Alchi Monastery

“Alchi Gompa also known as Alchi Monastery is a group of ancient Buddhist shrines that together form one of the most important religious centres in Ladakh. This gompa attributes its establishment to the legendary translator Rinchen Zangpo, who built it in 1000 A.D. by bringing 32 wood carvers and sculptors from Kashmir.

It consists of several temples and chortens, which belong to different time period. Some of the oldest existing wall paintings of Ladakh are preserved in this monastery. Three large sized images made of clay painted brightly are its main attraction. The mural of 1000 Buddhas forms the highlight of the ancient artworks displayed here. Imposing statues of Lord Buddha and other deities are present in this shrine. These idols have beautiful wooden carvings and artworks, which can be compared to the artistic style of the Baroque period.

In present times, this gompa is counted amongst the prime attractions of Leh and is promoted as a part of cultural tourism in the region. Numerous tea stalls, shacks, restaurants and souvenir shops have been established near the monastery.

Some precautions to be observed while visiting a monastery:

Visitors are required to take off their shoes before entering a prayer area
Do not disturb Monks at prayer, and always ask permission before taking photographs
Do not touch religious artifacts
Do not drink, smoke, take drugs or spit in the monastery premises
Avoid talking loudly or disturbing the peaceful atmosphere
In many Gompa’s, you are expected to walk around the premises only in a clockwise direction
Women may not be allowed to enter the inner prayer rooms of some monasteries