Monasteries of Ladakh: 10 important must see

Leh Ladakh is home to numerous monasteries, also known as gompas, which are an integral part of the region’s Buddhist culture. Here are 10 must-visit monasteries in Leh Ladakh:

1. Thiksey Monastery in Ladakh:

Located 18 km east of Leh, Thiksey Monastery is one of the most famous monasteries in Ladakh. It’s a 12-story complex that houses over 100 monks and features a beautiful temple, a museum, and a library.

2. Hemis Monastery:

Situated 45 km south of Leh, Hemis Monastery is one of the largest and most famous monasteries in Ladakh. It’s a 17th-century complex that’s home to over 200 monks and features a stunning temple, a museum, and a beautiful garden.

3. Stok Monastery:

Located 15 km south of Leh, Stok Monastery is a 14th-century complex that houses over 30 monks. It’s known for its beautiful temple, a museum, and a library that contains rare manuscripts.

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4. Shanti Stupa:

Located on the hilltop overlooking Leh, Shanti Stupa is a beautiful white stupa that offers stunning views of the city. It’s a symbol of world peace and is built by the Japanese Buddhist organization.

5. Druk Padma Shanavari Gonpa:

Located 15 km west of Leh, Druk Padma Shanavari Gonpa is a unique monastery that’s home to over 100 monks from Bhutan and India. It’s known for its beautiful temple and stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

6. Sankar Monastery:

Located 23 km north of Leh, Sankar Monastery is a 16th-century complex that houses over 30 monks. It’s known for its beautiful temple and stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

7. Rizong Gompa:

Located 71 km north of Leh, Rizong Gompa is a remote monastery that’s home to over 100 monks. It’s known for its beautiful temple and stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

8. Yarab Tso Lake:

Located 60 km south of Leh, Yarab Tso Lake is a beautiful lake surrounded by towering mountains and monasteries. It’s home to over 100 monks who live in the nearby monasteries.

9. Lamayuru Monastery:

Located 120 km west of Leh, Lamayuru Monastery is one of the oldest and most famous monasteries in Ladakh. It’s known for its beautiful temple and stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

10. Korzok Monastery:

Located 50 km south of Leh, Korzok Monastery is a remote monastery that’s home to over 100 monks. It’s known for its beautiful temple and stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Remember to respect the local culture and traditions when visiting these monasteries. Dress modestly, remove your shoes when entering the temple, and avoid photography inside the temple or sacred areas.