Other places of spiritual significance in Ladakh

Spiritual Ladakh – Beyond the classic tour

Located near Thiksey Monastery in Nyerma, just a few kilometers from Thiksey, the nunnery houses approximately 20 nuns who operate a homestay within the premises.

This serene retreat, set away from the main road amidst lush trees and a gentle stream, offers guests an opportunity to participate in daily prayers and share meals prepared and enjoyed together in a communal dining hall.

Adjacent to the nunnery lies the historic Nyarma Monastery, surrounded by ancient stupas, providing a tranquil environment ideal for meditation and reflection.​

Nestled in Sham Valley, Jelichun Nunnery, also known as Chulichan, is closely associated with Rizong Monastery. It serves as a vital support system for the monastery, sustaining its needs through agricultural work and labor.

Around 26 nuns reside in the nunnery, fully participating in the monastery’s economic activities, such as spinning, oil extraction from apricot nuts, and tending to livestock. While the younger nuns are encouraged to pursue religious studies and meditation, the older nuns are responsible for the daily toils that keep the monastery running.

In the past, nuns at Jelichun endured harsh conditions, living in modest quarters without significant religious imagery, as their primary role was economic support. However, the situation has improved with efforts from the Ladakh Nuns Association, which has helped develop better educational and spiritual opportunities for the nuns.

Visitors to Rizong Monastery can also explore Jelichun Nunnery, witnessing firsthand the resilience and devotion of its nuns.

Located in Wakha, the Jangchub Choeling Nunnery serves as an educational institution for women pursuing the study of Buddhist scriptures in the Nalanda tradition.

Founded in 1987 under the vision of His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama, the nunnery provides a serene environment for spiritual learning and practice.

Nearby, the sacred Phokarzong, also known as Rgyal Cave Monastery, is believed to be the meditation site of Guru Padmasambhava, offering visitors a glimpse into the profound spiritual history of the region. ​

Chuchikjal Nunnery, also known as Chukchikjal, is a significant Buddhist site located near Karsha Monastery in the Zanskar region of Ladakh, India. Positioned on the opposite side of a small valley from Karsha Monastery, it serves as a residence for over 30 nuns, with 21 attending the nunnery’s school.

The nunnery’s temple is believed to date back to the 11th century and was constructed by Zanskar translator Pakpa Sherab, a student of Lotsawa Rinchen Zangpo. This temple houses a two-story statue of Chenrezig (Avalokiteshvara), which is said to be over a thousand years old. The temple’s well-preserved wall murals reflect the Kashmiri/Indian style, linking the structure to the era of Lotsawa Rinchen Zangpo.

In the 1950s, the eastern block of structures was added as the area began converting into a nunnery. This section includes a Choekhang, Tsok-khang, guest room, lobby, kitchen, and storeroom, much of which was hand-built by the 16 founding nuns themselves. Chuchikjal was officially established as a nunnery in 1976 by Kachen Lobzang Zotpa, a renowned Buddhist teacher in Ladakh.

Stongdey Monastery, also spelled Stongde or Stongday, is the second-largest monastic institution in Zanskar. Located approximately 13 kilometers northeast of Padum on the road to Zangla, it is perched atop a hill, offering panoramic views of the valley. The monastery belongs to the Gelugpa sect and is home to around 60 monks.

Founded in 1052 CE by Lama Marpa Lotsawa, a renowned translator and disciple of Naropa, Stongdey Monastery features several temples, including the Tshogs-Khang Temple, known for its exquisite wall paintings. The monastery’s architecture reflects traditional Tibetan styles, with whitewashed walls and golden rooftops.

Karsha Monastery, also known as Karsha Gompa or Karsha Chamspaling, is the largest and most significant monastery in Zanskar, situated 10 km north of Padum. The monastery belongs to the Gelugpa (Yellow Hat) sect of Tibetan Buddhism and houses over 100 monks.

The foundation of Karsha Monastery is attributed to the translator Phagspa Shesrab. The complex features several chapels, residential rooms for monks, and a library containing valuable Buddhist scriptures. The walls are adorned with ancient murals depicting Buddhist teachings and deities.

The monastery also hosts the annual Gustor Festival, a significant event marked by ritual dances and ceremonies.

Nestled within a cave in the Zanskar region, Zungkul Monastery is associated with the famous Indian yogi Naropa, who is believed to have meditated here.

The monastery’s unique cave setting and spiritual ambiance make it a compelling destination for those seeking solitude and reflection.​

Tungri Monastery, This lesser-known gem offers visitors a tranquil retreat, away from the bustling tourist trails.​Situated near the Tungri bridge, approximately 17 kilometers from Padum in Zanskar Valley, Tungri Monastery is accessible via a scenic drive.

Tungri Monastery serves as a spiritual haven for monks and devotees alike. Its secluded location fosters an environment conducive to meditation and introspection. The monastery’s architecture reflects traditional Ladakhi designs, with prayer halls adorned with ancient murals and statues depicting various Buddhist deities.​

The Tungri monastery allows visitors to immerse themselves in monastic life. Engaging in daily rituals, participating in prayers, and sharing meals with the resident monks can provide profound insights into Buddhist practices.

The monastery’s proximity to other significant spiritual sites enhances its appeal. Visitors can explore nearby monasteries such as Karsha and Stongdey. The journey between these monasteries traverses picturesque landscapes, making the spiritual pilgrimage a visual delight as well.​​

Historical Significance

Ladakh’s sky caves, some dating back thousands of years, are ancient cliffside dwellings carved into steep valley walls. The origins of Ladakh’s sky caves are shrouded in mystery, with many believed to have been constructed by monks and local communities seeking secluded places for meditation, religious practices and even as burial sites.

Their remote locations provided the solitude necessary for spiritual contemplation, away from the distractions of daily life. Some caves also contain ancient petroglyphs and murals, offering insights into the art and culture of early Ladakhi society.​

Notable Sky Caves in Ladakh

1. Shergol Cave Monastery : Located in the Wakha Mulbekh Valley, the Shergol Cave Monastery is perched on a cliffside, making it a striking landmark. The monastery’s unique architecture blends seamlessly with the natural rock formations, and it houses several ancient Buddhist relics.
2. Saspol Caves : Situated near the village of Saspol, these caves are renowned for their intricate murals depicting Buddhist iconography. The artwork provides valuable insights into the religious practices and artistic expressions of the period.​
3. Phugtal Monastery : Although not a cave in the traditional sense, Phugtal Monastery is built into a cliffside and includes numerous cavernous rooms and halls. Accessible only by foot, it remains one of the most isolated monasteries in the region, offering visitors a unique spiritual retreat.​