Thiksey Monastery, Ladakh

Introduction and history: Located approximately 18 km from town of Leh, Thiksey monastery is one of the masterpiece of monasteries at Ladakh region. Thiksey monastery was initially built at Stakmo by Sherab Stangpo of Stod. However, Spon Paldan Sherab, the nephew of Sherab Zangpo, reconstructed the monastery in the year 1430 AD. The new monastery was sited on a hilltop, to the north of Indus River. Thiksey is one of the finest examples of Ladakhi architecture. This Gompa is situated on the top of the hill and forms part of Gelukpa order of Buddhism.

What to see and when to go: Thiksey Gompa serves as the residence of approximately eighty monks. It has been served, for quite a long time, by the successive reincarnations of the Skyabsje Khanpo Rinpoche. The monastery also plays the host to Gustor ritual, organized from the 17th to 19th day of the ninth month of the Tibetan calendar. Sacred dances also form a part of this ritual, which takes place on an annual basis.

Things to do: Apart from visiting Thiksey Monastery, one can enjoy hot water springs at Panamik. The last destination travelers are permitted to travel in Nubra valley, are believed to have certain medicinal qualities that cure a number of ailments.

Accommodation: Leh offers many kinds of accommodation to suit almost every pocket and preference. Most of the hotels are family-run establishments and, therefore, service is more personalized than professional.

Mode of transport: The nearest Airport is Leh. For road travelers, National Highway 1D will take you to Leh. It takes close to 7 hours from Kargil, which forms part of 1D (Srinagar–Kargil-Leh).

Related links:
• Website: http://www.thiksey.com/

See also (nearby places): Hemis Gompa, Namgyal Tsemo Gompa, Sankar gompa, Shanti Stupa, Likir Monastery, Cave Monastery , Zongkhul Monastery , Shey Palace, Pangong Lake, Tsomiriri lake, Korzok Village, The Samtaling Gompa, Nubra Valley, Alchi Gompa, Lamayuru Monastery, Spituk Monastery, Leh City.