Shey Monastery
Situated 15 km from Leh, Shey lies along the route to Thiksey Monastery and is accessible via a scenic trek from Thiksey spanning 4 km, adorned with whitewashed chortens. Renowned for its 39 ft tall Shakyamuni Buddha statue crafted from gold and copper, this statue spans three storeys within the monastery. Shey is host to two annual festivals — Shey Doo Lhoo, signifying the onset of the sowing season, and Shey Rupla, marking the harvesting season.
Alchi Monastery
Established in the 10th century by the renowned scholar Rinchen Zangpo, Alchi Monastery stands out as a monastic complex. What sets it apart is its unique location on flat ground, a departure from the hilltop setting common in other Ladakhi monasteries. The complex includes the Assembly Hall (Dukhang), Sumtseg, Temple of Manjushri or Jampe Lhakhang, Translator’s Temple (Lotsawa Lhakhang), and a new addition called Lhakhang Soma. Of particular note is Sumtseg, famed for its 2-storey high statue of the four-armed Bodhisattva. The complex is adorned with exquisite murals, carvings, and wall paintings depicting both Buddhist and Hindu artistic elements. Visitors are advised to bring a torch or flashlight as the site lacks electricity. Additionally, the monastery is surrounded by a lively market, souvenir shops, restaurants, tea stalls, and the Golden Oriole German Bakery.
Likir Monastery
Derived from the term "Lukhgil," which translates to 'coiled snake,' Likir Monastery, situated approximately 52 kilometers from Le is steeped in Buddhist lore. According to belief, the Snake King Jokpo once slumbered at Likir, and the monastery is said to be enveloped and safeguarded by the spirits of two revered serpents—Nanda and Taksako. Affiliated with the Gelugpa sect of Tibetan Buddhism, Likir Monastery was originally founded in the early 11th century by Lama Duwang Chosje. However, the current structure is a reconstruction dating back to the 18th century, following the destruction of the gompa in a fire. The primary attraction of Likir Monastery is the towering 75 ft high gold-gilded statue of Maitreya Buddha. Additionally, the annual Dosmoche festival held in February draws a multitude of visitors, both local devotees and travelers alike.
Stok Monastery
Situated 15 km from Leh, Stok Monastery holds historical significance as the former residence of Ladakh's royal family. In 1842, the Namgyals, Ladakh's rulers, sought refuge in Stok when the Dogra rulers of Jammu and Kashmir invaded the region, abandoning Shey. The present-day descendants of the royal family continue to inhabit Stok Palace. Notable among the monastery's attractions is its remarkable library housing 108 volumes of Buddha’s teachings, known as Kangyur. In recent times, a new temple featuring an image of Avalokitesvara with 1,000 arms and 11 heads has been erected. The Stok Guru Tsechu festival, celebrated in February/March, serves as a significant draw for both locals and visitors alike.
Diskit Monastery
Diskit Monastery, situated in the Nubra Valley, holds the distinction of being the largest and oldest surviving monastery in the region. Perched at an elevation exceeding 10,000 feet in the Himalayas, it offers commanding views of the flood plains of the Shyok River. Founded by Changzem Tserab Zangpo in the 14th century, the monastery is renowned for its iconic 100-foot-high statue of Maitreya Buddha. Visitors are encouraged to explore the monastery's extensive collection of murals and frescoes. For a unique experience, plan a visit in December to partake in the Dosmoche festival celebrated at the monastery. It lies at around 125 km from Leh and can be accessed via a car or local buses.
