Alchi Monastery in Leh Ladakh

Image of Alchi MonasteryLeh Ladakh

Alchi monastery, in Alchi village, is the Buddhist monastery situated on the bank of river Indus on the altitude of 3100 mtrs. Alchi is said to be the oldest and most famous monastery in Ladakh. This monastery is maintained and takes cared by the Likir monastery. Alchi village is located on lower Ladakh region. This village has four settlements with monuments dated on the walls. These monuments are said to be “Unique style and workmanship” but Alchi monastery complex is said to best.
Monastery was built in between 958 to 1055 by great translator Guru Rinchen Zangpo and inscriptions was scripted in 11th century. Monastery has a painting made by Kashmiri artists, which has a touch of Indian art. This monastery has 6 main buildings.

• Dukhang ( Main Assembly Hall)
• Sum-tseg ( three-tiered temple)
• Manjusri Lakhang temple
• Lotsabha Lakhang temple
• The Lakhang Soma
• Kanjur Lakhang

Dukhang is the main assembly hall where monks perform worship and ceremonies. This hall is large and ancient. This hall has a veranda with columns which leads from front courtyard to the hall. The wheel of life, also known as Mahakal, is also visible at outer gate.

Sum-tseg, a three tired temple is the oldest in Alchi Monastery. This temple is surrounded by wooden pillars and is carved with the images of animals. The middle arch of the temple depicts seated Buddha with Green Tara (Saviouress) in the right and Vajrasattava (Bodhisattva) to the left.