Julley! I’m Stenzin Punchok, welcoming you to Ladakh—land of majestic peaks, serene lakes, and rich culture. Growing up here, I’ve embraced its beauty, traditions, and captivating stories from elders.

Thiksey Monastery, founded in the 15th century by Je Tsongkhapa’s disciple Jangsem Sherab Zangpo, is a prominent Buddhist monastery located on a hill overlooking the Indus Valley. It is affiliated with the Gelugpa sect, also known as the Yellow Hat sect, of Tibetan Buddhism. The monastery was established to propagate the teachings of the Gelugpa order in Ladakh.
The monastery is known for its stunning architecture and a large statue of Maitreya Buddha, which is visible from miles away. Thiksey Monastery is often compared to the Potala Palace in Lhasa, Tibet, due to its architectural resemblance. It is the largest monastery in central Ladakh and serves as an important center for Buddhist learning and practice.
Thiksey Monastery is located about 19 kilometers from Leh, on the Leh-Manali highway. It is situated at an altitude of approximately 3,600 meters (11,800 feet) above sea level.
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