MonasteryVisits
Explore ancient Buddhist monasteries perched on dramatic cliffsides, where monks have practiced meditation for over a thousand years. These living museums preserve Ladakh's rich spiritual heritage.
Monasteries
30+
Oldest
11th Century
Traditions
4 Schools
Living Temples of Buddhism
Ladakh's monasteries (gompas) are not just architectural marvels—they are active centers of Buddhist learning and practice. Many date back over a millennium, housing priceless artifacts, ancient manuscripts, and centuries of accumulated spiritual wisdom. Perched dramatically on cliff faces and mountain tops, they offer breathtaking views and a profound sense of peace.
Must-Visit Monasteries
The most significant monasteries in Ladakh
Hemis Monastery
45 km from Leh • 3,670 m
The largest and wealthiest monastery in Ladakh, famous for its annual Hemis Festival featuring colorful masked dances. Houses a giant Thangka displayed once every 12 years.
Thiksey Monastery
19 km from Leh • 3,600 m
Resembling the Potala Palace in Lhasa, this 12-story monastery offers stunning architecture and morning prayers at 6 AM. Home to a 15-meter Maitreya Buddha statue.
Diskit Monastery
Nubra Valley • 3,144 m
The oldest and largest monastery in Nubra Valley, featuring a 32-meter tall Maitreya Buddha statue overlooking the valley and sand dunes.
More Monasteries to Explore
Each monastery offers unique spiritual and cultural experiences
Lamayuru Monastery
11th Century
127 km from Leh • 3,510 m
One of the oldest monasteries in Ladakh, set against the dramatic 'Moonland' landscape. Known for its annual mask dance festival and cave meditation chambers.
Alchi Monastery
11th Century
70 km from Leh • 3,100 m
A UNESCO World Heritage site candidate, famous for its unique Kashmiri-influenced murals and wood carvings. One of the oldest monasteries in Ladakh with rare artistic treasures.
Spituk Monastery
11th Century
8 km from Leh • 3,307 m
Perched on a hilltop near Leh, offering panoramic views of the Indus Valley. Houses a famous Kali statue revealed during Gustor festival.
Shey Monastery
17th Century
15 km from Leh • 3,500 m
Once the summer palace of Ladakhi kings, featuring a magnificent 12-meter copper gilt statue of Shakyamuni Buddha, the largest of its kind in Ladakh.
Stakna Monastery
16th Century
25 km from Leh • 3,500 m
Built on a hill resembling a tiger's nose, this monastery offers spectacular views of the Indus River and surrounding mountains. Known for its peaceful atmosphere.
Phyang Monastery
16th Century
16 km from Leh • 3,500 m
Known for its impressive collection of Buddhist art, including 900-year-old Thangkas and ancient weapons. Hosts the vibrant Phyang Tsedup festival.
Likir Monastery
11th Century
62 km from Leh • 3,700 m
Home to a giant 25-meter Maitreya Buddha statue visible from miles away. Features an excellent museum and traditional monk school.
Rizong Monastery
19th Century
73 km from Leh • 3,500 m
Known as the 'Paradise of Meditation', this remote monastery is famous for its strict discipline and beautiful apricot orchards. One of the most pristine monasteries in Ladakh.
Takthok Monastery
16th Century
46 km from Leh • 3,800 m
The only Nyingma (Red Hat) monastery in Ladakh, built around a cave where Guru Padmasambhava is said to have meditated. Known for its unique rock ceiling.
Visiting Guidelines
Respectful practices for monastery visits
Timing
Visit early morning (6-8 AM) for prayers, or afternoon for quiet exploration
Dress Code
Modest clothing covering shoulders and knees. Remove shoes before entering
Photography
Ask permission before photographing monks. Some areas prohibit cameras
Silence
Maintain quiet and respectful behavior, especially during prayers
Circumambulation
Walk clockwise around stupas, prayer wheels, and sacred objects
Donations
Small donations help maintain these ancient structures
Festival Calendar
Plan your visit around these vibrant monastery festivals
Hemis Festival
Hemis Monastery
The biggest monastic festival in Ladakh with masked dances
Spituk Gustor
Spituk Monastery
Two-day festival featuring sacred mask dances
Phyang Tsedup
Phyang Monastery
Display of sacred Thangkas and mask dances
Yuru Kabgyat
Lamayuru Monastery
Ancient mask dance festival in moonland setting
Thiksey Gustor
Thiksey Monastery
Colorful festival with traditional performances
Diskit Festival
Diskit Monastery
Annual celebration in Nubra Valley
Buddhist Traditions in Ladakh
Different schools of Tibetan Buddhism
Gelugpa (Yellow Hat)
Founded by: Tsongkhapa
Emphasizes monastic discipline and philosophical study
Monasteries: Thiksey, Spituk, Diskit, Likir
Drukpa Kagyu
Founded by: Tsangpa Gyare
Known for tantric practices and meditation
Monasteries: Hemis, Stakna, Shey
Drikung Kagyu
Founded by: Jigten Sumgön
Focuses on Phowa and meditation practices
Monasteries: Lamayuru, Phyang
Nyingma (Red Hat)
Founded by: Padmasambhava
Oldest school, emphasizes Dzogchen teachings
Monasteries: Takthok
Related Activities
Combine monastery visits with other experiences
Explore Ladakh's Spiritual Heritage
Plan your monastery tour and experience centuries of Buddhist tradition.