Guide to Ladakh 10 Most Significant Monasteries

The monasteries of Leh Ladakh, rich in Buddhist culture and heritage, attract many visitors as top tourist destinations. Despite being located in a harsh and arid desert climate, these spiritual centres continue to flourish, showcasing the deep Tibetan roots of the region. Here's a guide to the top 10 monasteries you must check out when in Ladakh.

• Hemis Monastery

Hemis is the wealthiest monastery in Ladakh. Its standout feature is its grand courtyard fronted by large wooden balconies called Rabsals, which were exclusively used by the former kingdom's aristocracy. 

The highlight of the monastery is its annual Hemis Festival, held in June or July. In addition, the monastery houses the protector deity Paldan Lhamo and an 8-meter-tall statue of Guru Padmasambhava. 

The Alchi Monastery is a stunning example of Ladakh's architectural heritage, renowned for its stunning murals and intricate woodwork. Located 60 km from Leh in the peaceful village of Alchi, the monastery is a complex of several temples constructed between the 11th and 13th centuries. 

Thiksey Monastery is the largest monastery in Central Ladakh, constructed in the 15th century. It resembles the iconic Potala Palace in Lhasa, Tibet, with its 12-story structure and numerous temples, each containing valuable collections of Buddhist scriptures, statues, stupas, swords, and thangka paintings. 

The centrepiece of the main prayer hall is a massive 40-foot statue of Lord Buddha.

The Lamayuru Monastery is renowned for its fascinating geological formations, drawing visitors from around the world. At an altitude of 3,510 meters, this ancient 11th-century monastery built by Naropa can be easily visited on a day trip from Leh. Although only five buildings of the Lamayuru Monastery remain today, it still holds their allure. 

The Diskit Monastery in the Nubra valley boasts a beauty both inside and out, with its founder Changsems Shesrab Zangpo being the same as that of the Thiksey Monastery. Adorned with vibrant murals and Tibetan paintings on its walls, the prayer hall boasts stunning fresco paintings.

The Chemrey Monastery is a beautiful complex comprised of various structures, including the Dukhang (Assembly Hall), Gonkhang (Main Temple), Lama Lakhang, which houses statues of reincarnations of Staktsang Raspa, and a one-story tall statue of Guru Padmasambhava.  

With its beautiful architectural features, including stone walls and roofs, stunning murals, and frescoes, the monastery is a popular attraction in Ladakh. It is also known for preserving 108 volumes of the Kandshur teachings of Buddhism. 

Likir Monastery, the oldest in Ladakh, is a significant attraction for Buddhists globally due to its association with the Gelugpa sect of Tibetan Buddhism. Situated in Likir Village, just 52 km from Leh, the monastery boasts a stunning 75-foot tall Maitreya Buddha statue covered in gold. Its halls are also adorned with beautiful paintings of guardian angels, thangkas, and murals

Phyang Monastery is located a mere 15-16 kilometres west of Leh and is set on a hilltop, offering breathtaking views of the surroundings. It is one of the earliest monasteries in Ladakh and boasts a 900-year-old museum that showcases a rich collection of artefacts, including idols, firearms, weapons, old thangkas, wall paintings, and murals of Mahakala. 

Spituk Monastery is a historical site located just 8 km southwest of Leh. A hill surrounds this historical site with three chapels, housing approximately 100 monks. It boasts ancient monuments, idols, statues, and religious texts.