Thiksey Monastery is one of the largest Buddhist monasteries in Leh, the capital city of Ladakh. Located in the southeast of Leh, on a hill above Thiksey village, the monastery has one of the largest complexes in the valley. The monastery was established in the 15th century by Pon Sherab Raspa It is located about 20 kms away from Leh at an altitude of 3600 meters above sea level. It is a famous monastery in Ladakh which is also called “Mini Potala” because of its resemblance to Potala Palace in Tibet.

The structure of Thiksey Monastery is painted in red and yellow. Thiksey Monastery has a tall statue of Maitrya Buddha. The monastery provides the majestic views from the hilltop and you can see the nearby monasteries such as Stok and Shey.

Thiksey Monastery: A Spiritual Retreat Amidst the Himalayas

Key attractions in Thiksey Monastery 

Maitreya Buddha Statue

Maitreya Buddha is the highlight of Thiksey monastery. It stands tall and has a 15 feet high buddha statue covering 2 storeys. It is situated 18 kms from Leh. It is a 12 storey monastery, and has 10 temples, assembly hall, 120 monks, nunnery.

The monastery is often referred to as “Mini Potala of India” as it resembles the Potala palace in Lhasa Tibet. The 400 feet Maitreya Buddha covers the two floors of the monastery. The monastery offers the views of the Indus valley. It is the best Buddhist monastery near Leh in Ladakh region.

Thiksey monastery History

The history of Thiksey monastery is quite interesting. It has a rich history tied to Tibetan Buddhism and the Gelugpa (Yellow Hat) sect. Jangsem Sherab Zangpo, a disciple of Tsongkhapa (founder of the Gelugpa sect), established a small monastery at Stakmo, near present-day Thiksey. In the 15th century, Palden Zangpo relocated the monastery to Thiksey hill. In the 16th century. The Namgyal dynasty expanded the monastery and contributed to the growth of it making it the largest monastery in Ladakh. In 1970, the 14th Dalai Lama visited and the monastery built a 15-meter (49 ft) tall statue of Maitreya Buddha and today it is known as the spiritual landmark which stands as the beacon of Tibetan Buddhist culture, education, and heritage in Ladakh.

Thiksey monastery Architecture 

The monastery is a multi tier structure that resembles the Potala Palace in Lhasa, Tibet. It has Tibetan architecture. The monastery has various temples, stupas and meditation halls. The grand Maitreya Buddha is the heart and soul of the monastery. It is believed to be the Buddha of the future, who will appear to spread wisdom and enlightenment when the world needs it most. The main attraction of the monastery is the central hall where monks perform the prayer. The monastery offers the rooftop terrace that offers panoramic views of the Indus Valley, snow-capped peaks, and nearby monasteries like Shey.

Thiksey Monastery Stay

The monastery runs a small guest house (Thiksey Monastery Guesthouse) for visitors. They offer lodging and food in Thiksey monastery. But you cannot stay overnight in the monastery. There are several accommodation options nearby the monastery where you can stay. You can enjoy Tibetan and Ladakhi food. 

Best Itinerary for Thiksey Monastery

If you are planning a trip to Ladakh and looking for the best itinerary, then this is the itinerary that you should not miss out on. It covers the famous places like Thiksey monastery that you must be interested in visiting in Ladakh. Ladakh trip is a dream of every traveler. The place is truly a heaven for adventure enthusiasts.

• Day 1: Arrival at Leh Airport | Acclimatization Day
• Day 2: Leh Local Sightseeing
• Day 3: Leh to Nubra Valley (130 Kms) Via Khardung La
• Day 4: Nubra Valley to Pangong (180 Kms) Via Diskit Monastery
• Day 5: Pangong Tso to Hanle (180 kms) Via Changthang Valley
• Day 6: Hanle and Umling La Excursion Day
• Day 7: Hanle to Leh (254 kms) Via Chumathang Village
• Day 8: Departure from Leh

Click here to read the detailed itinerary.

How to reach Thiksey Monastery

Thiksey monastery in Ladakh can be reached by the following ways:

By Air

There are regular flights available from major cities like Delhi, Chandigarh, Srinagar, Mumbai. You reach Leh by taking a flight to Leh and then hire a cab from Leh to Thiksey monastery.

By road

You can reach Thiksey monastery by road via Manali. Thiksey monastery is located along Leh Manali highway. You can take a scenic drive and reach Leh via Manali. Thiksey monastery is located around 19 kms from Leh. It is easily accessible to the visitors by road. They can hire a taxi 

Nearby places To Visit Around Thiksey Monastery

Shey Palace

Shey palace is located on a hillock, to the South of Leh. It is loaded at a distance of 15 kms to the South of Leh. It was once the summer retreat of the Namgyal Monastery. It is one of the largest monasteries in Ladakh. The palace houses a 12-meter-tall Shakyamuni Buddha statue, made of copper and covered in gold. 

Hemis Monastery

Hemis monastery is one of the largest monasteries located in Ladakh. It is situated at a distance of 40 kms from Leh. It is famous for its vibrant Hemis festival, ancient relics and stunning location. It has a giant Statue of Guru Padmasambhava. 

Leh Palace

The Leh Palace is a 17th century royal palace, It offers panoramic views of Leh town. It is a nine story structure, it is a perfect example of Tibetan architecture. It closely resembles the Potala Palace. The distance between Leh Palace and Thiksey monastery is approximately 20 kms. Leh Palace is a must visit place in Leh.

Best Time to visit Thiksey Monastery

Summer (May to September)

The best time to visit Thiksey Monastery is from May to September. The weather remains pleasant and warm. If you are someone who does not want colder days and snow, then this time is the perfect for your summer vacation. This time is ideal for sightseeing and photography, you can explore the nearby places too.

Autumn (October to early November)

As a time of festivities in Thiksey monastery, Gustor festival is a major Buddhist festival which is celebrated in Thiksey in October or November. 

Winter (November to April)

During these months Ladakh experiences extreme cold, it is not recommended to visit Ladakh during these months as the climate becomes harsh and unfavorable. 

Timings for Visiting Thiksey Monastery

The monastery remains open throughout the week from 6:00 a.m to 1:00 p.m and 1:30 p.m to 6:30 p.m. It is recommended to visit Thiksey monastery during morning hours as you get to see the morning prayer.

Travel Tips 

• Acclimatize for at least 24 hours in Leh before taking your journey ahead in Ladakh.
• Stay silent and respectful during the premises, it’s an active place of worship.

FAQs

How far is Thiksey monastery from Leh?

Leh to Thiksey monastery distance is approx. 20 kms.

Can we stay in Thiksey Monastery?

You can stay near Thiksey monastery as there are hotels and guesthouses. Moreover, there is a Thiksey monastery guesthouse which is run by monastery, they provide lodging and food.

How old is the Thiksey Monastery?

Thiksey monastery was established in the mid 15th century by Pon Sherab Raspa. 

When to visit the Thiksey Monastery?

You can visit Thiksey Monastery during the morning time as the monks perform prayers and it feels peaceful. The ideal time to visit the monastery is between May to September, the weather remains pleasant in Leh.

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