Ladakh: An Amalgamation of Various Religions

Buddhism is the predominant religion in Ladakh, particularly in the central and eastern regions. Its strong presence is evident through the numerous monasteries scattered throughout the area. In addition, Ladakh is one of the rare locations where Mahayana Buddhism, also known as Lamaism, is practised. The form of Buddhism practised here is a unique blend of the animistic Bon faith and Hindu tantric traditions. 

In addition to Buddhism, Islam is another major religion in Ladakh, particularly in the western region, where most residents are Shia Muslims. There is also a small Sunni Muslim population. Ladakh also has a Christian community primarily based in the town of Leh.

According to the 2011 census, the population of Ladakh is 274,289, with 46% of residents identifying as Muslims, 40% as Buddhists, 12% as Hindus, and the remaining 2% as other religions. The Buddhist population is concentrated in the area around Leh, while the majority of Muslims reside in the Kargil region.

Major Sects of Buddhism in Ladakh

• Drugpa Kagyu Sect

The Drugpa sect gained popularity in Ladakh with the arrival of Staktsang Raspa and was supported by King Singey Namgyal and his descendants. The establishment of the Hemis monastery in 1632 marked the beginning of an architectural revival in Ladakh and it remains one of the most prominent Buddhist sects in the region to this day.

• Gelugspa Sect

The Gelugspa sect took root in Ladakh during the same period as in Tibet, around the mid-15th century. Changsems Shesrab Zangpo, the chief disciple of the founder of the sect, Tsongkhapa, laid its foundations. Monasteries of this sect can be found throughout Ladakh, with Thiksey and Spituk being the most prominent. 

• Drigung Kagyu Sect

The Drigung Kagyu sect was established in Tibet in 1179 and spread to Ladakh in the next century. The main figure of the sect in Ladakh was Chosrje Danma Kunga Tagspa, who rose to prominence in the 16th century. Some prominent monasteries of the sect in Ladakh are Lamayuru, Phyang, and Shachukul.

• Saskya Sect

The Saskya sect has a limited presence in Ladakh, with the Matho Monastery being its only representation in the region.

 

• Nyingma Sect

The only monastery in Ladakh that belongs to the sect is the Takthok monastery.

Major Sects of Islam in Ladakh

• Shia Sect

The Shia branch of Islam is the most prevalent in Ladakh. It constitutes the majority of the population in the Kargil district and also has significant representation in Nubra Valley and Chuchot in central Ladakh.

• Sunni Sect

The Noorbakshi sect of Islam is present in both districts of Ladakh. Its followers are primarily descendants of Kashmiri traders who married Ladakhi women and settled in Ladakh. These descendants are known as Arghon.

• Noorbakshi Sect

The Noorbakshi sect of Islam in Ladakh traces its roots to the 15th-century arrival of Mir Shamsuddin Iraqi.