15 Must-Visit Monasteries in Leh–Ladakh – History, Architecture & Highlights

Ladakh is a land where spirituality and nature blend in the most beautiful way. Home to centuries-old Buddhist monasteries perched on cliffs, nestled in valleys, or standing tall in vast plains—Ladakh offers visitors a chance to experience serenity, ancient wisdom, and architectural brilliance. These monasteries, also known as Gompas, are not just religious sites but also cultural centers preserving Ladakhi art, traditions, literature, and spirituality.

Here is the complete guide to the 15 Must-Visit Monasteries in Leh–Ladakh, covering their history, architecture, best visiting time, and highlights.

? 1. Hemis Monastery – The Largest & Richest Monastery in Ladakh

Founded: 1630

Location: 45 km from Leh

Famous For: Hemis Festival

Hemis Monastery, built during the rule of King Sengge Namgyal, is known for its ancient treasures, sacred thangkas, and grand annual Hemis Festival. Its architecture is a beautiful blend of Tibetan and Ladakhi designs.

Highlights:

  • 12-meter-long Thangka (unfurled every 12 years)

  • Beautiful prayer halls

  • Scenic mountain surroundings

? 2. Thiksey Monastery – Mini Potala Palace

Founded: 15th century

Location: 19 km from Leh

Thiksey is one of Ladakh’s most photographed monasteries due to its resemblance to Lhasa’s Potala Palace. Built on a hilltop, the monastery offers panoramic valley views.

Highlights:

  • 15-meter-high Maitreya Buddha statue

  • Ancient scripts & murals

  • Sunrise photography

? 3. Diskit Monastery – Home to the Giant Buddha Statue

Founded: 14th century

Location: Nubra Valley

Diskit Gompa is the oldest and largest monastery in Nubra Valley. Located on a cliff, it offers breathtaking views of Hunder Sand Dunes.

Highlights:

  • 106-foot Maitreya Buddha statue

  • Stunning bird’s-eye view

  • Peaceful meditation area

? 4. Alchi Monastery – Oldest Buddhist Murals in Ladakh

Founded: 10th–11th century

Location: 65 km from Leh

Alchi Monastery is famous for its ancient Indo-Tibetan murals and sculptures. It’s one of the few monasteries situated on flat ground rather than a hilltop.

Highlights:

  • 1,000-year-old murals

  • Unique wood carvings

  • Scenic riverside location

? 5. Spituk Monastery – Known for the Gustor Festival

Founded: 11th century

Location: Near Leh Airport

Spituk offers stunning views of Leh city and the Indus River. Its annual Gustor Festival draws many visitors.

Highlights:

  • Ancient statues & artifacts

  • Festival mask dances

  • Sunset photography

? 6. Lamayuru Monastery – Moonland’s Sacred Gem

Founded: 11th century

Location: 125 km from Leh

Situated near the “Moonland” terrain, Lamayuru is one of Ladakh’s oldest monasteries. Its unique location and ancient legends make it special.

Highlights:

  • Spectacular cliffside setting

  • Silent meditation halls

  • Famous Yuru Kabgyat Festival

? 7. Likir Monastery – Home to a Massive Gold Buddha

Founded: 11th century

Location: 52 km from Leh

Likir Monastery is known for its enormous 75-foot gold-covered Buddha statue and its peaceful surroundings.

Highlights:

  • Gold Maitreya Buddha

  • Ancient manuscripts

  • Beautiful valley views

? 8. Stakna Monastery – Tiger Nose Monastery

Founded: 16th century

Location: 25 km from Leh

Named after a rock resembling a tiger’s nose, Stakna stands proudly on the banks of the Indus River.

Highlights:

  • Riverside views

  • Vibrant prayer halls

  • Rare Buddhist artifacts

? 9. Stok Monastery – Royal Heritage Site

Founded: 14th century

Location: 15 km from Leh

Located near Stok Palace, this monastery offers insight into Ladakhi royal history and Buddhist culture.

Highlights:

  • Large Gautama Buddha statue

  • Nearby palace museum

  • Scenic views

? 10. Phyang Monastery – Known for Its Festivals

Founded: 16th century

Location: 20 km from Leh

Famous for the Gang-Sngon Tsedup Festival, Phyang Monastery is a major cultural center with beautiful murals and prayer halls.

Highlights:

  • Festival mask dances

  • Traditional music

  • Ancient murals

? 11. Matho Monastery – Home to Oracle Monks

Founded: 16th century

Location: 26 km from Leh

Matho is known for its annual Oracle Festival during which monks perform supernatural rituals.

Highlights:

  • Oracle performances

  • Rare thangkas

  • Peaceful hilltop views

? 12. Shey Monastery – The Ancient Royal Seat

Founded: 1655

Location: 15 km from Leh

Once the summer palace of Ladakhi kings, Shey Monastery houses an impressive 12-meter copper Buddha statue.

Highlights:

  • Royal architecture

  • Scenic Indus Valley views

  • Calm ambiance

? 13. Hemis Shukpachan Monastery – Village Gem

Founded: Ancient

Location: Hemis Shukpachan Village

A peaceful monastery located in a picturesque village, ideal for cultural experiences.

Highlights:

  • Village walks

  • Prayer wheel corridors

  • Local homestays

? 14. Takthok Monastery – The Cave Monastery

Founded: 8th century

Location: 70 km from Leh

Takthok is the only monastery in Ladakh belonging to the Nyingma sect. It features natural caves used for meditation.

Highlights:

  • Ancient meditation caves

  • Colorful murals

  • Unique architecture

? 15. Korzok Monastery – Spiritual Jewel Near Tso Moriri

Founded: 17th century

Location: Korzok Village, Near Tso Moriri

Situated near the beautiful Tso Moriri Lake, Korzok Monastery is a blend of spirituality and natural beauty.

Highlights:

  • Lake-side monastery views

  • Peaceful meditation atmosphere

  • Nomadic culture nearby

? Final Thoughts

Ladakh’s monasteries are more than tourist attractions—they are living symbols of Buddhism, culture, and tradition. Each monastery offers something unique: breathtaking architecture, serene surroundings, ancient artworks, or vibrant festivals. Visiting these 15 must-see monasteries will give you a deeper understanding of Ladakh’s spiritual soul and timeless heritage.