Mesmerizing Ladakh – Part 7: Alchi Monastery and Temple Complex

The Alchi monastery and temple complex is located on the south bank of the Indus River at an altitude of 10,200 feet and 65 km west of Leh. The Alchi village is in the high altitude rain shadow area of Ladakh. It is laid out in four settlements on the banks of a tributary of the Indus River. The monastic complex is separate from the other village settlements. The Alchi village differentiate itself from other villages of Ladakh by being so lush green. The flood plain at Alchi is very fertile and provides good and relatively extensive agricultural land.

The monastery complex has three major shrines the Dukhang (Assembly hall), the Sumtseg and the Temple of Manjushri all dating from between the early 12th and early 13th centuries. In addition, the Alchi complex has two other important temples, the Translator’s temple called the Lotsabha Lakhang and a new temple called the Lakhang Soma.

The artistic and spiritual details of both Buddhism and the Hindu kings of that time in Kashmir are reflected in the wall paintings in the monastery complex. There are some of the oldest surviving paintings in Ladakh. The complex also has huge statues of the Buddha and lavish wood carvings and art work.

Inside the temples, photography is strictly prohibited.

On the way to Alchi - confluence of Zanskar and Indus rivers — On the way to Alchi – confluence of Zanskar and Indus rivers

On the way to Alchi - River Indus — On the way to Alchi – River Indus

Alchi Monastery - Woodwork details — Alchi Monastery – Woodwork details

Alchi Monastery - Entrance to the Lotsa Temple — Alchi Monastery – Entrance to the Lotsa Temple

Lotsa Temple - Details — Lotsa Temple – Details

Alchi Monastery - Detailed woodworks — Alchi Monastery – Detailed woodworks

Alchi Monastery - A prayer wheel — Alchi Monastery – A prayer wheel

Alchi Monastery - the prayer wheels — Alchi Monastery – the prayer wheels

Around the monastery - Apricot tree with fruits — Around the monastery – Apricot tree with fruits

Around the monastery - Apple tree with fruits — Around the monastery – Apple tree with fruits

3 thoughts on “Mesmerizing Ladakh – Part 7: Alchi Monastery and Temple Complex”

Thanks a lot for sharing wonderful pictures. It is a proud moment especially for me to see such beautiful landscapes and another natural attractions. My congratulations to the author(s). Regaards

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