Ladakh is visited by people from all different walks of life! While some visitors are there to take in the beauty of this place, others seem to rev up their adrenaline levels! Some want to fill their lives with tender emotions, while others flock to Ladakh to seek the blessings of the Gods and cleanse their souls!
If you’re thinking of a Ladakh tour to achieve peace of mind through seeking prayers from Gods and the gods, you should visit the many monasteries located in Ladakh, which will make your wish come true! Here are a few of the holiest and religious monasteries in Ladakh that can help you ease your stress and cleanse your soul and mind taking the Ladakh tour:
1. Hemis Monastery
When you are looking for monasteries of Ladakh to visit during your Ladakh tour, this holy monastery belonging to the Brokpa sect of Buddhists is the first to entice you! Hemis Monastery, situated around 45 kilometers from the city limits of Leh, is the greatest and one of the most visited monasteries in The Land of High Passes.
The monastery was established in 1630. Hemis Monastery boasts of its beautiful architecture, spiritual spirit, old collection, and peace in every corner. The sanctuary is a holy one in its summer months from June and July and takes part in the most well-known Hemis Festival, which in itself is a celebration of celebrations, colors, and religious displays!
2. Thiksey Monastery
It is located just 9km from the center of Leh city; Thiksey Monastery is revered as the most prestigious monastery situated in Ladakh. It is situated on a hill near Thiksey hamlet and is identical to the Potala Palace in Lhasa, Tibet.
If you go to the Thiksey Monastery, you can quickly feel and witness the devotional atmosphere present within its walls. The Maitreya Temple, a collection of old Buddhist artwork, scriptures such as paintings, thangkas, and a host of other antiques, makes Thiksey Monastery a must-see monastic site in Ladakh.
3. Lamayuru Monastery
The hallowed Lamayuru Monastery, also known as the ‘Place of Liberty,’ is among Ladakh’s highly known and beloved monasteries. It is home to around 150 monks. It is a holy area where Buddhism is practised not only as a belief but also as a manner of living. It belongs to the Red Hat Buddhists.
Legends have it that Bodhisattva Madhyantak predicted the location of Lamayuru Monastery, and MadasiddhacharyaNaropa completed the construction in the 11th century. With all the structures of the sacred monastery, the ruler of Ladakh declared the enclave of religious worship as a no-arrest zone and gave it the name of ‘Place of Freedom”.
4. Phugtal Monastery
If your Ladakh trip takes you to the stunning Zanskar Valley, you should not miss the chance to explore the stunning Lungnak Valley. The Lungnak Valley is the holy Phugtal Monastery called the “Cave of Liberation because of the peace and tranquility that emanates from this.
The caverns are adorned with many caves. This sacred location is a part of Buddhists is a perfect meditative site for the lamas and various religious leaders. The monastery is a popular destination for students to study the religion of their choice, how to live, and many other things. It’s the only one in Ladakh that is accessible by foot.
5. Alchi Monastery
If you’re looking for an institution where you can learn Buddhism in the most incredible depth, you will find it with the Alchi Monastery. It is situated in the evergreen landscapes of the Alchi Hamlet in Ladakh; the religious school was established in the 12th century. It is recognized as an architectural masterpiece from the past!
Its stunning architecture and its position amidst the serene Indus River make it among the top breathtaking monasteries you can visit in Ladakh. In addition, unlike many Buddhist places located in Ladakh, Alchi Monastery is the only one sitting on a plain surface.
6. Spituk Monastery
A monastery from the 11th century in Ladakh, Spituk Monastery boasts of having the most significant number of Thangkas Buddhist Masks, Scriptures artwork, artifacts, paintings, and other items from the past. A visit to this holy place will not only assist you in achieving peace of mind or cleansing your spirit but be a great way to learn about the doctrines and lives of Lord Gautam Buddha.
It is located close to Leh, Spituk Monastery hosts an annual New Year Festival marked with great enthusiasm and enthusiasm among the people who live there. The entire holy monastery transforms into a melting pot of religious beliefs and colors as they perform the well-known “Chham Dance” or “Mask Dance” of Ladakh.
7. Samstanling Monastery
The Samstanling Monastery in Ladakh is one of these monasteries that focuses on the teachings of Lord Buddha in the most exciting ways! Decorated with intricate artwork, colorful murals, ancient scriptures, and other collections from the past, The monastery was established through Lama TsultimNima around 140 years ago.
It is regarded as one of the most remote monasteries in Ladakh, and the Samstanling Monastery is also the site of the reincarnation of Lord Buddha.
8. Rangdum Monastery
Hidden away amid scenic mountains and snow-covered peaks, the holy monastery is located on the conical hill and is considered one of the highest order religious institutions among Gelugpa Buddhists. It was built in the 18th century; the monastery serves as the home of approximately 40 monks. It can be easily accessed from Ladakh tourist destinations such as Sankoo, Panikar, and Parachik.
It’s the history or the tranquility at the Rangdum Monastery; you can be sure of a relaxing experience when you visit this sacred monastery in Ladakh! It is also well-known for its amazing construction and location.
9. Likir Monastery
Likir Monastery is much more than an educational center for the religious! It is a religious enclave where the past unfolds and instills the guests with its spirituality and aura!
The hamlet is located in a stunning area known as Likir. This monastery, built-in 1065AD by Lama duwangChosje, houses a large collection of historical Buddhist books, thangkas, and manuscripts.
10. Shey Monastery
In your quest for inner peace and tranquillity, you may visit The Shey Monastery, which is housed within the famous Shey Palace in Ladakh. Just 15 km from the outskirts of Leh city and just off the highway between Leh and Manali, this holy monastery was founded by King DeldamNamgyal in the year 1655.
The giant gold sculpture of Lord Buddha and the second-largest figure, Shakyamuni Buddha, Shey Monastery, is home to various other unique artifacts that date back to ancient times. It is awe-inspiring with vibrant frescos, murals, and Lord Buddha’s statues. It is an absolute must-see monastery of Ladakh.