Thikse Monastery

Thikse Monastery is one of the most visually impressive monasteries in Ladakh, perched on a hilltop about 19 km east of Leh. The 12-storey complex resembles the Potala Palace in Lhasa and is the largest gompa in central Ladakh. It belongs to the Gelugpa sect of Tibetan Buddhism and houses around 60 monks. The monastery contains an impressive collection of thangkas, murals, swords, and Buddha statues. The highlight is a magnificent 15-metre high Maitreya Buddha statue added in 1980, commissioned to commemorate the visit of the 14th Dalai Lama. The morning puja held at around 6:30 AM is open to visitors and is one of the most atmospheric experiences in Ladakh.