VISIT LADAKH —» Places to Visit » Alchi

Alchi

The Chaskor, or religious enclave, is one of the most important cultural sites in Ladakh. Built in the 11 th century, it is a treasure trove of early Buddhist art in the Kashmiri tradition, a style quite different from the Tibetan art found in Ladakh's other monasteries. Also unlike other gompas, it is hidden down by the river rather than in the more usual elevated position. This may explain why it wasn't destroyed by the various invaders who have passed by throughout the centuries. It was constructed under the supervision of Kaldan Shesrab, a follower of Rinchen Zangpo, the man responsible for reviving interest in Buddhism at that time. Alchi is one of the few remaining examples of that era. As this is a popular stop on the tourist circuit there are a variety of places to stay. The village and gompa are reached by crossing the Indus just beyond Saspol and doubling back on yourself for about 2km. If you are walking it takes about one hour from the bridge. There are daily buses from Leh at 4pm . They return to Leh the following morning, leaving Alchi at 7am.

Places to Visit Alchi :: Zanskar :: Lamayuru :: Kargil :: Shrey :: Rizong :: Protected Areas