Chemrey Monastery

Located in the village of Chemrey in Ladakh, the eponymous Chemrey Monastery was constructed in the mid-17th century, as a dedication to King Sengge Namgyal. Affiliated to the Drukpa sect of Buddhism, the monastery was founded by Lama Tagsang Raschen, and can accommodate up to 20 monks. Additionally, the monastery boasts of two Dukhang or assembly halls, and one Lhakhang or temple, in addition to several shrines, as well as scriptures.

There are several things that contribute to the popularity of the Chemrey Monastery. These include the impressive statue of Guru Padmasambhava, along with a great collection of 29 different volumes of sacred scriptures. These scriptures have been written in gold and silver. 

Located at a distance of around 40 kilometres from Leh, the monastery is set in a very beautiful location, and offers panoramic views of the surrounding natural landscapes. It is also the place where the annual Chemrey Angchok, or the festival of sacred dances, is held in the month of November, on the 18th and 29th days of the ninth month of the Tibetan Calendar.

Suggested Read: Ladakh in November

• When in Ladakh, head over to the Chemrey Monastery, considered to be an important centre of Buddhist learning.
• Founded in 1664, the monastery boasts of a scenic location, with the snowclad mountains acting as its backdrop.
• Explore the two Dukhang of the monastery, and catch sights of age-old paintings of the founder of the monastery in the old Dukhang.
• Visit the new Dukhang to marvel at the images of Guru Padmasambhava.
• Spend some time at the monastery and learn about the teachings of Buddhism from the rare collections of scriptures here, along with a 29-volume scripture written in gold and silver letters.
• Make sure that you see the collection of murals of Shakyamuni or the historical Buddha, in addition to those of Kalchakra, Akshobhya and the thousand buddha.

The best time to visit Chemrey Monastery is from the month of June till October, during the summer and autumn seasons here. While the roads leading to Chemrey Gompa remain closed due to snow through the rest of the year, it is during these months that the weather clears up and remains pleasant.

A detailed travel guide from Pangong to Tso Moriri

The best way to reach Chemrey Monastery from Leh is by a bus ride to the Chemrey Village, from where this Gompa is located a short walk away. Alternatively, you can also rent a taxi or a jeep to cover the 45 kilometre distance between the main city of Leh and the Chemrey Monastery.

Check this out: Ladakh in October