10 Famous Monasteries in Ladakh You Must Visit

Ever wondered what those beautiful white buildings on hilltops are while scrolling through Ladakh photos or browsing through Leh Ladakh trip packages? Yep, those are monasteries—and no, they’re not just for monks or serious spiritual seekers. In fact, visiting monasteries in Ladakh is one of the coolest (and calmest) things you can do on your trip.

These places are peaceful, full of history, and honestly, they have some of the best views in Ladakh. You’ll find giant Buddha statues, spinning prayer wheels, colourful wall paintings, and friendly monks who might just smile and go back to their chanting. From big names like Hemis and Thiksey to quiet gems like Alchi, every monastery has its own vibe.

So if you need a break from bumpy roads or high-altitude adventures, stop by a monastery. You don’t need a guidebook or deep knowledge—just take off your shoes, walk in quietly, and let the calm do the rest. Also, if you’re on a Leh Ladakh bike ride, make sure to stop by a few monasteries along the way.

Hemis Monastery

Hemis Monastery is the largest and possibly the wealthiest monastery in Ladakh, tucked away in a gorge about 45 km southeast of Leh. Belonging to the Drukpa (Red Hat) lineage, it’s a massive spiritual and cultural hub.

Counted among the top monasteries to visit in Ladakh, it houses an impressive collection of gold and silver stupas, ancient thangkas, and vivid murals that speak of its rich legacy.

But what truly draws visitors here is the famous Hemis Tsechu festival, usually held in June or July. During this time, monks perform the Cham dance (masked dance) to honor Guru Padmasambhava.

Timings: 8 AM–1 PM, 2 PM–6 PM
Entry Fees: ₹50 (Indians), ₹200 (foreigners) + camera ₹100

Thiksey Monastery

Located just 19 km south of Leh along the Leh-Manali highway, Thiksey Monastery is often compared to the Potala Palace in Tibet—and not without reason. This stunning 12-storey structure cascades down a hill and belongs to the Gelugpa (Yellow Hat) sect. Its star attraction is a majestic 15-meter-high statue of Maitreya Buddha, which spans two floors of the monastery.

Timings: 7 AM–7 PM (May–Nov)
Entry Fees: ₹30 per person

Diskit Monastery

Diskit Monastery is the oldest and largest monastery in the Nubra Valley and a prominent part of the Gelugpa sect. Sitting on a hilltop in Diskit village, the monastery offers breathtaking views of the Shyok River and the surrounding desert valley.

Part of the top monasteries to visit in Ladakh, one of its most iconic features is the towering 32-meter statue of Maitreya Buddha, positioned just below the monastery, blessing the valley with its serene presence.

Timings: 7 AM–1 PM, 2 PM–7 PM
Entry Fees: ₹30 per person

Lamayuru Monastery

Situated about 127 km west of Leh on the Leh-Srinagar highway, Lamayuru Monastery is among the oldest and most visually striking monasteries in Ladakh. Set amidst Ladakh’s famous “moonscape” terrain, the monastery belongs to the Drikung Kagyu school and is often referred to as “Tharpa Ling,” meaning the place of freedom.

It’s one of the famous monasteries in Ladakh, known for its ancient frescoes, spiritual vibe, and two vibrant annual masked dance festivals that bring locals and travelers together in celebration.

Timings: 7 AM–7 PM
Entry Fees: ₹20–30

Alchi Monastery

Alchi Monastery stands out for its unique flat-ground construction, unlike most monasteries built on hilltops. Located around 70 km west of Leh by the Indus River, Alchi is known for its exquisite 11th and 12th-century Kashmiri-influenced wall paintings and wooden carvings. It’s often included in routes like the 8 Days Thrilling Leh Ladakh Tour Package with Umling La, making it a peaceful cultural stop amid all the adventure.

The monastery complex comprises several ancient temples, including the Sumtseg and the Dukhang, and is a treasure trove of Indo-Tibetan art.

Timings: 10 AM–1 PM, 2 PM–6 PM
Entry Fees: ₹25 for Indian nationals; ₹50 for foreign nationals

Spituk Monastery

Perched on a hill just 7 km from Leh near the airport, Spituk Monastery dates back to the 11th century and is affiliated with the Gelugpa sect. It’s known for its sweeping views of the Indus River and a serene atmosphere.

The monastery houses ancient masks, ritual items, and a unique temple dedicated to Goddess Vajrabhairva (Kali). Her face is kept veiled throughout the year, except during the Spituk Gustor Festival, when it is revealed.

Timings: 8 AM–1 PM
Entry Fees: ₹20 per person

Stakna Monastery

One of the many striking monasteries in Ladakh, Stakna Monastery sits on a hill shaped like a tiger’s nose—hence the name “Stakna,” meaning “tiger’s nose.” Located about 25 km from Leh, this Drukpa sect monastery offers unbeatable views of the Indus River flowing below. Though relatively small, it houses lovely paintings, statues, and ancient scriptures.

Timings: 6 AM–6 PM
Entry Fees: None

Phugtal Monastery

Phugtal Monastery, also known as Phuktal Monastery, is one of the most remote and awe-inspiring spiritual sites in Ladakh. Hidden deep in the Zanskar region, it appears almost like a honeycomb clinging to the cliffside of a limestone cave above the Lungnak River.

What makes Phugtal truly magical is its setting—you can’t just drive there. It requires a trek of several hours or days, depending on where you start, usually from Padum. Despite its inaccessibility, the monastery is still an active place of worship and home to around 70 monks.

Timings: 6 AM–6 PM
Entry Fees: None—donations accepted

Likir Monastery

Located about 53 km west of Leh, Likir Monastery was established in the 11th century and belongs to the Gelugpa order. Its name translates to “the Naga-encircled,” referring to the guardian serpent spirits of the region.

A highlight of monastery tours in Ladakh, the monastery is famous for its 75-foot-tall gilded Maitreya Buddha statue that sits outdoors and gleams against the rugged Ladakhi landscape.

Timings: 9 AM–1 PM, 2 PM–6 PM
Entry Fees: ₹20–30

Phyang Monastery

Around 17 km west of Leh lies Phyang Monastery, affiliated with the Drikung Kagyu sect. While not as heavily visited as some of its counterparts, Phyang offers a tranquil and enriching experience.

A highlight of any Ladakh monastery tour, this monastery houses ancient Buddhist scriptures, idols, weapons, and vibrant Thangkas. It also hosts the Gang-Sngon Tsedup Festival, where monks perform masked Cham dances with deep spiritual energy.

Timings: 7 AM–1 PM, 2 PM–6 PM
Entry Fees: ₹20–30

Best Time to Visit Monasteries in Ladakh

The ideal time to visit monasteries in Ladakh is from May to September, when the weather is pleasant, roads are open, and the region is alive with cultural festivals and travel-friendly conditions.

Winter months (October to March) bring heavy snow and limited access to many monasteries in Ladakh, but if you’re up for the chill, it’s a unique time to see Ladakh in a quiet, spiritual light.