The Sankar Monastery also known as Sankar Gompa, is a Buddhist monastery situated 3 kilometers from the main town of Leh. It is believed to be a subsidiary of the Spituk Gompa. The eminent KushokBakula, the senior incarnate monk of Ladakh, is a resident of the Sankar Gompa. Perched on a steep hill in the region of Ladakh, this monastic complex is a must-visit for anyone traveling to the area. If you’re looking for a truly unique experience, then Sankar Monastery in Ladakh is the place to go.
Located near Leh city, Sankar Monastery is home to approximately 20 Gelugpa monks. While there is no permanent residence, you are free to visit the place during the morning and late afternoon. Evening visits are also recommended, as the monastery is well-lit and well-maintained. Visitors will be welcomed by the double doors leading into the assembly hall. To the right of the door, there are three green drums located under the Gyeskos. The entry door is adorned with beautiful paintings. The inner sanctuary, called the DukarLhakang, is the next room.
Visit Sankar Monastery
A visit to Sankar Monastery is not an experience to be missed. So, don’t forget to put it in your Leh Ladakh tour Itinerary.
Constructed in the 1950s, the monastery is the seat of the head of the Ladakh Gelukpa sect. It is situated on a hilltop, with beautiful views of Namgyal Tsemo Hills. The walls are adorned with paintings of Buddhist gods, believed to be the guardians of the four quarters of heaven.
Unlike many Ladakh monasteries, Sankar Monastery is relatively modern and can be visited during any time of year. However, tourists must visit during the fixed visiting hours from 7 am to 10 am and 5 pm to 7 pm. The monastery remains closed from October to April due to heavy snowfall. The best time to visit the monastery is from May to October. As the weather is unpredictable and the roads are often impassable during the winter months, you should plan your visit accordingly.
The Sankar monastery is a 90-year-old monastery and contains a thriving community of monks. It is the headquarters of one of the most prominent Buddhist sects. The monks of the Gelukpa sect were founded in this region and are among the most important religious centers in the world. A visit to this holy site will enrich your spiritual life and give you a sense of the significance of the city’s Sankar gompa.
Khardungla on the way
The view of the mighty Khardung-La Pass from the monastery is spectacular. The monastery is built at a scenic location and is a great place to visit if you’re visiting the Ladakh region. There are several other attractions in the surroundings which you can visit on the way to Sankar Monastery.