Monasteries in Ladakh

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Ladakh accurately depicts and is a treasure trove of Buddhist culture and its unique traditions. One of the best things that they proudly talk about is their monasteries. Boasting intricately built monasteries, Ladakh exhibits the cultural heritage of the bygone era. Monasteries in Ladakh allow tourists to explore the enchanting and intriguingly designed monuments. Most of the gompas in Ladakh have a museum with artifacts and manuscripts on display, further enriching the spiritual journey of the visitors.

The most famous Buddhist monasteries in Ladakh are Shey Monastery, Thiksey Monastery, Hemis Monastery, Alchi Monastery, Lamayuru Monastery, Diskit Gompa, Spituk Monastery, Phugtal Gompa, Likir Monastery, Stakna Monastery, and Rangdum Monastery. Most of the monasteries in Ladakh are situated on the hilltop. Their architecture is a perfect blend of Buddhist and Tibetan shills. To better understand the monasteries in Ladakh, you can opt for a Ladakh tour package from Indian Holiday. With 34 years of expertise, our team specializes in curating customizable trips, ensuring you a stress-free Ladakh adventure.

A brief history of the Ladakh monasteries

Over the centuries, Ladakh has been shaped by various dynasties, each leaving its mark on the region’s culture, religion, and traditions. Buddhism, the dominant faith, has been a driving force in constructing these monasteries, which stand today as a testament to Ladakh’s rich heritage. Despite the challenging terrain, monks and preachers persevered, establishing monasteries now renowned as some of the best monasteries in India.

There are innumerable monasteries in Ladakh, some in ruins while others are still inhabited and run as educational and religious centers. It is no exaggeration that these gompas are a cultural and architectural delight that soothes the eyes of every visitor.

Diskit Monastery Ladakh

One of the finest monasteries in Ladakh is situated in Nubra Valley and is a top-notch attraction. The monastery is popular for Maitreya Buddha and the Dosmoche festival. Changzeb Tserab Zangpo established the monastery in the 1400s.

Timings of the monastery-7 am to 1 pm and 2 pm to 7 pm

Entry Fee- 30 INR

Distance between Diskit Monastery and Leh-116 km (approximately)

Hemis Monastery Ladakh

The Hemis Monastery, built during the reign of King Singge Namgyal, is one of the largest in Ladakh. As the monastery is home to a king, it is also amongst the wealthiest monasteries of Ladakh and Tibet. The monastery is located in Leh itself.

Timings of the monastery-8 am to 1 pm and 2 pm to 6 pm

Entry Fee-None

Distance between Hemis and Leh- 40 km (approximately)

Thiksey Monastery Ladakh

Thiksey is a Tibetan-style monastery located south of Leh on the Leh—Manali highway. It is a fabulously designed 12-story monastery on a hilltop. Visitors can enjoy a great view of the surroundings and offer their prayers to the lord. Women are not allowed in the Lamokhang Temple complex of the monastery. Moreover, there are 2 cafes in the complex itself, allowing visitors to fill their tummies.

Timings of the monastery-May to November (7 am to 7 pm). The monastery remains closed between November and April

Entry Fee- 30 INR

Distance between Thiksey and Leh- 18 km (approximately)

Alchi Monastery Ladakh

The history of Alchi Monastery dates back to between 958 and 1055. It was established by Guru Rinchen Zangpo. You cannot take pictures inside the monastery, and shoes are also not allowed.

Timings of the monastery- 10 am to 1 pm and 2 pm to 6 pm

Entry Fee- 25 INR for Indians and 50 INR for International

Distance between Alchi and Leh- 66 km (approximately)

Spituk Monastery Ladakh

Spituk Monastery is amongst the best and most beautiful monasteries of Ladakh. Its cliff-top location makes the view from the top absolutely stunning. The monastery was built by Od-de, the brother of Lha Lama Changchub Od. This huge monastery houses approximately 100 monks, and the key attraction is the giant Kali statue. The Gustor Festival is held here every year, and that’s when the statue and multiple collections of objects are displayed.

Timings of the monastery- 8 am to 1 pm

Entry Fee- 20 INR

Distance between Spituk Monastery and Leh- 8 km (approximately)

Rules and Regulations to Follow in Ladakh Monasteries

There are specific rules and regulations that you will have to follow while visiting any of the monasteries in Ladakh. Here are some common things that need to be followed:

You will have to obey all the rules and regulations related to a specific monastery.
Make sure that you are not under any influence of alcohol while visiting any monastery, as that will be disrespectful.
One should not smoke in or around the monastery because this is highly prohibited.
Clicking pictures of monks in the monastery is also forbidden and considered disrespectful. Take permission from the monks before you click their pictures.
Videography and photography are prohibited in certain areas, such as prayer halls and meditation rooms. Please follow the instructions to avoid any inconvenience.
One needs to follow specific timings that differ from monastery to monastery.