Thiksey Monastery is one of the most beautiful monasteries in Leh-Ladakh. It is on top of a hill which gives amazing views of Indus valley and surrounding mountains to visitors. Thiksey monastery is also known as “Mini Potala” because it looks like Potala famous place is tibet. This monastery is located about 19 kilometers from Leh. This monastery has history, culture, and spiritual significance.
Thiksey Monastery History
Thiksey monastery was built in 15th century by a monk Sherab Zangpo. He is follower of a well known buddhist teacher Je Tsongkhapa. In beginning he built a small monastery in a nearby village but later shifts to the hill where today this monastery stands. This monastery belongs to Gelug school of Tibetan Buddhism, known for its strict practices and teachings.
Architecture and design of Thiksey Monastery
The monastery is built with beautiful Ladakhi and Tibetan styles. The main things in the monastery is 12-story Maitreya Buddha statue which is 15meters tall. Built in the honour of Dalai Lama’s 14th visit in 1970, this is biggest statue in Ladakh and one of most impressive sight in the region.
Inside the monastery you find beautiful colourful prayer halls, shrines, and rooms filled with beautiful paintings and carvings. There are also ancient manuscripts, statues, and thangkas on display, enhancing monastery beauty.
Spiritual Significance
This monastery is not only a historical site, it’s a living center for Buddhist learning and practice. About 100 monks live here and learning about buddhism, meditation, and rituals. Gustor Festival ,this is one of the most important festival celebrated every year. During the festival monks perfoms scared dance called cham.
The monastery also plays a big role in teaching Buddhism to the local community. Monks study texts on meditation, astrology, and Tibetan medicine, passing on their knowledge to younger generations.
How to Reach Thiksey monastery
1.By Air
Nearest airport to the monastery is Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport in Leh, which is well connected to major cities in India like Delhi, Srinagar, and Mumbai. From airport you can book a taxi or take a shared vechicle to the monastery which will takes around 30-40 mintues.
2.By bus
Many local buses runs between leh and thiksey monastery at regular intervals. This is most budget friendly option for you if you want to explore the area on your own pace.
