5 Must Visit Beautiful Monasteries In Ladakh

Nestled amidst the grandeur of its surroundings, Ladakh stands as a testament to serenity, a striking departure from the bustling cities of India. Renowned as a unique Union Territory, it captivates travelers worldwide with its distinctive cultural tapestry, notably celebrated through expansive motorcycling tours.

Beyond its awe-inspiring lakes, expansive vistas, and untamed natural allure, Ladakh beckons with a tranquility that resonates deeply. The region's monasteries exude an aura of calm and contemplation, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in serenity. Travel operators have increasingly spotlighted Leh-Ladakh holiday packages, guiding tourists to these havens of peace.

Ladakh shelters some of the oldest and most exquisite Buddhist monasteries, ensconced amidst the rugged Kunlun and Himalayan mountain ranges. The prayer flags adorning these sanctuaries are a ubiquitous sight, believed to carry prayers as they flutter in the wind, weaving a tapestry of spirituality across the breathtaking landscapes.

# Thiksey Monastery

The Thiksey Monastery is considered one of the most beautiful Buddhist monasteries in Ladakh. This monastery resembles the famous Potala Palace in Tibet which is located in the famous city of Lhasa. This monastery has 12 floors and it accommodates around 500 monks who live there. This monastery is popularly known as ‘Little Potala’ because it resembles the Potala House in Tibet.

Thiksey monastery is managed by the Gelugpa Tibetan Buddhist sect which is known by the monks who wear tall yellow hats. This monastery is full of various important Buddhist texts, ornaments, paintings, and stupas, etc. These things are very precious to the Buddhist culture and its tradition. It represents Buddha’s teachings in various forms of expression.

One of the most unique features of the Thiksey monastery is the huge Buddha statue which stands at the height of around 50 feet. It is one of the most popular Buddha statues in Ladakh. Thiksey Monastery is also known as ‘Thiksey Gompa’ and was built in the year 1430.

# Hemis Monastery

Hemis Monastery can be reached by traveling around 50 kilometers away from the city of Leh. The monastery was built in the year of 1630. This monastery is dedicated to Naropa, who is considered as one of the enlightened Buddhist masters. Decorated by the prayer flags, this monastery is one of the most famous monasteries in Ladakh.

The Hemis Monastery is dedicated to the Drukpa Buddhist community who maintains and manages the day-to-day workings of the monastery. This monastery houses many of the ancient relics, Thangka paintings, and gold and silver stupas because of which it is considered to be one of the richest Buddhist monasteries in India.

# Alchi Monastery

Alchi Choskor Monastery is one of the most popular monasteries in Ladakh full of ancient sculptures, documents, books, and artifacts. This monastery is divided into three sections and is considered a learning center for Buddhist scholars.

This monastery is one of the Tibetan monasteries in Ladakh built by Rinchen Zangpo during the 12th century. Alchi monastery is considered the largest monastery in Ladakh which is built by the side of the Indus River. Alchi monastery can be reached by traveling around 70 kilometers from the main city of Leh.

# Lamayuru Monastery

The Lamayuru monastery is one of the oldest Buddhist monasteries in Ladakh which is believed to be built in the 11th century. This monastery was also believed to be a place for meditation for Naropa who is considered as one of the enlightened masters in Tibetan Buddhism.

This monastery is roughly 130 kilometers away from Leh city. Lamayuru is also one of the largest and the famous monasteries in Ladakh. This monastery belongs to the Nyingma Buddhist community which is popular for wearing the long red hats. The monastery is home to around 50 monks who stay here.

# Diskit Monastery

Diskit is one of the oldest Buddhist monasteries in Ladakh which was built around the 14th century. This monastery is dedicated to the Gelugpa community of Buddhism. Diskit monastery is located at the height of around 3100 meters overlooking the gorgeous Nubra valley. of Tibetan Buddhism which is located in the beautiful Nubra Valley.

This Tibetan monastery in Ladakh is famous for its Buddha statues and a large drum that is built here along with other statues of the guardian deities. The very location of this monastery brings in a sense of peace and tranquility.