages.

Highlights of Shey Monastery

• A giant copper statue of Shakyamuni Buddha with gilded gold 
• Museum on the lower floor of the monastery
• The shrine built by Sengge Namgyal
• Wall Paintings on the upper floor of the monastery
•  Shey Rupla and Shey Doo Lhoo Festivals

Itinerary Guide – How to plan your Itinerary for Shey Monastery

Planning an Itinerary for Shey monastery without an expert guide is not easy. We have built an Itinerary with our trained specialists and planned a trip to Shey monastery to share our awe-inspiring experience with you. We hope this guide will help you know all about Shey monastery to plan your itinerary easily.

Preparing for Shey Monastery Trip

We hired a taxi early in the morning and headed towards the Shey monastery. Speeding on the Leh-Manali highway, we came across many whitewashed chortens that dotted the lush green fields. The wooden structures on the nearby mountains made it evident that the region used to be entirely populated. 

Reaching the Monastery

Finally, we saw a signboard, and after a while, we stopped at the sight of the red attired Buddhist lamas climbing up the stairs along the mountain. We climbed up the zig-zag staircase amidst the green valley of Leh, Ladakh. Finally, we reached the main entrance of the three-storied monastery.

The Main Building of the Monastery

As we reached the first level of the monastery, we were amazed by the stunning views of the green landscape. We came across many prayer wheels, locked doors and oil lamps kept at the corners. There was also a large white stupa with a golden top which is supposed to be the most significant victory stupa of Ladakh. 

Several prayer stones were placed along the whitewashed walls of the monastery. While walking in the monastery, we glanced up the hill and saw some ruins of the old Shey palace, including the old walls. The wooden monastery was beautifully built with layers of mud and stone. We could see the similarity in its construction with the Leh Palace. And then, finally, we reached the main attraction of the Shey monastery.

The Shakyamuni Buddha Statue

As we entered the room, we were welcomed by the compassionate gaze of Shakyamuni Buddha. The 12-meter statue was rested in a seated position and occupied three floors of the building. A library of old manuscripts was also built on the ground floor. 

We kept on walking and reached the second floor of the monastery. The second floor of the monastery was filled with paintings of Buddha in different positions. The third floor consisted of several statues of Buddhist lamas collectively known as Arhats. 

Butter Lamp Room of the Monastery

The butter lamps lit in this room have been burning for decades now. It was a surreal experience to see so many lamps of every size and shape continuously burning. It is said that these lamps are considered as prayer and a symbol of peace and prosperity for the people. The devotees offer the oil for these lamps, and the monks of the monastery make sure that these lamps never run out of oil. 

Rock Engravings near the Monastery

As we walked out of the monastery, we saw engravings on a giant rock on the Leh-Manali Highway. The engravings from the life of Buddha looked quite impressive, and it was something that could be found only rarely.

Conclusion

The Shey monastery attracts thousands of devotees and tourists from all over the world. Visitors are welcome to visit the monastery to take in the serene atmosphere and learn about the Buddhist culture. The green meadows with the barren brown hills make a fantabulous contrast, and the snowcapped peaks in the far distance enclose the entire panorama.

So, the next time you visit Ladakh, make sure to visit the Shey palace and gompa. We hope this travel guide will help you plan an unforgettable trip with your family and friends.

Best time to visit Shey monastery

The best time to visit the Shey monastery is from May to October. The weather is most favorable for traveling during these months. However, if you want to attend the celebration of Shey festivals like “Shey Doo Lhoo” and “Shey Rhupla,” the perfect time to visit would be July and August. 

The roads to Ladakh via Manali and Srinagar remain closed from November to April because of heavy rain and snowfall. Therefore traveling by air is the only option to reach Ladakh and then to Shey monastery during the winter months.

Hence, the best time to travel to Shey monastery is the best time to visit Ladakh. You can read the Best time to visit Ladakh for detailed information on this topic.

How to reach Shey Monastery

The easiest way to reach Shey monastery is to arrive in Leh via flight and then hire a taxi or a cab to reach Shey monastery. The monastery is also well connected through local buses, so you can use other forms of public transport to reach the Shey monastery.

• Flight: Leh Airport – Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport is the nearest airport well connected with some of the major airports in India. You can hire a cab from the airport to reach your hotel in Leh and then plan a day trip from Leh to Shey monastery and some other nearby attractions.
• Cabs / Bus: The local buses and cabs function well in the Ladakh region during the summer months. You can hire a cab and take the road leading to Karu on the Leh -Manali Highway. It will take around 20-25 minutes to reach the Shey monastery from Leh.
• Train: Jammu Tawi is the nearest major railway station from Leh. You can hire a cab from the railway station to reach Leh. It is a 3-day journey if you stop overnight at Srinagar and Kargil. After reaching Leh, you can hire a cab to reach the Shey monastery, as mentioned above.

If you want to get detailed information, look at this blog post, How to Reach Ladakh.

Shey Palace Timings and Entry Fee

The opening hours of the palace and monastery are from 6 am to 1 pm and 1:30 to 6 pm every day, including national holidays and Sundays. The monastery remains closed for 15 minutes between 4 to 4:15 for a break. 

The entry fee for the Shey monastery is Rs 30 per person. The fee is the same for both Indians as well as foreign nationals. Free parking lots are also available for visitors.

Accommodation at Shey Monastery

You can explore the nearby tourist places like Thiksey Monastery, Stakna Monastery, and other attractions on the same day. It is recommended to start early morning and return to your hotel in Leh by evening. 

There are other stay options in Shey, such as guesthouses and hotels. So, you can either choose to stay in the Shey village or return to Leh. You can also stay at Hemis or Thiksey monastery, close to the Shey monastery.

Food Options at Shey Monastery

There are many small restaurants along the highway and near the Shey monastery. But do not forget to carry your water bottle and some snacks from Leh. You can also try eating in Punjabi Dhabas, which offer delicious local Tibetan food, including Thukpa and momos.

Shey Monastery Travel Tips

• Rest on the first day of your arrival for better acclimatization in Leh
• Apply good sunscreen to protect your skin from harmful UV radiation.
• You should be aware of the symptoms of Acute Mountain Sickness as it may affect even the most experienced travelers. Extreme climatic conditions can be challenging, so be prepared before commencing your journey.
• Do not forget to wear your sunglasses on sunny days.
• Bring some warm clothes and a down jacket if you plan to visit during the winter months. If you want to know essential items for the Leh, Ladakh trip, read our blog post Things to Carry for Ladakh Trip.
• Special permission is needed to visit the Shey monastery. But you can enjoy the surrounding areas of the palace and the scenic views of the valley from Photong.
• You should wear conservative clothes and respect the rules of the monastery.
• Photography is not permissible inside the prayer hall of the monastery. It would be best to ask before clicking a picture of any monk.
• You can find petrol pumps in Leh and Karu, which remain fully functional in the winter season as well.
• Subscribe for a BSNL, Airtel, or Jio postpaid number because other networks do not receive signals in Leh. As the monastery is situated near Leh, these networks will work fine at Shey also.
• Book your flight tickets early, as the prices would hike during the peak season in Ladakh.
• Google flights have a fantastic feature of the flight price alert system. So, search for your flight on google flights and then subscribe for the alert.

Please read the World health organization’s travel advice before traveling anywhere.

Read Indian Government travel guidelines.

History of Shey Monastery

Shey is a small village that was initially founded as the old capital of Ladakh. In 1842, the Dogras invaded Ladakh, and as a result, the Namgyals (Royal Family of Ladakh) abandoned the Shey palace and fled to Stok. They began to live on the opposite side of the Indus river and made it their permanent residence. It is said that the fort above the present palace at Shey belonged to this same period of annexation.

Later, when Leh became the capital of Ladakh, it, however, did not reduce the importance of Shey. Shey was turned into the summer capital, and it became a mandatory requirement of the Namgyal kings to father their heir apparent in Shey.

Geography of Shey monastery

The Shey monastery is located 15 kilometers south of the modern capital of Ladakh, Leh. It is situated on an average elevation of 3,415 meters (11,204 ft) and is surrounded by the Zanskar ranges and the Indus river valley. 

The monastery is built in the upper Indus valley, and many stupas, rock carvings, and monasteries can be seen on the way. One can also reach the monastery by trekking 4 kilometers from Thiksey. This path has the most extensive chorten fields of Ladakh, with numerous shrines of different sizes scattered across the dry landscape.

The monastery’s inner sanctum is usually closed, and special permission is required to visit the monastery because only one lama lives here. On the opposite side of the Shey Palace, a hotel for tourists is surrounded by a beautiful garden full of flowers.

The Architecture of Shey Monastery

The main attraction of the Shey monastery is the Shakyamuni Buddha which is a 32 ft (12 meters) statue covering almost three floors of the building. It is said to be the second-largest statue of Buddha in Ladakh. As seen in the gompa, the statue of Buddha is on three levels. 

1. The first level shows a mural of Shambunath and enormous feet of Buddha, the soles of which are pointed upwards.
2. The second level shows the murals of Buddha in different positions.
3. The third level is blackened by the soot of the butter lamps that keep burning eternally at the altar.

Installation of the statue at the monastery

The giant statue of Buddha was cast in smaller parts in Leh at a place called Zanstin, meaning “copper and hammer.” The statue was made of copper collected from some villages of Zanskar valley and Lingshet mines. The plates made from the copper blocks were obtained by hammering them on the rocks. 

At first, it was built in smaller parts and then transferred to the palace for easy installation. It is said that the copper plates of the statue in the monastery were gilded with 5 kilograms of gold.

Shrine nearby Shey Monastery

Another little shine is situated about 1300 ft (400 meters) from the palace. It was built by Sengge Namgyal and houses another statue of Shakyamuni Buddha in a sitting position. Several pictures and murals similar to the palace are kept in this shrine. 

It is said that both the Shakyamuni Buddha statues were designed by a Nepalese sculptor, namely Sanga Zargar Wanduk. He was brought here by Gyal Khatun (Sengge’s mother) to build both the statues. Other artisans also assisted him, such as Gamani Jal Shering, Nakbiri, and Paldana Shering Gyaso. These craftsmen reportedly lived in the Chilling village and are now known for their artisanship in traditional silverware.

The shrine also depicts murals of 16 Arhats, original disciples of the Buddha, with some famous teachers like Tsong Khapa, Padmasambhava, and Atisa. Two small tantric shrines are built near this shrine. 

Near this shrine, carvings are made on the rock spurs, which can be seen on the way to the palace. These rock carvings are of the Dhyani Buddhas. One of the carvings is enormous and built close to the palace, and the rest are located near a chorten. There are many chortens built in the east of the palace also.

Photong

At the edge of the valley, the official residence of the lama called photong is built, which offers panoramic views of the Indus valley. The palace is smaller than the Leh palace and looks shabby nowadays. It is situated below the discarded fort and has a golden chorten tower. However, it has gained importance due to the Buddha being glorified in the monastery. 

Place of worship 

Inside the shrine, several butter lamps are lit that burn constantly over an entire year and are replaced to continue the flame without interference. This practice represents the purity and divinity of the shrine. 

The offerings placed for worship in front of deities in the sanctum include jewels, grains, and holy signs with mantras inscribed on them.

Festivals in Shey Monastery

Every year two seasonal festivals are celebrated in the Shey monastery.

1. Shey Doo Lhoo: The “Shey Doo Lhoo” marks the beginning of the sowing season in Ladakh. It is celebrated for two days in July and August, corresponding to the 26th and 27th of the first month of the Tibetan calendar. The monks perform special rituals and religious rites in the main monastery.
   On this occasion, an oracle reader visits the monastery while riding on horseback. He conducts a three-day prayer and then goes into a deep hypnotic trance. It is said that the oracle reader gives prophecies in this hypnotic state.
2. Shey Rhupla: The second festival, known as “Shey Rhupla,” marks the harvesting season in Ladakh. During this festival, the farmers offer the first fruits of corn in the monastery. A special dance called “Rhupla Dance” is performed by two men in tiger costumes. It is believed that women without children offer prayers to Buddha, seeking his blessings to bear children.

Funeral Ground

A funeral ground is located close to the palace. On this ground, the dead person is carried in a sedan chair after the people at home perform the last rites. As the prayers are chanted, the sedan chair is placed in a tubular walled oven. Later, the ashes of the dead are scattered in the river.

Reference

https://scholar.google.com/scholar?hl=en&as_sdt=0%2C5&q=shey+palace+ladakh&btnG=

The post Shey Palace & Monastery – Facts, History and Complete Travel Guide appeared first on Ladakh.

Located at an altitude of 11,800 ft (3,600 m), the Stakna monastery offers a fantastic view of Hemis monastery and its nearby surroundings. The gompa is home to 30 Buddhist monks. It is the only Bhutanese Drukpa monastery in Ladakh managed by Je Khenpo in Bhutan. The other Drukpa monasteries in Ladakh belonging to the Gyalwang Drukpa’s school are based at Hemis. The split in the Drukpa lineage occurred in the 17th century when a dispute arose over the true reincarnation of the 4th Gyalwang Drukpa.

Stakna Monastery Travel Guide

We have compiled a comprehensive travel guide in this blog post for exploring the Stakna Monastery in the best possible way. It will cover all the vital information, including accommodation, transport, and all the famous nearby attractions to see while visiting the breathtaking monastery.

If you are planning a trip to Stakna Monastery, our travel guide will help you plan a fantastic and memorable trip. Our team of dedicated specialists from Ladakh offers customized tour packages at discounted prices to all our customers who wish to spend a fabulous holiday in Ladakh. If you have any queries related to Stakna Monastery, feel free to contact us. 

Get the best deals to explore Leh and nearby attractions in our Ladakh tour packages.

Highlights of Stakna Monastery

1. Silver-painted chorten
2. Arya Avalokitesvara statue
3. Paintings and murals
4. Amazing view from the monastery rooftop

Itinerary Guide – How to plan your Itinerary for Stakna Monastery

Planning an Itinerary for the Stakna monastery without an expert guide is not an easy task. We have built an Itinerary with our experts and planned a trip to Stakna monastery to share our unforgettable experience with you. You should read it to know all about Stakna monastery to plan your itinerary easily.

Preparing for Stakna Monastery Trip

We booked a cab early in the morning and were ready for our trip to the Stakna monastery. We headed towards the Stakna monastery which is situated on the other side of Leh, Ladakh. After crossing a small bridge we reached the banks of the Indus river. The dry terrain was gone and all we could see now were lush green fields. 

While driving on the smooth roads we came across the snowcapped Stok ranges, yellow mustard fields, and towering poplar trees in the far distance. All through our journey to the monastery, we could see the Leh city nestled between the barren mountain peaks and the lush greenery. 

Reaching the Monastery

After driving for half an hour, we finally reached the monastery. The view of the monastery was a sight to behold in the backdrop of the rocky terrain. Although the monastery was not very attractive from the outside, the interiors were mesmerizing. 

The Monastery Interiors

On entering the monastery, we saw a courtyard with exquisitely painted wooden pillars. Most of the structures of the monastery were constructed with wood and adorned with sophisticated paintings. As we walked around the courtyard, we reached the main prayer hall of the monastery.

Main Prayer Hall of the Monastery

As we entered the main prayer hall of the monastery, we saw several colorful paintings of Buddhist saints. The colors used in the paintings were mostly red, blue, green, and yellow along with golden boundaries. Inside the prayer hall, there were numerous intricately carved statues, artifacts, and bells made of silver and bronze. 

The monks sat on their velvet seats while meditating and performing their prayers. Photography was not allowed inside the main prayer hall, so we walked around the hall for some time, and then the chief lama took us to another hall.

Another Prayer Hall of the Monastery

We entered the second prayer hall where some sacred rituals were being performed by the lamas. We could hear the monks chanting their prayers and the music of the drums reverberating in the entire monastery. 

After clicking some pictures of the prayer hall, we had a brief conversation with one of the monks, and then we headed towards the roof of the monastery.

Monastery Rooftop

On the rooftop of the monastery, a beautiful chorten was built. The best thing about the monastery was the scenic view of the Indus river, Stok ranges, the Indus valley, and the barren peaks as seen from the rooftop of the monastery. We could also see the famous Thiksey monastery perched on a hilltop far across the valley. 

Conclusion

No trip to Ladakh is perfect without a visit to a couple of prominent monasteries. Every year the Stakna monastery attracts a large number of tourists in Ladakh. You can enjoy the panoramic views of the Indus valley and its surrounding areas. 

The craggy landscape has been home to the people of Ladakh from ancient times. Hence, the people have built many impressive monasteries in the territory dating back to the 7th century. The monasteries are popular not just for their stunning architecture and culture, but also for the mind-blowing views they offer from the viewpoint they are built at.

If you are planning a trip to Ladakh, this article will help you make a memorable and adventurous trip. 

Best time to visit Stakna Monastery

The best time to visit the Stakna monastery is from May to October. During these months, the weather is most favorable for traveling. The roads to Ladakh are also open for travelers. 

However, if you visit Ladakh other than these months, the things to do and explore might be limited. Since the roads to Ladakh remain closed due to heavy rain and snowfall, therefore you should visit during the summer season to enjoy your fullest.

If you want to know about the local culture of Stakna monastery, you can visit the during the months of April to September. A local festival is also celebrated in the nearby village which is quite unique from the usual ceremonies. The festival includes music, mask dance, and a spectacular display of paintings, murals, handicrafts and much more.

To get more details, you can read the Best time to visit Ladakh.

How to reach Stakna Monastery

The Stakna monastery is located on the Leh-Manali Highway. The easiest way to reach the Stakna monastery is to arrive in Leh via flight and then hire a taxi or cab to reach the monastery. Read how to reach Ladakh to know the most convenient way to reach Leh. Although the gompa is well connected through buses, so you can also use other forms of public transport to reach the monastery.

• Flight: The Leh airport is well connected with some airports in India. You can hire a taxi to reach the hotel and then make a day trip from Leh to Stakna monastery along with other nearby monasteries.
• Cabs: You can take a cab from Leh and take the road leading to Karu. It will take you around 40 minutes to reach the monastery via cabs.
• Train: The nearest railway station from Stakna monastery is the Jammu Tawi railway station which is located at a distance of 812 kilometers from Leh. You can hire a taxi from the railway station to reach Leh. After reaching Leh, you can travel to Stakna monastery as mentioned above.

Accommodation and Food Options near Stakna Monastery

It is advisable to leave from your hotel in Leh early morning and return by evening. During your stay in Leh, you can visit the local tourist places nearby such as Thiksey monastery, Shey monastery, and much more. You can also stay at Hemis monastery or Shey monastery which are nearby Stakna monastery.

There are no arrangements for meals in the monastery. If you feel hungry, you can bring along some light meal, snacks, chips, or biscuits. There are several small restaurants on the Leh-Manali road where you can stop off and eat.

Timings and Entry fees of Stakna Monastery

Timings: The opening hours of the monastery are from 7 am to 6 pm including Sundays. The monastery remains open on all public holidays but remains closed during lunch hours (1 pm – 2 pm).

Entry Fees: The entry fee for the Stakna monastery is Rs 30 per person.

Nearby Attractions

1. Thiksey Monastery: The Thiksey monastery is around 8.4 kilometers away from the Stakna monastery.
2. Druk Padma Karpo School / Rancho School: also known as Druk White Lotus School. It is around 11 kilometers from the Stakna monastery.
3. Shey Palace: The Shey palace consists of a monastery and a palace. It is around 12 kilometers from the Stakna monastery.
4. Hemis Monastery: The Hemis monastery is situated in Hemis which is around 20 kilometers from the Stakna monastery.
5. Takthok Gompa: The Taktok gompa is a monastery in Sakti which is located approximately 27 kilometers from the Stakna monastery.

Stakna Monastery Travel Tips

Given below are a few travel tips that you should follow while you visit the Stakna monastery:

• Rest as much as possible on your first day of arrival for acclimatization.
• You should wear modest clothes while entering the monastery. Avoid wearing revealing clothes or dress in a way that would seem respectful to the monastery.
• A monastery is a religious place of worship. So, Remain calm and maintain silence inside the monastery.
• Photography is allowed in some parts of the monastery except the main prayer hall. If you wish to click pictures with a monk, you should seek their permission before doing so. 
• Avoid smoking and drinking inside the monastery.
• Apply good sunscreen to protect your skin from harmful UV rays.
• Always carry your own water bottle and refill it anytime. It will keep you hydrated and also help in saving the environment from plastic.
• You should be aware of the symptoms of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS). The lack of oxygen in the atmosphere and high altitude can be dangerous, so you need to be careful.
•  Wear sunglasses to protect yourself from high-intensity sunrays.
• Keep some distance from the statues and idols. You should also advise your child not to play and run around inside the monastery.
• Only postpaid connections work well in Ladakh. BSNL, Airtel and, Jio have a better network connection than other SIMs.
• Bring some warm clothes if you are planning to visit during the winter months. If you want to know essential items for Leh, Ladakh trip, read our blog post Things to Carry for Ladakh Trip.
• Book your flight tickets as early as possible because the prices would go higher during the peak season.
• Google flights have an amazing feature of the flight price alert system. So, find your flight on google flights and then subscribe for the alert to get maximum benefits.

Please read the World health organization’s travel advice, before traveling anywhere.

Read Indian Government travel guidelines

Other Essential Information

• History
• Architecture

History of Stakna Monastery

In the 16th century, Chosje Jamyang Palker, a Bhutanese scholar and saint, came to Leh to establish a monastery. There are several other sister monasteries of the Stakna monastery, of which three are situated in the Zanskar valley.

Architecture of Stakna Monastery

The structure of the Stakna monastery closely resembles Tibetan architecture. Just like other monasteries, there is a huge assembly hall. The walls of the hall are adorned with the paintings and murals of Amchi, Tsephakamad, and Sakyamuni. At the same time, one can witness a 7 ft tall chorten on the right side of the courtyard. It portrays a magnificent figure of Buddha along with some notes. 

Several paintings of Padma Sambhava, Bodhisattvas, and Tsong-san-gompa are displayed parallel to the hall giving a mesmerizing glamour to the monastery. A glorious marble statue of Avalokitesvara is placed in the heart of the monastery which is considered to be brought from Kamrup in Assam. Also, a stuffed Lhasa Apso is kept in the center of the courtyard which is believed to be the favorite pet of the monks in the monastery a long time back.

References

Google Scholar

The post Stakna Monastery – Facts, History and Complete Travel Guide appeared first on Ladakh.

Located at an altitude of 11,800 ft (3,600 m), the Thiksey monastery is a twelve-story building. It has many elements of Buddhist art such as thangkas, stupas, wall paintings, statues, and swords. The Maitreya Temple is one of the most popular attractions in the monastery. The temple houses a 15 meter (49 ft) tall statue of Maitreya Buddha which is one of the largest such statues covering two floors of the building.

The unique location with the surrounding snow-clad mountains attracts thousands of tourists from all over the world. The mixture of different Buddhist sects, the fusion of contemporary architecture and craftsmanship, and the presence of a serene environment add to the overall beauty. For this reason, it is often known to be a place with breathtakingly gorgeous views and a rich cultural heritage.

Thiksey Monastery Travel Guide

We have compiled a comprehensive travel guide in this blog post for exploring the Thiksey Monastery in the best possible way. It will cover all the vital information, including accommodation, transport, and all the famous attractions to see in the breathtaking monastery.

If you are planning a trip to Thiksey Monastery, our travel guide will help you plan a fantastic and memorable trip. Our team of dedicated specialists from Ladakh offers customized tour packages at discounted prices to all our customers who wish to spend a wonderful holiday in Ladakh. If you have any queries related to Thiksey Monastery, feel free to contact us. Get the best deals to explore Leh in our Ladakh tour packages.

Highlights of the Thiksey Monastery

1. Maitreya Buddha
2. Tara Temple
3. Assembly Hall
4. Lamokhang Temple
5. Nunnery
6. Library
7. Gustor Festival
8. Rooftop

Maitreya Buddha

The Maitreya Buddha is one of the main attractions in the monastery. It was installed to commemorate the visit of the 14th Dalai Lama to the monastery in the year 1970. It contains a grand statue of Buddha made up of copper and clay and painted in gold. The statue of Buddha covers 2 stories of the building and is depicted as seated in the lotus position.

The 15 m high statue of Maitreya Buddha is the largest statue in Ladakh and it took four years to complete. It was built by local artists under their master Guru Nawang Tsering of the Central Institute of Buddhist Studies.

Tara Temple

The Tara Temple is dedicated to the goddess Tara and there are also 21 images of Goddess Tara placed in glass-covered wooden shelves. The murals in the courtyard depict the Buddha, Tsong Khapa, Palden Lhamo, Padmasambhava, and Mahakala. Also, the Chi Khang has a portrait of Buddha with his two disciples and the Yamantaka (deity). Several small shrines devoted to guardian deities including the Protector Deity of Thiksey (Cham-Spring) can be seen between the courtyard and the staircase. 

Assembly Hall

The Assembly Hall has a seat for the Dalai Lama in the center, for the Head Lama in its right and a deity is pictured on the left. At the entrance of the main prayer hall, the wall depicts murals of the Tibetan calendar with the Bhavacakra or The Wheel of Life. The wheel has images of a bird, a snake and, a pig inscribed on it that signify attachment, aversion, and ignorance. The objective of this depiction is to remind that the earthly connections should be overcome to prevent the cycle of death and rebirth and get enlightenment in life.

Next to this wall, is the main prayer room which has many painted and handwritten books. There are 225 volumes of Tengyur wrapped in silk kept on the wooden shelves of the hall. The hall also contains murals of deities such as Sitatapatra and Mahakala and Thousand-armed Avalokiteśvara with Padmasambhava. Behind the prayer hall, there is a small shrine of Buddha that contains Bodhisattvas, Maitreya to the left and, Manjusri to the right. 

Lamokhang Temple

On the top of the monastery is the Lamokhng Temple, which is a storehouse of several volumes of Buddhist scriptures including Stangyur and Kangyur. At the entrance, there are big stupas, mani walls and, a large pillar with Buddha’s teachings engraved on it. The top floor is the official residence of the incarnate Lama and only men are allowed to enter this floor.

There is a small room above the temple that is exclusively used as a study room for teaching the local boys of the village and some among them are later chosen as Lamas.

Nunnery

A Nunnery for the community of nuns is located within the boundaries of the monastery. And is administered by the Monastery Administration. Earlier, the nunneries in Ladakh were held in extremely pathetic positions, and the nuns lived in terrible conditions. In the 1990s, Thiksey received a degree of international support and attention when some awareness programs on the stature of nuns were launched in Ladakh.

Also, in 1995, the Sakyadhita Conference of Buddhist Women was held in Leh. It lead to the establishment of the Ladakh Nuns Association. The association helped in raising the status of the Buddhist nuns. And also ensured positive developments in their betterment. 

Thiksey Rinpoche, the chief lama of the Thiksey monastery was an important figure who worked vigorously for the improvement of the nuns in Ladakh. The Thiksey monastery donated land for the nunnery near Thiksey. It is the same place where the first monastery was established by Rinchen Zangpo in the tenth century.   

Nowadays, the nunnery is home to 26 nuns who have taken steps to assert their position in society by changing their usual name of “Ani” (aunt) to “Chomos” (female religious practitioners). The Dutch Foundation for Ladakhi Nuns also functions at Nyerma. It provides monetary and individual support to the Buddhist nuns of Ladakh. 

Monastery Rooftop

The rooftop of the monastery offers an amazing view of the snowcapped mountains and dry landscape.

Itinerary Guide – How to plan your Itinerary for Thiksey Monastery

Planning an Itinerary for Thiksey monastery without an expert guide is not an easy task. We have built an Itinerary with our experts and planned a trip to Thiksey monastery to share our awe-inspiring experience with you. You should read it to know all about Thiksey monastery to plan your itinerary easily.

Preparing for Thiksey Monastery Trip

We had our breakfast and booked a taxi and were on our way to Thiksey Monastery. As we were speeding through the road, we could see the clear blue sky above us that was majestically blue with tinges of white clouds touching the snowclad mountain peaks. 

At an altitude of more than 11,000 ft above sea level, it was a treat to ride on the smooth highway. As we reached the Thiksey village, we found ourselves surrounded by stupas and chortens. 

Reaching the Monastery

After driving for half an hour, we took a right turn through the valley and finally reached the monastery. As we stepped out of the car, we could see the 12 storied complexes from the foot of the hill to its apex. The residential areas on the lower floors were painted white while the prayer complexes and temples were painted red and yellow.

Entering the Monastery

The straight road took us to the colossal main gate of Thiksey monastery. The panoramic view of the monastery in the backdrop of the Indus plain was a sight to behold. We proceeded on an inclined uphill road towards the gate of the monastery and entered the monastery. There was a souvenir shop and a restaurant to our left. 

Prayer Halls of the Monastery

We climbed the staircase and entered the prayer hall and temple of the monastery. As we climbed further, we felt a bit difficult to breathe while walking. For the first time, we saw the magnificent Indus Valley unfolding before our eyes and the Indus river sparkling in the broad daylight. 

Monastery Gallery

We reached a colorful gallery with a giant rolling drum. The red-colored drum was inscribed with the holy mantra of buddhism. The walls of the gallery portrayed huge paintings of Tsongkhapa and his disciples. While climbing the unending chain of stairs, we came across several chortens and the white walls were adorned with blue and yellow floral designs. We took a stroll around it and captured the stunning valley view beyond the chorten. 

The Courtyard of the Monastery

We walked our way up to the red-yellow mansions where the main temple complexes were located. While standing in the large courtyard of the monastery we saw a beautiful arched gallery painted by colorful paintings. 

Right above this gallery, there was a similar gallery and the entrance of the courtyard was guarded by two statues of a lion. On the left, lay a remarkable gallery containing extraordinary frescos of Buddha with his disciples and at the center, a gigantic flag was tied to a tall rod.

The Maitreya Buddha Temple

Once again, we climbed the staircase that led us to a three-storied mansion named The Maitreya Buddha Temple. The entrance of the temple was built in a wooden gallery painted with floral designs and unique frescos of Asanga, Nagarjuna, Sakyamuni and, six great Indian scholars.

The 40 ft tall statue of Maitreya Buddha was painted with different colors and covered two floors of the building. The body of the statue is beautifully studded with valuable gems and decorated with golden jewels. There were innumerable frescos of the Thiksey Rinpoche lineage to the left and right sides of the Buddha idol. 

Conclusion

To be honest, it’s hard to write everything about Thiksey Monastery in just one article. The history, culture and, serenity of the monastery is happy memory to all those who visit. The views from various sides of the monastery will take your breath away, and we can assure you this!

Best time to visit Thiksey Monastery

The best time to visit the Thiksey monastery is from May to October. During these months, the weather is pleasant and the roads to Ladakh are also open for travelers. However, you can also visit Thiksey other than these months. If you plan to visit Ladakh in winter or early summer, the things to do and explore might be limited. 

From November to May, the roads to Ladakh remain closed due to heavy rain or snowfall. Hence traveling by air is the only option to reach Ladakh and then visit the Thiksey monastery during winters.

If you want to know about the local culture of the monastery, it would be best to visit during the Gustor Festival held in October or November. But it should be noted that October marks the beginning of winter and the temperatures drop below zero degrees at night. 

To know more, you can read the Best time to visit Ladakh.

How to reach Thiksey Monastery

The easiest way to reach Thiksey monastery is to arrive in Leh on a flight and then hire a cab or taxi to Thiksey monastery. Although the monastery is well connected through buses also, so you can use other forms of public transport to reach the monastery.

• Flight: You can reach Leh by air and then reach the Thiksey monastery by taking the Leh-Manali Highway. It will take you around 30-35 minutes to reach the monastery.
• Cabs: You can take a cab from Leh which will take you to the monastery through Karu. It will take you around 40-45 minutes to reach the monastery via cabs.
• Bus: If you wish to travel by bus, you can board a bus in Choglamsar. Buses are very frequent from Leh and leave for Thiksey at an interval of every 15 minutes. It will take around half an hour to reach the monastery by bus.

If you want to know more, you can take a look at this blog post How to Reach Ladakh.

Timings and Entry fees to the Monastery

Timings: The opening hours of the monastery are from 7 am to 7 pm every day, including national holidays and Sundays. At 4 pm, the monastery remains closed for some 15 minutes for a tea break.

Entrance Fees: The entry fee for Thiksey monastery is Rs 40 per person. The fee is the same for Indians as well as foreign tourists. Free parking is also available for visitors.

Accommodation and Food Options at Thiksey Monastery

If you are interested in the local Buddhist culture, you can spend a few days exploring the monastery. You can either stay at Chamba Hotel or at the monastery, which offers neat rooms and food at a reasonable and budget-friendly price.

There are two cafes in the monastery. One is situated near the parking area and another is situated on the rooftop with fabulous views. The Chamba Hotel near the monastery also has a restaurant that offers local Tibetan food. 

Thiksey Monastery Travel Tips

Here are a few travel tips that you should follow while you visit the Thiksey monastery:

• Rest on the first day of your arrival to acclimatize yourself.
• If you plan a trip to Thiksey Monastery and want to attend the early morning monastery rituals, try to reach as early as possible
• You should wear conservative clothes and the dress should not be too revealing
• Apply good sunscreen. You will be in high-altitude areas with direct sunlight. So, protect your skin from harmful UV rays.
• Carry your own water bottle as you might feel dehydrated at such heights.
• You should be aware of the symptoms of AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness). The lack of oxygen can be dangerous on your body so, be careful.
• Wear sunglasses during sunny days
• Prepaid SIM cards of other states won’t work in Ladakh. So, before visiting Ladakh, subscribe for an Airtel, BSNL, or Jio postpaid SIM card.
• Bring some warm clothes and a jacket if you are planning to visit from October to May. If you want to know essential items for the Ladakh trip, read our blog post Things to Carry for Ladakh Trip
• Silence should be maintained within the monastery and carrying pets inside the monastery is prohibited.
• Photography is allowed inside the monastery but the flashlights should be switched off.
• If you wish to know more about the monastery, you can contact the monks, who would guide you through the monastery and also explain the architecture of the monastery.
• Book your flight tickets early, as the prices would go higher during the peak season.
• Google flights have a fantastic feature of the flight price alert system. So, find your flight on google flights and then subscribe for the alert.

Please read the World health organization’s travel advice, before traveling anywhere.

Read Indian Government travel guidelines.

Other Essential Information

• History
• Architecture
• Festivals of Thiksey Monastery

History

The history of Thiksey Monastery is linked to the introduction of the Gelugpa or Yellow Hat order in Ladakh. This introduction was started by Tsongkhapa (a reformer). To propagate the teachings of the Gelugpa order, he sent his six disciples to the secluded regions of Tibet. Tsongkhapa also gave a statue of Amitayus to one of his disciples, Jangsem Sherap Zangpo. And directed him to meet the King of Ladakh and seek his help in the propagation of Buddhism. 

The King had already heard of Tsongkhapa and his reforms. After receiving the gifts, the King gave orders to help Sherab Zangpo establish a monastery of the Gelugpa order in Ladakh. Therefore in 1433, Jangsem Sherab Zangpo founded a small monastery in the north of Indus called Lhakhang Serpo, or ” Yellow Temple.” Initially, there were only a few lamas who embraced the Gelug order but later due to his constant efforts, some of his disciples became renowned figures.

Setting up of the Monastery in Thiksey

Later, in the mid 15th century, Palden Zangpo continued the monastic work initiated by Sherab Zangpo and decided to build a larger monastery. While choosing a site for the monastery, an unusual event occurred that eventually led to the setting up of the monastery at Thiksey. 

According to a popular legend, after performing the sacred rituals at Stagmo Temple, Palden Zangpo and Sherab Zangpo took the torma offerings to dispose of them down the valley. As soon as they reached the spot, two crows appeared suddenly and snatched the ceremonial plate with the torma, and flew away. The disciples searched for the torma and found it placed on the other side of the hill above Thiksey village. Palden Zangpo interpreted this mystical event as a divine directive to build a monastery in Thiksey to propagate the teachings of the Gelugpa order.

The new Thicksey Monastery

The new Thiksey monastery was built a few kilometers away from Stagmo, on a hill above the Thiksey village. It is believed to have been built on the site of a prior Kadam establishment located about 7 kilometers to the north. Rinchen Zangpo or “Mahaguru” is known to have built the Lakhang Nyerma (Temple) at Thiksey that is dedicated to Dorje Chenmo (protector). 

The Thiksey monastery is one of the most prominent monasteries in Ladakh, second only to the Hemis monastery, supervising many other monasteries in the region such as Stok, Diskit, Likir, and Spituk. Subsequently, some 25 villages got linked to the monastery and it came to control 1,327 acres of land. In 1,770, the Lama of Hanle Monastery directed his elder son to inherit the throne of Ladakh while other princes should serve as Lamas at the Thiksey Monastery.

Architecture

The architecture of the Thiksey monastery relatively resembles the Potala Palace in Tibet, the previous official seat of Dalai Lama and hence also known as “Mini Potala.” It is located on a hill slope and starting from the base to the top of the hill, the buildings of different heights are built according to their importance.

At the entrance, there is a statue of the Tibetan Deity, and at the top of the complex, there is a stupa (chorten). The monastery has a courtyard from where the steps lead to the main gompa that is 12 stories in height. It has two main chambers and houses 60 lamas. 

The monastery was constructed as a fort monastery in Tibetan pattern and was painted in ochre, white and red. It offers splendid views across the Indus Valley, the royal palace of Stok (to the south), the gompa at Matho (to the east), and the former royal palace at Shey.

Festivals

The annual festival held in the Thiksey monastery is known as Thiksey Gustor. It is a two-day event and is one of the most popular festivals in Ladakh. It is either held in the month of October or November. Since the festival is based on Tibetan Lunar Calendar, therefore the exact dates of the Gustor festival vary each year. 

In Tibetan, the word Gustor means ” Sacrifice of the 9th day” and this day is celebrated as the victory of good over evil. The Gustor Festival is also held in several other monasteries in Ladakh but the one celebrated in the Thiksey monastery is called Thiksey Gustor. During the festival, sacred dances such as Cham Dance (Mask Dance) are performed by the traditional black hat dancers.

The Thiksey Gustor starts with the preparation of the sacrificial cake known as Torma signifying an evil force or entity. One of the most important ceremonies of the festival is the enactment of the assassination of King Lang Darma, who ruled Tibet from 838 CE to 841 CE. It is said that he was an evil king and was possessed by demons. 

The re-enactment of the assassination is named Argham Ceremony. During the ceremony, an effigy of King Lang Darma is made, and after the completion of rituals, the effigy is burnt to mark the victory of good over evil. 

References

• Google Scholar

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