VISIT LADAKH —» Places to Visit » Shey

Shey

This was the old capital and the home of the kings of Ladakh before the new capital became established in Leh. The palace sits in a strategic position on a spur jutting out into the Indus Valley. The main temple contains a large Buddha statue sculpted by Nepalese craftsmen. It is believed that after its completion they settled in the area of Chiling and started the now famous metal-working industry there. In the courtyard there's an impressive gold-topped stupa, best viewed from above. The top of the palace is reached by some very dilapidated steps and from here there are wonderful views across to Stok and Spituk, and also of the hundreds of stupas on the desert to the north-east.

It is possible to stay in Shey at the Hotel Shilklulr below the palace. They have double rooms for Rs150 (att). There are buses to Shey every hour from Leh. Taxis cost Rs210 one way or Rs265 retum.

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