Buddhist Monastery

Hemis Monastery

The largest and wealthiest monastery in Ladakh, home to the famous Hemis Festival celebrated annually

Founded

1672 AD

Distance

45 km

Festival

June/July

About Hemis Monastery

Hemis Monastery, also known as Hemis Gompa, is a Himalayan Buddhist monastery of the Drukpa lineage, located 45 km from Leh. It is the largest monastery in Ladakh and is known for its annual Hemis Festival, which attracts tourists from around the world.

The monastery was re-established in 1672 by the Ladakhi king Sengge Namgyal. It houses a rich collection of ancient relics, including gold and silver stupas, sacred thangkas (Buddhist paintings), and a library of Tibetan-style books.

The monastery is also famous for housing a giant thangka of Guru Padmasambhava, which is displayed only once every 12 years during the special Hemis Festival. The next display is scheduled for 2028.

Highlights

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Hemis Festival

Annual masked dance festival celebrating Guru Padmasambhava's birth anniversary

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Sacred Thangkas

View ancient Buddhist paintings and the famous giant Padmasambhava thangka

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Ancient Library

Explore the collection of rare Tibetan manuscripts and Buddhist texts

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Architecture

Admire the traditional Tibetan Buddhist architecture and intricate murals

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Meditation

Experience the peaceful atmosphere and join meditation sessions

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Hemis National Park

Visit the nearby national park, home to snow leopards and wildlife

Photo Gallery

Hemis Festival

The Hemis Festival is the biggest religious festival in Ladakh, celebrated on the 10th day of the Tibetan lunar month (usually June or July). The festival commemorates the birth anniversary of Guru Padmasambhava, who is credited with spreading Buddhism in Tibet.