Sankar Monastery, or Sankar Gompa is a Buddhist monastery located just a stone’s throw away from Leh in Ladakh.
This beautiful Buddhist monastery is a daughter establishment of the famous Spituk Monastery and serves as the residence of the Abbot of Spituk, the Venerable Kushok Bakula, who is considered the senior incarnate lama of Ladakh.
But don’t be fooled by its small size, Sankar Monastery packs a punch with its rich history and culture.
Only 20 monks reside here, and visiting hours are limited, so make sure to plan your visit accordingly. Trust us, it’s worth getting up early or making a trip in the evening, as the monastery is beautifully lit and offers a peaceful atmosphere.
As you climb the steps to the double doors leading into the assembly hall, you’ll be greeted by three green drums and the place of the Gyeskos. The walls and entry door are beautifully painted, and upstairs, you’ll find the Dukar Lhakang, or inner sanctuary, where you’ll find a stunning statue of Avalokiteśvara with 1,000 arms and heads. The walls are adorned with Tibetan calendar paintings, mandalas, and rules for the monks.
One of the highlights of visiting Sankar Monastery is the breathtaking view of the Namgyal Tsemo Hills from the monastery.
A lama from the monastery visits the mid-sixteenth century fort built by Tashi Namgyal at the Namgyal Tsemo peak every morning and evening to maintain the temples and light the butter-lamps.
If you’re a fan of art and culture, Sankar Monastery is the place for you. With its rich history and traditional architecture, you’ll be transported back in time as you explore the various paintings and sculptures depicting the religion of Buddhism. And if you’re feeling adventurous, you can even make the journey on foot from Leh, exploring the nearby places along the way.
It’s the perfect place to relax, unwind, and immerse yourself in the culture of Buddhism. Just make sure to plan your visit accordingly, as the timings are restricted to 7:00 AM – 10:00 AM and 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM.
So, pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready for a spiritual journey like no other!
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