Alchi Monastery and village is situated 70 kilometers Northwest of Leh, a few kilometers off the road to Kargil. This important Buddhist monastery is famous for 11th century murals of Indo-Tibetan style. Unlike most of the monasteries in Ladakh situated atop hills, Alchi is situated on the plains. This interesting monastery was founded by the kings of Ladakh, Lhachen Takpa and Lhachen Changchub Sempsa along with the famous translator Rinchen Zangpo. In the years between 1020 and 1035, they invited some of the best artists from other monasteries in the proximity, mostly from Tibet and the areas of Kashmir, to adorn the walls of Alchi with the fascinating pieces of art that can still be watched and admired here.
On your way from Leh to Kargil, or vice a versa, you can stop by at Alchi. Even an hour's visit should suffice, two if you decide to have a meal at the interesting cafes and eateries here. As you enter the monastic complex of Alchi, afoot, you pass through an interesting market that does attract you with some intriguing articles including peculiar masks, statues of Buddhist as well as Hindu deities and other metal and handmade items. If you are planning to take home some souvenirs from Ladakh, Alchi will surely offer some interesting options.
In a dissimilar fashion to other monasteries, Alchi Monastery is a complex of stupas and small temples, known as Chhoskhor Temples, spread around in proximity. Narrow, paved footways sided by modest gardens lead you from temple to temple. These temples house some precious murals and statues of historical importance. Important of these temples are Vairochana, Sumrtsek, Lotsa and Manjushri. Apart from the exceptional murals of Buddhist deities housed in these temples, the large, Wooden statues of Maitreya, Avalokiteshvara and Manjushri are admirable. The large mandalas in the Vairochana temple are especially popular.
Though you can click pictures inside the complex, photography is banned inside the temples. The temples require an entry ticket, though the charge is nominal. The village of Alchi also offers staying facilities.
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Situated 70 kilometers towards the Northeast of Leh, Alchi monastery is an important Buddhist monastery. It is famous for 11th century murals of Indo Tibetan style. This monastery was founded by kings of Ladakh, Lhachen Takpa and Lhachen Changchub Sempsa. The Alchi monastery is a complex of stupas and small temples known as Chhoskhor temples. They house some precious murals and statues of historical importance. Entry in the temples requires a nominally charged entry ticket. Photography is banned inside the temples. The Alchi village also offers lodging facilities.
| Destination Grade: |
C (What is this?) |
| Rating: |
6/10 |
| Population: |
400 to 500 |
| Airport: |
Leh |
| Railway station: |
Pathankot |
| Nearest Major City(s): |
Leh |
| How to reach: |
Alchi is well connected to Leh by bus. Taxis are also available on hire to reach Alchi |
| Major Tourist Attraction: |
Historical Monuments |
| Speciality(Famous for): |
Historical Monuments |
| Food speciality: |
Likir monestry has a decent restaurant in front of the Chos-Khor, it serves regional and Chinese cuisine |
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