Shey Monastery

Shey Monastery, also known as Shey Palace, is a prominent Buddhist monastery in the Leh district of Ladakh, in the northernmost part of India. It is around 15 kilometres from Leh and can be easily accessed by road. The monastery is one of Ladakh's most popular tourist attractions and is renowned for its rich history, cultural significance, and stunning architecture.

The monastery was built in the 17th century by Deldan Namgyal, the king of Ladakh, as a summer palace for the royal family. The castle was constructed on a hilltop overlooking the Indus Valley and was the Ladakh kings' residence for many years. However, over time, the palace was converted into a monastery and became an important religious centre for the local people.

The monastery is known for its beautiful architecture, combining Tibetan, Indian, and Ladakhi styles. The main structure of the sanctuary is a three-story building with a large central courtyard surrounded by several smaller buildings. The square is adorned with beautiful murals, prayer flags, and other decorative elements and serves as a gathering place for the monks and visitors.

Shey Monastery is its massive gold-plated copper statue of Buddha Shakyamuni, which stands at around 12 meters. The figure is located on the top floor of the main building and is surrounded by smaller statues of other Buddhist deities. The statue is considered one of the largest and most impressive in the entire region and is a major draw for tourists and pilgrims alike.

The monastery also contains several smaller shrines and prayer halls dedicated to a different deity or religious figure. These shrines are adorned with beautiful murals, carvings, and other decorative elements and provide a quiet and peaceful space for visitors to reflect and meditate.

Places To Visit Near Shey Monastery:

Thiksey Monastery:

Located just a few kilometres from Shey Monastery, Thiksey Monastery is one of Ladakh's largest and most impressive monasteries. It is known for its stunning architecture, beautiful murals, and breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.

Hemis Monastery:

Hemis Monastery is one of Ladakh's oldest and most important monasteries, located around 45 kilometres from Shey. It is known for its rich history, beautiful art and architecture, and stunning natural surroundings.

Leh Palace:

Leh Palace is a historical palace located in the heart of Leh town, around 15 kilometres from Shey Monastery. It was built in the 17th century and is known for its beautiful architecture, stunning views of the surrounding mountains, and rich cultural heritage.

Pangong Tso Lake:

Located around 150 kilometres from Shey Monastery, Pangong Tso Lake is a stunning high-altitude lake famous for its beautiful turquoise waters and gorgeous natural surroundings. It is a popular destination for tourists and adventure enthusiasts, offering camping, trekking, and photography opportunities.

Nubra Valley:

Nubra Valley is a beautiful valley located around 120 kilometres from Shey Monastery, known for its stunning natural beauty, picturesque villages, and unique cultural heritage. It is home to several Buddhist monasteries, hot springs, and beautiful dunes.