Sum-Tsek, Alchi

Sum-tsek Temple is a part of the Alchi Monastery and is quite famous for its architecture. The term Sum-tsek literally means 'three-storied building'. The building is constructed in the Tibetan style of architecture with natural stone and loam as building material.

This small structure enshrines three huge idols of four-armed 'bodhisattvas' or enlightened-beings, standing at a height of 4 m each. The idol of Maitreya, the Buddha of the future also known as the Laughing Buddha, 4.63 m in height, is positioned at the centre of the floor.

On the left and right side of the idol, are positioned a white Avalokiteshvara, a 'bodhisattva who embodies the compassion of all the Buddhas, and an idol of Manjushri, a 'bodhisattva' associated with transcendent wisdom, respectively.