7 monasteries in Leh that are too pretty to skip

About a thousand years ago, a young monk named Rinchen Zangpo came to Leh. He wasn’t just travelling for fun; he was on a mission. He went all the way to Tibet, studied under wise teachers, and came back with big plans. And what did he do? He built 108 monasteries across the Himalayas. Many disappeared over time, but some are still standing strong, and lucky for us, a few are right here in Leh.

And when you see them for the first time, you’ll probably stop and stare. Then move ahead thinking of “yaar yeh kitna pretty hai!” but the next monastery is even prettier.

One of the best parts? Each monastery celebrates its annual festival at different times of the year. Locals wear vibrant, colourful costumes, monks perform masked dances, and the whole place fills up with music, chants, and energy. It’s not just beautiful, it’s electric.

Here is the list of the 7 prettiest monasteries you need to visit in Leh.

1. Hemis Monastery

Tucked away around 40 km from Leh, Hemis is not just big; it’s the largest and richest monastery in Ladakh. But it’s more than size, it’s the vibe. Built in the 17th century, Hemis is dedicated to Padmasambhava, the guru who brought Vajrayana Buddhism here.

Visit during the Hemis Festival (late June or early July), and you’ll see this place burst into colour and sound. Monks in silk robes perform Cham dances, and locals from nearby villages gather in vibrant traditional attire. The monastery turns into a grand stage of culture, music, and community spirit.

Fun fact: A manuscript discovered here claims that Jesus spent his “lost years” in India, learning Buddhism.

A young monk walking around Hemis Monastery

2. Diskit Monastery

Ladakh is full of surprises, and Diskit Monastery proves it. Home to a 106-ft tall Maitreya Buddha statue, Diskit watches over the Nubra Valley like a peaceful giant. But here’s the twist—inside the monastery, there’s a mummified hand and skull. Legend says they belonged to a Mongol warrior who once caused havoc in the region. Spooky right? And if you're around in October, don’t miss the Diskit Gustor Festival.

The giant Buddha statue at Diskit Monastery

3. Lamayuru Monastery

Ever wanted to walk on the moon? Well, Lamayuru is the closest you'll get without a spacesuit. Nicknamed the ‘Moonland of Ladakh’, this place is surreal. This is one of the oldest monasteries in Ladakh, built in the 11th century. Legend says Naropa, a Buddhist scholar, used magic to dry up a lake here so the monastery could be built. Honestly, it does feel like magic happened here. It hosts the Lamayuru Festival every June, so plan your trip accordingly.

The beautiful Lamayuru Monastery surrounded by mountains 

4. Thiksey Monastery

Around 18km from Leh, often called “Mini Potala” (because it looks like the Potala Palace in Tibet), this one’s all about grand architecture and peaceful vibes. Built over 12 stories, there is one big statue of Maitreya (future Buddha), which covers almost two floors of the monastery and is 40 feet in height. And if you’re around in mid-November, you’re in for a treat. Because of the Thiksey Gustor Festival, which brings in traditional performances, rituals, and energy that’ll stick with you for days.

Thiksey Monastery, standing tall on a mountain 

5. Alchi Monastery

Alchi is different. Most monasteries are high up in the mountains—but this one? It’s tucked beside the calm Indus River. Built over 1,000 years ago by Rinchen Zangpo himself, Alchi is packed with stunning Kashmiri-style murals, wood carvings, and frescoes that have survived for centuries. It’s said that Zangpo brought 32 artists from Kashmir to paint the interiors, and they nailed it.

The best time to go? Late January or early February during the Alchi Gustor Festival. It’s not as crowded as the bigger festivals, which makes it even better.

Locals and monks celebrating the vibrant festival at Alchi Monastery

6. Likir Monastery

About 50 km from Leh, Likir is peaceful, bright, and surrounded by incredible views. Its name means “The Naga Encircled” because locals believe two protective snake spirits watch over the place. Whether you believe in that or not, one thing’s for sure, the energy here is something special.

In February, the Dosmoche Festival takes over. There are monk dances, rituals to ward off evil, and a community gathering which REALLY feels wa

The giant Buddha statue at Likir Monastery 

7. Phyang Monastery

Just 17 km from Leh, Phyang is easy to miss on most tourist routes, but that’s part of its charm. It has mountain views, old Buddhist artifacts, and even a school for young monks.

If you’re lucky enough to be around in July or August, catch the Phyang Tsedup Festival. It’s joyful, spiritual, and super photogenic (not that you’ll want to spend the whole time behind).

Phyang Monastery surrounded by peaceful mountains

How to make the most of your time in a Monastery?

Monasteries aren’t just quick photo stops—they’re experiences. Here's how to feel them, not just see them:

• Attend a morning prayer
• Spin the prayer wheels
• Just sit without your phone
• Visit during a festival

Basically, don’t just click a pic; live the moment.

We understand that Leh is famous for bike rides, mountains, and adrenaline-pumping adventures. And that’s awesome. But if you want to understand Ladakh… If you want to feel its soul…You’ve got to slow down and spend time in its monasteries. And honestly? After reading this, how can you not feel like packing your bags?

And still confused about what else to do in Ladakh beyond monastery hopping? The Hosteller got you covered, read about things to do in Leh.
Trust us, it’ll make your trip (and your Insta stories) even better.