[Thikse Monastery, Ladakh, India] A famous temple in Ladakh towering into the sky

Thikse Monastery stands majestically on a hill along the Indus River, about 20km south of Leh.
Its appearance is reminiscent of the Potala Palace in Lhasa, with its tiered white walls and red roofs striking against the blue sky. It is one of the largest gompas in Ladakh, a special place combining majestic Buddha statues, deep faith, and stunning views.

👀Highlights✨

🙏Statue of Guru Rinpoche
The temple grounds house a gigantic statue of Guru Rinpoche (Padmasambhava), the monk who spread Tibetan Buddhism in Ladakh. Its shining golden form seems to bestow a sense of quiet security and protection upon visitors.

🪷Stunning Maitreya Statue
At the back of the main hall is a 15-meter-tall statue of Maitreya (Maitreya Bodhisattva), the Buddha of the Future. Its serene expression and colorfully decorated robes are an overwhelming beauty to behold.
This statue is one of the largest in Ladakh and is deeply revered by the local people.

🌄A sky-high gompa towering over a cliff
Thikse Monastery is built on the slope of a hill at an altitude of 3,600m,
and spreads out in layers as if reaching into the sky.
Its majestic scenery, reminiscent of the Potala Palace, is a popular scenic spot among photography enthusiasts.

🕉️A secret Buddha that appears only once a year
In one corner of the monastery, there is a special Buddha statue that is usually covered in cloth.
Once a year, the cloth is removed and many worshippers visit.
This mysterious ritual speaks to the depth of Ladakh's religious culture.

📝Basic Information
📍Access: Approximately 30 minutes by car from Leh city. Public transportation is limited, so taxis or tours are recommended.
💰Entrance Fee: 50 rupees
🕰️Opening Hours: 7:00 AM - 7:00 PM

Thikse Monastery is a sacred site representing Ladakh, home to magnificent Buddha statues such as those of Guru Rinpoche and Maitreya, a heavenly location reminiscent of the Potala Palace, and the special occasion of the annual unveiling of a hidden Buddha statue.

Every visit brings new inspiration and tranquility—
Any time spent here will be a spiritual highlight.

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Post by Hummy83 | Aug 15, 2025

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