Chemrey Monastery

Situated at a distance of approximately 40 km to the east of the town of Leh, Chemrey Monastery was founded in the 17th Century by Lama Tagsang Raschen. This monastery belongs to the Drugpa order. It serves as the residence of approximately 20 monks of the diminishing Drugpa community, and also their young apprentices. Chemrey Monastery of Leh was initially built to serve as a memorial to King Sengge Namgyal. There are several shrines situated inside the monastery. The major highlight of this grand edifice is the high statue of Padmasambhava. The other notable item at Chemrey Gompa is the huge collection of ancient scriptures with the text emboldened in gold letters with the titles in silver. The two major highlights, along with the dazzling view of the surrounding areas make Chemrey Monastery a well-known and visited attraction in the Leh region. The site is frequented by nature lovers and photography enthusiasts. The monastery also serves as the venue for the festival of sacred dances. The festival takes place, on an annual basis, on the 28th and 29th day of the 9th month of the Tibetan calendar. The dances, at this annual festival, are performed in association with the festival of an initiatory ritual.