the crown jewels

The Monasteries of Ladakh - Northern India Holidays

''Particularly in the early morning when monks gather for worship, there are few places on Earth more uplifting and peaceful than these monasteries set high up on this barren plateau.'' Christopher Wilmot-Sitwell

 

Why do you love the monasteries of Ladakh?

These are truly beautiful buildings many in spectacular locations. In the early morning or early evening we can usually organise access to join in meditation and prayer and, even for the non Buddhist, it is a very spiritual experience.

Hemis has the most famous festival in Tibet. It is quite a spectacle. But the silence and remoteness of the smaller monasteries is what makes Buddhism in Ladakh so elemental.

What are they?

The most famous monasteries are near to Leh. Thikse and Hemis are the most visited but the there are any number of monasteries to visit. And the further off the beaten track the less easy they are to gain access to but often the more special the experience.

Where are they?

Throughout Ladakh in the Northern State of Jammu and Kashmir.

Who’s it right for?

Anyone with a head for altitude who wants to experience some of the ancient traditions and very special communities which are so fundamental to this part of India.