Perched majestically on a hilltop overlooking the Indus Valley, Chemrey Monastery (Chemrey Gompa) is one of Ladakh’s most stunning and spiritually significant monasteries. Located 45 km from Leh on the way to Pangong Lake, this 17th-century gem is a must-visit for both pilgrims and travelers seeking Ladakh’s cultural and scenic beauty. At Discover Leh Ladakh, we include Chemrey Monastery in our cultural and scenic tour packages, offering visitors a glimpse into Ladakh’s rich Buddhist heritage and panoramic Himalayan landscapes. 📍 Location & How to Reach Chemrey Monastery Distance from Leh: 45 km (1 to 1.5-hour drive) Route: On the Leh-Pangong Lake road (ideal stopover for travelers travelling to/from Pangong lake). Altitude: 3,800 meters (12,500 ft) – offers unmatched valley views. 🚗 Best Ways to Visit ✔ Leh to Chemrey Day Trip – Combine with Hemis, Shey & Thiksey Monasteries. ✔ Pangong to Leh Return Trip – Perfect stop to break the journey. ✔ Private Taxi / Bike Ride – Scenic route through Chang La Pass. 🏔️ Why Visit Chemrey Monastery? ✅ One of Ladakh’s Oldest Monasteries – Founded in 1664 by King Tenzin Repa. ✅ Stunning Hilltop Location – 360° views of the Indus Valley & snow-capped peaks. ✅ Sacred Relics & Architecture – Houses a 12-meter-high statue of Padmasambhava (Guru Rinpoche). ✅ Chemrey Angchok Festival – Masked dances (Cham) held every November. ✅ Less Crowded – More peaceful than Hemis or Thiksey. 🕌 Inside Chemrey Monastery – What to See? 1. Main Prayer Hall (Dukhang) Giant golden statue of Guru Rinpoche (Padmasambhava). Ancient Buddhist murals, thangkas, and manuscripts. 2. Sacred Relics & Temples Skull of King Sengge Namgyal (preserved as a relic). Kangyur (Buddhist scriptures) written in gold ink. 3. Monastery Courtyard & Views Photogenic vantage points of the Indus Valley. Prayer wheels & stupas surrounding the complex. 4. Chemrey Angchok Festival (Nov 28-29) Masked dances (Cham) by monks. Local villagers gather for blessings. 📅 Best Time to Visit May to October: Pleasant weather, clear roads. November: For the Chemrey Angchok Festival. Winter (Dec-Early April): Accessible but very cold (snow adds magic). 💡 Travel Tips ✔ Dress modestly (cover shoulders/knees). ✔ Remove shoes before entering temples. ✔ Carry water & sunscreen (high-altitude sun is
Perched majestically on a hilltop overlooking the Indus Valley, Chemrey Monastery (Chemrey Gompa) is one of Ladakh’s most stunning and spiritually significant monasteries. Located 45 km from Leh on the way to Pangong Lake, this 17th-century gem is a must-visit for both pilgrims and travelers seeking Ladakh’s cultural and scenic beauty. At Discover Leh Ladakh, we include Chemrey Monastery in our cultural and scenic tour
Perched dramatically on a hillock overlooking Stongdey village, Stongdey Monastery (also called Stongday, Stongde, or Tongde Monastery) is the second-largest monastic institution in Zanskar Valley and one of Ladakh’s most spiritually significant sites. Founded in 1052 AD by Lama Marpa Lotsawa, the famous disciple of Naropa, this 600-year-old Gelugpa monastery is a treasure trove of ancient murals, sacred relics, and breathtaking Himalayan views. At Discover Leh Ladakh, we include Stongdey Monastery in our Zanskar Valley tours, offering travelers a chance to experience its rich Buddhist heritage, stunning architecture, and serene surroundings. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know before visiting—history, festivals, how to reach, and why it’s a must-visit. Popular Zanskar Valley Tour Package https://discoverlehladakh.in/complete-zanskar-valley-tour-package-from-leh.htm https://discoverlehladakh.in/delhi-manali-leh-ladakh-zanskar-delhi-tour-package-by-road.htm https://discoverlehladakh.in/shinkula-and-gonbo-rangjon-tour-package.htm https://discoverlehladakh.in/zanskar-valley-tour-package-with-phugtal-monastery.htm https://discoverlehladakh.in/zanskar-valley-tour-package-from-delhi.htm https://discoverlehladakh.in/zanskar-valley-tour-package-from-manali.htm https://discoverlehladakh.in/zanskar-valley-leh-ladakh-tour-package.htm 📍 Location & How to Reach Stongdey Monastery Distance from Padum (Zanskar HQ): 16 km (30 minutes drive). Route: On the Padum-Nimmu/Zangla road, easily accessible by car. Altitude: 3,800 meters (12,500 ft) – offers panoramic valley views. Road Access: Previously required a short climb, but now directly reachable by road. 🚗 Best Way to Visit From Leh: 2 day road trip via Kargil & Rangdum (450 km) or 1 day road trip via Nimmu/Wanla. From Manali: 1 day road trip via Darcha & Shinku La pass. From Padum: Easy half-day excursion (can be combined with Karsha & Zangla Palace). 🏔️ Why Visit Stongdey Monastery? ✅ One of Zanskar’s Oldest Monasteries – Founded in 1052 AD by Lama Marpa Lotsawa. ✅ Stunning Architecture – Seven temples with gold-outlined black thangka murals. ✅ Gustor Festival – Masked dances & rituals in winter (Tibetan calendar’s 11th month). ✅ Wildlife Spotting – Home to blue sheep (bharal), red foxes, lynx, and snow leopards. ✅ Scenic Beauty – Lush greenery in summer, golden hues in autumn. 🕌 Inside Stongdey Monastery – What to See? 1. The Main Assembly Hall (Dukhang) Houses a golden statue of Je Tsongkhapa (founder of Gelugpa sect). Exquisite murals depicting Buddhist deities on black backgrounds with gold outlines. 2. Seven Ancient Temples Each temple has unique relics, thangkas, and manuscripts. The Tshogs-khang (main temple) is the
Perched dramatically on a hillock overlooking Stongdey village, Stongdey Monastery (also called Stongday, Stongde, or Tongde Monastery) is the second-largest monastic institution in Zanskar Valley and one of Ladakh’s most spiritually significant sites. Founded in 1052 AD by Lama Marpa Lotsawa, the famous disciple of Naropa, this 600-year-old Gelugpa monastery is a treasure trove of ancient murals, sacred relics, and breathtaking Himalayan views. At Discover Leh Ladakh,
Tungri Gompa (Nunnery) – A Hidden Spiritual Gem in Zanskar Valley, Ladakh Nestled in the serene landscapes of Zanskar Valley, Tungri Gompa (Samten Choling Monastery) is a Buddhist nunnery where a small community of nuns, including young girls, dedicates their lives to spiritual practice. Located 14 km from Padum, this peaceful retreat offers travelers a rare glimpse into the simple yet profound life of Buddhist nuns in one of India’s most remote regions. At Discover Leh Ladakh, we believe in promoting offbeat and meaningful travel experiences, and Tungri Gompa is one such destination that deserves more attention. In this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know before visiting—how to reach, what to expect, cultural insights, and why this nunnery is special. 📍 Location & How to Reach Tungri Gompa Distance from Padum: 14 km (30-minute drive). Route: Take the Padum-Kargil road, cross a bridge, and follow a scenic road to Tungri village. Altitude: Offers stunning views of the Stod River valley. Accessibility: The road is well-connected, with a small parking area near the monastery. 🚗 Best Way to Visit From Leh: 2 day road trip via Kargil & Rangdum (450 km) or via Nimmu-Zangla (170 KM). From Padum: Easy half-day excursion (can be combined with Karsha Monastery & Zangla Palace). 🏔️ Why Visit Tungri Gompa? ✅ Authentic Spiritual Experience – Interact with nuns and learn about their daily rituals. ✅ Stunning Valley Views – Panoramic sights of Zanskar’s lush greenery & Stod River. ✅ Less Touristy – A peaceful alternative to crowded Leh monasteries. ✅ Cultural Immersion – Witness the simple, self-sustaining lifestyle of the nuns. Popular Zanskar Valley Tour Package https://discoverlehladakh.in/complete-zanskar-valley-tour-package-from-leh.htm https://discoverlehladakh.in/delhi-manali-leh-ladakh-zanskar-delhi-tour-package-by-road.htm https://discoverlehladakh.in/shinkula-and-gonbo-rangjon-tour-package.htm https://discoverlehladakh.in/zanskar-valley-tour-package-with-phugtal-monastery.htm https://discoverlehladakh.in/zanskar-valley-tour-package-from-delhi.htm https://discoverlehladakh.in/zanskar-valley-tour-package-from-manali.htm https://discoverlehladakh.in/zanskar-valley-leh-ladakh-tour-package.htm 🕌 Inside Tungri Monastery – What to See? 1. Prayer Hall & Buddhist Practices The main prayer room doubles as a guest area in winter (warmer than other halls). Nuns chant prayers daily at 5 AM and follow Mahayana Buddhist traditions. 2. Simple Yet Sacred Architecture Clay floors, wooden beams, and traditional seating mats. A small stupa and Kangyur texts (108 volumes of Buddha’s
Tungri Gompa (Nunnery) – A Hidden Spiritual Gem in Zanskar Valley, Ladakh Nestled in the serene landscapes of Zanskar Valley, Tungri Gompa (Samten Choling Monastery) is a Buddhist nunnery where a small community of nuns, including young girls, dedicates their lives to spiritual practice. Located 14 km from Padum, this peaceful retreat offers travelers a rare glimpse into the simple yet profound
Following the recent and heinous terrorist attack on innocent tourists in Pahalgam, Kashmir, many travelers are understandably concerned about the safety of visiting Ladakh. In light of these concerns, it is important to clarify the distinction between Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh, and to reassure all travelers that Ladakh remains a peaceful and secure destination. Ladakh and Jammu & Kashmir are two separate Union Territories of India, divided by vast mountain ranges and governed independently. While Kashmir has seen a strong security presence from the Indian Armed Forces and continues to remain under tight surveillance, Ladakh has maintained its reputation as one of the most peaceful regions in the country. The journey from Srinagar (Kashmir) to Leh (Ladakh) takes nearly two days by road, further underscoring the geographical and logistical separation between the two territories. Even the Lt Governor of UT of Ladakh, Brigadier (Dr) BD Mishra (Retd), stressed on the safe tourism activities for tourists in Ladakh and called for the removal of Ladakh from travel advisories issued by the USA and other nations. https://x.com/lg_ladakh/status/1915341090892505489 Safety in Ladakh Ladakh has not witnessed any terrorist activities and is widely considered to be one of the safest and most tourist-friendly destinations in India. Tourists from across the country and around the world visit Ladakh every year, drawn by its breathtaking landscapes, unique culture, and warm hospitality. Local authorities, travel agents, hoteliers, taxi operators, and every individual associated with the tourism industry are committed to ensuring the safety, comfort, and unforgettable experience of every visitor. If you have already planned or booked a trip to Ladakh, or are considering visiting, you can proceed with full confidence. Ladakh wholeheartedly welcomes tourists from all corners of the globe, and the region's administration has assured all necessary measures to maintain a safe and secure environment. Situation
Following the recent and heinous terrorist attack on innocent tourists in Pahalgam, Kashmir, many travelers are understandably concerned about the safety of visiting Ladakh. In light of these concerns, it is important to clarify the distinction between Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh, and to reassure all travelers that Ladakh remains a peaceful and secure destination.
Ladakh, with its stunning landscapes, serene monasteries, and thrilling adventures, has become a dream destination for Bengali tourists, especially during Durga Puja holidays (September-October). Every year, thousands of travelers from Kolkata and other cities of West Bengal flock to Ladakh to experience its raw beauty and unique culture. At Discover Leh Ladakh, we specialize in crafting customized Ladakh tour packages for Bengali tourists, keeping in mind their preferences for nature, photography, shopping, and comfort. Whether you want a relaxing family trip or an adventurous journey, we ensure a memorable and hassle-free experience. For millions across West Bengal, Durga Puja is not just a festival; it's a feeling, a time for joyous celebrations, family reunions, and, crucially, a much-anticipated annual holiday. While many might flock to traditional destinations during this vibrant period, an increasing number of Bengali tourists, especially from Kolkata, are choosing the serene and spectacular landscapes of Ladakh as their Durga Puja getaway. This surge of visitors from West Bengal makes September and October a particularly lively time in Ladakh. At Discover Leh Ladakh, we understand this unique affinity. We specialize in organizing curated Leh Ladakh tour packages specifically tailored for tourists from Kolkata and all other parts of West Bengal. We don't just offer trips; we craft experiences that resonate deeply with the Bengali traveler's spirit of exploration and their penchant for discovering nature's hidden treasures. Why Do Bengali Tourists Love Ladakh During Durga Puja? ✅ Perfect Weather – Pleasant days (15-20°C) and cool nights (5-10°C). ✅ Less Crowded – Unlike crowded hill stations, Ladakh offers peaceful exploration. ✅ Unique Experience – A different kind of Puja vacation away from the usual destinations. ✅ Photographer’s Paradise – Pangong Lake, Nubra’s sand dunes, and Hanle’s starry skies are Instagram-worthy! ✅ Shopping for Local Treasures – Pashmina shawls, Tibetan handicrafts, and apricot products are favorites. Most Preferred Destinations for Bengali Tourists 1. Pangong Tso Lake 📌 *5-hour drive from Leh or Nubra* Famous for its changing blue waters (featured in 3 Idiots).
Ladakh, with its stunning landscapes, serene monasteries, and thrilling adventures, has become a dream destination for Bengali tourists, especially during Durga Puja holidays (September-October). Every year, thousands of travelers from Kolkata and other cities of West Bengal flock to Ladakh to experience its raw beauty and unique culture. At Discover Leh Ladakh, we specialize in crafting customized Ladakh tour packages for Bengali tourists, keeping
Tourism in Ladakh During Monsoon Season: Why July-September is Ideal for Visiting While most of India battles heavy rains and landslides during the monsoon season (July to mid-September), Ladakh remains a perfect escape with its minimal rainfall, open roads, and stunning landscapes. Unlike popular hill stations like Shimla, Manali, Kashmir, Uttarakhand, or Darjeeling, where tourism slows down due to incessant rains, Ladakh experiences a steady flow of visitors during these months. This article explores why monsoon is a great time to visit Ladakh, what to expect, and how to plan a hassle-free trip. Why Visit Ladakh in Monsoon Season? 1. Minimal Rainfall – A Rain Shadow Region Ladakh is a high-altitude cold desert, shielded by the Himalayas and Karakoram ranges, preventing heavy monsoon clouds from entering. While other parts of India sometimes face floods and landslides, Ladakh receives only occasional light showers. Rainfall frequency has increased slightly in recent years, but heavy downpours are rare. 2. All Tourist Destinations Remain Open Unlike Kashmir or Himachal, where roads often close due to landslides, Ladakh’s highways (Leh-Manali & Leh-Srinagar) stay operational unless extreme weather hits. All major attractions—Pangong Lake, Nubra Valley, Tso Moriri, Zanskar, Hanle, Turtuk, Siachen Base Camp, Kargil, and other major tourist destinations —remain accessible. 3. Pleasant Weather & Clear Skies Day Temperature: 20°C to 30°C (Leh & Nubra). Night Temperature: 10°C to 15°C (colder at Pangong & Tso Moriri). Blue skies with scattered clouds enhance photography opportunities. 4. Fewer Crowds (Except Peak July-August) September sees fewer tourists, making it ideal for a peaceful trip. Hotels are easily available compared to June-July rush. 5. Festivals & Cultural Events Ladakh Festival (September) – A grand celebration of local culture, dance, and music. Monastic Festivals (Hemis, Thiksey, Lamayuru) – Masked dances (Cham) and rituals. Ladakh: The Rain Shadow Sanctuary The magic of Ladakh during these months lies in its geographical positioning. Nestled in the rain shadow of the mighty Himalayan ranges, it
Tourism in Ladakh During Monsoon Season: Why July-September is Ideal for Visiting While most of India battles heavy rains and landslides during the monsoon season (July to mid-September), Ladakh remains a perfect escape with its minimal rainfall, open roads, and stunning landscapes. Unlike popular hill stations like Shimla, Manali, Kashmir, Uttarakhand, or Darjeeling, where tourism slows down due to
Drang Drung Glacier – Zanskar’s Majestic Ice River Visible from the Road Nestled in the heart of Zanskar Valley, Ladakh, the Drang Drung Glacier is one of the most accessible and visually stunning glaciers in the Indian Himalayas. Unlike other glaciers that require strenuous treks, Drang Drung is visible right from the Kargil-Padum road, making it a must-see attraction for every traveler exploring Ladakh’s remote landscapes. This massive river of ice, stretching over 23 km long, is a breathtaking sight, especially when viewed from Pensi La Pass (4,400 m). Whether you're on a road trip from Kargil to Padum or planning a day excursion from Zanskar’s capital, Drang Drung Glacier promises an unforgettable Himalayan experience. Drang Drung Glacier is one of the largest and most accessible glaciers in Ladakh, located near the scenic Pensi La Pass in the remote Zanskar Valley. Stretching over 22 kilometers, this magnificent river of ice is the source of the Stod River (a tributary of the Zanskar River) and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding snow-covered Himalayan peaks. Situated at an altitude of around 4,600 meters, Drang Drung is visible directly from the roadside near Pensi La, making it a favorite stop for road trippers and nature lovers exploring Zanskar. Unlike other glaciers hidden deep in the mountains, this one greets travelers with its grandeur along the Kargil-Padum route, providing one of the most stunning high-altitude landscapes in all of Ladakh. Visiting Drang Drung Glacier is a must for tourists seeking offbeat experiences, adventure, and unspoiled natural beauty. The glacier can be best best visited in summer time from May to September when the weather conditions are favourable. It is easily accessible from Padum, the headquarters of Zanskar, and offers excellent opportunities for photography, sightseeing, and understanding Himalayan glacial systems. Surrounded by the tranquil atmosphere of Zanskar Valley, a trip to Drang Drung Glacier adds a magical
Drang Drung Glacier – Zanskar’s Majestic Ice River Visible from the Road Nestled in the heart of Zanskar Valley, Ladakh, the Drang Drung Glacier is one of the most accessible and visually stunning glaciers in the Indian Himalayas. Unlike other glaciers that require strenuous treks, Drang Drung is visible right from the Kargil-Padum road, making it a must-see attraction for every
Karsha Monastery – The Crown Jewel of Zanskar Valley, Ladakh Perched dramatically on a steep hillside overlooking the Zanskar River, Karsha Monastery (Karsha Gompa) is the largest and most significant Buddhist monastery in the Zanskar Valley of Ladakh. Located near Padum, the headquarters of Zanskar, this ancient monastery is a must-visit destination for spiritual seekers, history lovers, and adventure travelers exploring Ladakh’s remote landscapes. With its golden stupas, ancient murals, and breathtaking views, Karsha Monastery offers a glimpse into Zanskar’s rich Buddhist heritage. This article covers everything you need to know before visiting—history, architecture, best time to visit, and travel tips. Tucked away in the breathtakingly serene Zanskar Valley of Ladakh, Karsha Monastery—also known as Karsha Gompa—stands as a spiritual beacon and architectural marvel. Located just beside Padum village, the administrative headquarters of Zanskar, this magnificent monastery is not only a prominent place of worship for Buddhists but also a must-visit destination for travelers exploring Ladakh. Why Visit Karsha Monastery? ✅ Largest & Most Important Monastery in Zanskar – Spiritual hub of the region. ✅ Ancient Buddhist Heritage – Linked to Guru Padmasambhava & Rinchen Zangpo. ✅ Stunning Location – Visible from 20 km away, offering panoramic valley views. ✅ Unique Wall Paintings & Murals – Dating back 1,000+ years. ✅ Peaceful & Less Touristy – Unlike crowded Leh monasteries. Popular Zanskar Valley Tour Package https://discoverlehladakh.in/complete-zanskar-valley-tour-package-from-leh.htm https://discoverlehladakh.in/delhi-manali-leh-ladakh-zanskar-delhi-tour-package-by-road.htm https://discoverlehladakh.in/shinkula-and-gonbo-rangjon-tour-package.htm https://discoverlehladakh.in/zanskar-valley-tour-package-with-phugtal-monastery.htm https://discoverlehladakh.in/zanskar-valley-tour-package-from-delhi.htm https://discoverlehladakh.in/zanskar-valley-tour-package-from-manali.htm https://discoverlehladakh.in/zanskar-valley-leh-ladakh-tour-package.htm History & Significance of Karsha Monastery Founded by: Attributed to Guru Padmasambhava (8th century). Oldest Structure: Chuk-shik-jal Temple (Avalokiteshvara shrine) with ancient murals linked to Rinchen Zangpo (958–1055 AD). Affiliation: Gelugpa (Yellow Hat) sect of Tibetan Buddhism. Houses: Over 100 monks, ancient thangkas (Buddhist scrolls), and sacred relics. Architecture & Key Highlights The monastery complex consists of: 1. Main Prayer Hall (Dukhang) Intricate Buddhist murals & thangkas. A golden statue of Buddha Shakyamuni. 2. Chuk-shik-jal Temple The oldest surviving structure in Karsha. Features rare 10th-century wall paintings. 3. Lamokhang Temple Houses a sacred statue of Avalokiteshvara (Chenrezig). 4. Stupas & Courtyards Several whitewashed stupas with intricate carvings. A sunny courtyard offering panoramic views of
Karsha Monastery – The Crown Jewel of Zanskar Valley, Ladakh Perched dramatically on a steep hillside overlooking the Zanskar River, Karsha Monastery (Karsha Gompa) is the largest and most significant Buddhist monastery in the Zanskar Valley of Ladakh. Located near Padum, the headquarters of Zanskar, this ancient monastery is a must-visit destination for spiritual seekers, history lovers, and adventure travelers exploring Ladakh’s remote landscapes. With its golden
Ladakh Astro Festival 2025: A Celestial Celebration Under the Pristine Skies of Ladakh The Department of Tourism, Union Territory of Ladakh, in collaboration with the Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA), is proud to announce the first-ever Ladakh Astro Festival 2025 on June 27th and 28th, 2025. This groundbreaking event is a dream come true for astrophiles, stargazers, and science enthusiasts, offering an unparalleled opportunity to explore the cosmos from one of the best stargazing locations on Earth. Why Ladakh? The Perfect Destination for Stargazing Ladakh’s high altitude, clear skies, minimal light pollution, and dry climate make it an astronomer’s paradise. Key locations like Hanle, Pangong Tso, Tso Moriri, and Nubra Valley are renowned for their celestial visibility, but Hanle stands out as the crown jewel. Hanle – Asia’s Premier Night Sky Sanctuary Declared a "Night Sky Sanctuary" due to its zero light pollution. Home to India’s highest astronomical observatory. Hosts the MACE Telescope (Major Atmospheric Cherenkov Experiment) – the largest gamma-ray telescope in Asia and the highest of its kind in the world at 4,500 meters. MACE studies cosmic phenomena like black holes, supernovae, and gamma-ray bursts. Ladakh Astro Festival 2025: Event Highlights 📅 Dates: June 27 & 28, 2025 📍 Venues: Public Talks & Workshops District Panchayat Resource Centre, Agling, Leh Expert lectures by renowned astrophysicists. Interactive sessions on astronomy, space science, and Ladakh’s role in global research. Night Sky Observations & Stargazing University of Ladakh, Taru Campus Telescope-guided constellation spotting, planet observation, and deep-sky viewing. Learn from professional astronomers. The First Astro Festival of Ladakh kickstarts in Leh June 27, 2025: The First Ladakh Astro Festival, 2025, commenced on 27th June, 2025 with a grand inaugural ceremony at The District Panchayat Resource Centre, Agling, Leh. The festival, a collaborative effort between the Tourism Department of UT Leh and the Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA), aims to foster interest in astronomy, promote scientific temperament among the youth, and boost sustainable astro-tourism in the region. The participants included a
Ladakh Astro Festival 2025: A Celestial Celebration Under the Pristine Skies of Ladakh The Department of Tourism, Union Territory of Ladakh, in collaboration with the Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA), is proud to announce the first-ever Ladakh Astro Festival 2025 on June 27th and 28th, 2025. This groundbreaking event is a dream come true for astrophiles, stargazers, and science enthusiasts, offering
Hanle, or Anley, a village in eastern part of Ladakh in Leh district at altitude of about 4,500 meters above sea level, is very close to China border and has become a popular tourist destination. Hanle village of Ladakh is believed to be the best place for stargazing. The high altitude plains here offer beautiful panoramic views. The Indian Astronomical Observatory is established above Hanle village for astronomical studies. The scientists chose Anley as a suitable place for this observatory due to many reasons. Hanle is a rain shadow place, which means the region rarely see clouds or rain. Secondly, the remote village is located at a high altitude plateau with almost no air or light pollution. These features make Hanley village a preferred destination for star gazing. Hanle village is also famous among tourists for its ancient monastery. The 17th-century monastery (gompa) of the Drukpa Lineage of the Kagyu school of Tibetan Buddhism is located at the entrance of the village in the right hand side. Many tourists reach Hanle with misconception that they can see stars, planets and galaxies from the Hanle Observatory. This is not true. Tourists can visit the astronomical observatory here for education purpose and to see how it works. But, keep it in mind that this observatory is teleoperated from Bangalore, not from Hanle. Many tourists also see photos of our galaxy that have been shot from Hanle and they think they also can see similar view with naked eyes. Yes, stars are brighter, thicker and appear closer from Hanle (if there is no cloud or moon). Even the strips of galaxies can be seen with naked eyes. But, those attractive photos are generally captured with professional cameras. You can see the wonder of nature with a telescope. Umling la, the highest motorable pass
Hanle, or Anley, a village in eastern part of Ladakh in Leh district at altitude of about 4,500 meters above sea level, is very close to China border and has become a popular tourist destination. Hanle village of Ladakh is believed to be the best place for stargazing. The high altitude plains here offer beautiful
