Breathtaking Monasteries of Ladakh

Ladakh is often called the land of high passes, but it is equally the land of monasteries. Perched on rocky outcrops and overlooking dramatic valleys, these gompas are both spiritual centres and architectural marvels.

**Thiksey Monastery** is perhaps the most iconic, rising in terraced white-and-maroon layers above the Indus Valley. Its twelve-storey complex houses a towering Maitreya Buddha statue and offers sweeping views at sunrise.

**Hemis Monastery**, the largest in Ladakh, is famous for its annual festival of masked dances, held in June. Its museum preserves a remarkable collection of thangkas and artefacts.

**Diskit Monastery** in the Nubra Valley is unmissable not just for its ancient Buddha statue overlooking the sand dunes, but also for the journey to reach it — across the high Khardung La pass.

**Lamayuru Monastery**, one of the oldest in the region, sits in a moonscape valley that looks almost otherworldly, while **Alchi Monastery** houses some of the finest Buddhist wall paintings in the Himalayas.

Visiting these monasteries is a highlight of any Ladakh journey. Pair your monastery visits with Pangong Lake and Nubra Valley for the complete Ladakh experience, and let Aransh Holidays plan the route for you.