• By: Riyanka
• Nov 08, 2021
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Chemrey Monastery In Ladakh Is A Hidden Gem Waiting to be Explored!

Beyond the surreal beauty of the landscapes that allure and fascinate everyone, Ladakh has an enriching history & cultural vibrancy to dive into. Chemrey Monastery, a hidden gem in Ladakh, surely adds to that.

The impact of Buddhism can be felt everywhere and when I was planning my trip to this gorgeous land, I had a checklist of the places that I wanted to explore – which included some of the most popular monasteries of the region as well. Needless to say, Thiksey & Hemis Monasteries topped my list, and I was quite aware of their elegance & charm. Truth be told, they lived up to the hype, leaving me awestruck with the sheer beauty of their architecture and the peace that lingered in the air.

During my month-long endeavor in Ladakh, I also managed to explore some of the hidden gems of this region that tourists seldom visit.

On a sun-soaked afternoon in July, I found my way to Chemrey Monastery – a 400-year-old unexplored Buddhist monastery, where tranquility redefines itself.

From a distance, Chemrey looks identical to Key Monastery in Spiti, with the tiny white structures sprawling over a hillock and the topsy-turvy mountain trail leading to the main monastery.

What makes Chemrey Monastery worth visiting?

The main reason to visit this monastery is surely its peaceful ambiance and the fact that you might be the only visitor stepping inside!

Founded in the year 1664 by Lama Tagsang Raschen (who’s also the founder of Hemis Monastery), the monastery was dedicated to King Sengge Namgyal. Lama Raschen played an important role in spreading Tibetan Buddhism in Ladakh.

Currently run by a small group of Drukpa monks and their students, this monastery is home to some ancient Tibetan texts, a giant brass statue of Padmasambhava, a revamped Guru Lakhang, and a brand new library full of important religious texts and scripts. The fading murals of Sakyamuni, Kalchakra, Akshobhya, and the paintings of thousand Buddhas are also some of its key highlights.

Peeping from the terrace, on one side you’d get to see the stunning view of the Shakti Village below, which is blessed with fertile agricultural lands. And on the other side, stands the rugged Himalayas that are occasionally kissed by the floating clouds!

Unlike other monasteries of Ladakh that attract the crowd, Chemrey still stands as an exception.

What’s the best time to visit Chemrey Monastery?

Quite similar to the rest of the monasteries in Ladakh, Chemrey also remains closed during the winter months, spanning from November to April. The best time to visit would be from June to October.

If you are a photographer or a culture enthusiast, then you can plan to visit during the Chemrey Angchok – the festival of sacred dances, which takes place during the 28th and 29th day of the ninth month of the Tibetan calendar. It would surely be an incredible experience to watch the masked dancers performing, with such a stunning backdrop!

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How to reach?

Chemrey Monastery is located at a distance of about 40 km from Leh. While it can be spotted at a distance on the Kharu Chang-La highway, you’d need to take a detour on a narrow lane, through the Shakti Village, leading to this place.

Cabs are available from Leh, and it would cost around 2000 INR for a round trip. You can also club your Chemrey trip with that of the Thakthok & Stagna monasteries, which are on the same route.

Frequently Asked Questions About Chemrey Monastery

1. Where is Chemrey Monastery located?

   Chemrey Monastery, also known as Chemrey Gompa, is located in the Ladakh region of Jammu and Kashmir, India. It is about 40 km east of Leh, situated in a serene valley at an altitude of around 12,000 feet (3,658 meters).

2. What is unique about Chemrey Monastery?

   • It houses a two-story statue of Padmasambhava (Guru Rinpoche), a revered figure in Buddhism.
   • The monastery is known for its library of ancient Buddhist scriptures, including texts written in silver and gold.
   • Its location in a remote valley provides a peaceful and picturesque environment.

3. What is the best time to visit Chemrey Monastery?

   The best time to visit is during the summer months (May to September) when the weather is pleasant, and the roads are open. Monsoon and winter seasons may pose travel challenges due to rainfall or snow.

4. Are there any festivals celebrated at Chemrey Monastery?

   Yes, the monastery celebrates the Chemrey Angchok Festival, held annually in November. It features traditional Buddhist rituals, masked dances (Cham dances), and religious ceremonies performed by monks. Visitors can witness Ladakhi culture and spirituality during this festival.

5. Are there any accommodations near Chemrey Monastery?

   There are no accommodations directly at the monastery. Travelers can stay in Leh, which offers a wide range of options, including hotels, guesthouses, and homestays. Some villages nearby may have basic homestay options for a more local experience.

6. How much time should I plan for a visit to Chemrey Monastery?

   You can explore Chemrey Monastery in about 1–2 hours, including time to admire the architecture, visit the prayer halls, and enjoy the surrounding views.

If you wish to spend some time by yourself, soaking in the silence & serenity while falling in love with the slow life of the monks, then make sure to stop by Chemrey during your next trip to Ladakh! Truth be told, it’s a hidden gem in Ladakh that’s yet to be explored.