Famous Monasteries of Leh-Ladakh

(courtsey: Ladakh tour packages from www.yatra.com)

Likir Monastery

• Established in 1065 by Lama Duwang Chosje.

• Houses a school where children are taught Hindi, Sanskrit and English.

• Sacred dances event of Dosmochey is held here every year.

• Likir once used to be on the now abandoned trade route.

• Features 75ft statue of Maiterya.

Diskit Gompa Monastery

• It is one of the most important Gompas (monasteries) of Leh and Ladakh.

• Built in 14th century on Shyok River bank.

• Located in the famous Nubra Valley.

• Famed for Festival of Scapegoat.• Tibetan Support Group runs a

school for children here.

The Dome of Peace(Shanti Stupa)

• This white domed landmark of Buddhism bears a splendid look.

• It was constructed with cooperation of the Japanese monks in 1991.

• Reliefs are made with varied colors and depict life of Buddha.

• Prime destination of many a Leh Ladakh tour packages.

Tsemo Gompa Monastery

• Construction of this monastery dates back to the 15th century.

• Was built by the Namgyal king of those times.

• Has a big idol of Maiterya which is believed to be made in Gold.

• Manuscripts and frescos of monastery are its historic treasures.

• Close to the Shanti Stupa.

Chemrey Gompa Monastery

• Believed to have been built in the medieval times, in 1660s.

• It is important for having the statue of Lord Padmasambhav, the Buddhist monk who is revered in this part of the world.

• Was dedicated to the Namgyal kings.

Lamayuru Monastery

• Built by Rinchen Zangpo, the famous monastery builder of the region.

• Famous for the Mask Dance which is held twice in a year.

• Famous tourist attraction for its colorful dance festivals.

Hemis Monastery and the Mask Dance

• First constructed in the 11th century, and more recently in 1672.

• Mask Dance performed here as well. Draws tourists for its colorful exhibition amidst mountains.

Other Must-sees

The Leh Palace

• Built by a Namgyal king in 17th century.

• 9 storey high, now in ruins.• Leh Palace also has a museum.• Thangkas, dresses and other

artefacts are kept here.

The Magnet Hill

Basically an optical illusion which makes people believe that there is a steep descend due to the surroundings when, actually, the slope gradient is gentle.

Located 30 kms from Leh, on the Leh-Kargil-Srinagar route.

Perched at 11000 feet above sea level.

Tso Moriri Lake

• This is a Wetland Conservation Reserve

• Changthang plateau springs and snow melt feed its waters.

• Located in eastern Ladakh.

Pangong Lake

This is situated at a height of about 14500 feet and is a brackish water lake. It lies in the region of Line of Actual Control so an Inner Line Permit is required to visit it.

The Prayer Flags

These flags are no ordinary pieces of paper but hold the hopes of the natives of Leh and Ladakh that God will listen to their prayers. These flags, like the monasteries, bring out the spiritual side of the lives of the people. Ask your wish when you go there and tie a flag !

Gurudwara Pather Sahib

There is a legend that the boulder that was thrown from hill top on the meditating Guru Nanak Dev got melted into wax on touching his back. The demon kicked the molten boulder with his foot which got stuck in it. Demon apologized to the Guru for his acts and became benevolent.

Finalise your Leh-Ladakh tour. Check the packages here:

http://www.yatra.com/india-tour-packages/holidays-in-ladakh

Thank You !