Leh, Ladakh
356 Tours,
100 Activities
Hemis Monastery is one of the most prominent and largest monasteries in Ladakh, located about 45 kilometers southeast of Leh, the capital of the Indian union territory of Ladakh. Here's some information about Hemis Monastery: History: Hemis Monastery was founded in the 17th century by Stagsang Raspa Nawang Gyatso, a disciple of the famous Tibetan Buddhist scholar and saint, Je Tsongkhapa. It belongs to the Drukpa lineage of Tibetan Buddhism and is dedicated to Guru Padmasambhava, also known as Guru Rinpoche, the founder of Tibetan Buddhism. Architecture: The monastery complex is a stunning example of traditional Tibetan architecture, with whitewashed walls adorned with colorful murals, intricate woodwork, and ornate thangkas (religious banners). The main temple, known as Tshogkhang, houses a rich collection of ancient Buddhist scriptures, thangkas, and ceremonial artifacts. Festivals: Hemis Monastery is renowned for its vibrant annual festival, known as the Hemis Festival, which celebrates the birth anniversary of Guru Padmasambhava. The festival, held on the 10th day of the Tibetan lunar month of Tse Chu, attracts thousands of pilgrims and tourists from across the world. During the festival, masked dances, known as Cham dances, are performed by the monks, accompanied by traditional music and chanting, to commemorate the victory of good over evil. Library: Hemis Monastery is home to a valuable collection of ancient Buddhist scriptures and texts, including rare manuscripts written in Tibetan and Sanskrit. The monastery's library preserves and protects these precious religious texts, which are considered sacred by Tibetan Buddhists. Surroundings: The monastery is set amidst a picturesque landscape, surrounded by towering mountains and lush green valleys. The serene and tranquil atmosphere of Hemis makes it an ideal place for meditation, reflection, and spiritual retreat. Thangka Exhibition: Hemis Monastery is also famous for its biennial Thangka Exhibition, where visitors can admire and appreciate the intricate artistry of thangkas, which are traditional Tibetan Buddhist paintings on cloth. These thangkas depict various Buddhist deities, mandalas, and religious motifs, serving as objects of meditation and devotion for practitioners. Overall, Hemis Monastery is not only a religious and cultural landmark but also a symbol of the rich heritage and spiritual legacy of Ladakh. Its majestic architecture, vibrant festivals, and serene surroundings make it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking to explore the unique cultural treasures of the region.