Buddhist Monasteries in Ladakh
Travel to India > Ladakh > Buddhist Monasteries in LadakhLadakh nestles in the lap of Himalayas in the valley of Kashmir. In the basket of its valuable and beautiful belongings, it holds many Buddhist monasteries. Majority of the population follows Buddhism and the colour of Tibetan culture is dominant here. Buddhist monasteries in Ladakh add to its importance by giving a colour of religious importance to this land. These monasteries described below, are also known as 'gompas' and have scriptures, Buddhist paintings and artifacts.
Namgyal Tsemo Gompa
This gompa was built in 1430 A.D. It acts as one of the main attractions of Ladakh. This gompa was founded by King Tashi Namgyal. Namgyal Tsemo Gompa is very close to Leh Palace. Some of the ancient Buddhist Literature, arts, images of Lord Buddha and wall paintings are collected in this Gompa. Namgyal Tsemo Gompa is a high structure that has three storeyes. From this monastery, you can have the bird's eye view of the Leh town.
Hemis Gompa
It is located 45 kms from Leh to its south. This is the largest monastery in Ladakh. It was built by King Senge Nampar Gyalva.
Spituk Monastery
Spituk Monastery is about 18 kms away from Leh. This monastery belongs to Gelukpa order and was founded in the 11th century A.D. the monastery houses many artifacts and Buddhist paintings of ancient period. Its main attraction is Gustor Festival that is celebrated with pomp and show.
Lamayuru Monastery
This monastery is located 125 kms away from Leh to the west. It is also popular by the name of Swastika Monastery. The monastery was founded in the 10th century. Its annual festival which is celebrated in the second month of the Tibetan calendar attracts people all the more to this monastery.
Shey Monastery
Initially, this monastery was the summer palace of the Ladakhi kings. It is located 15 kms to the south of Leh. A gold plated 12 feet high statue of Shakya Muni Buddha is the main attraction of this monastery. An annual festival is celebrated in this monastery as well. The festival is celebrated in the first month of Tibetan calendar.
Alchi Gompa
It is the only monastery of Ladakh that is built on a level ground. It boasts of Kashmiri art and architecture. It enjoys the company of River Indus as it is located in its bank. The gompa houses numerous images of Lord Buddha.
Thiksey Monastery
It is a 12 storeyed building and houses plentiful statues, swords, ancient wall paintings and thangkas.
Likir Monastery
It was founded by Lama Duwang Chosje in 1065 A.D. it belongs to yellow Hat Sect. it is located around 62 kms west of Leh.
Shanti Stupa
It was built to encourage world peace when 2500 years of Buddhism were completed. Shanti Stupa is white domed.
Still wrapped in the blanket of mysticism, this cold desert attracts you by the shade of adventure and ample peace prevailing here. Ladakh shares its boundary with Tibet and is also known as 'little Tibet'. Buddhist monasteries in Ladakh attract thousands of visitors fascinated by Buddhism and its culture.