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Stanka Monastery, Leh

Stanka Monastery, situated at an elevation of 60 m on a secluded rock, lies at a distance of about 25 km from Leh. The numerous paintings and artefacts kept in the monastery are looked after by monks belonging to the Drukpa sect of Tibetan Buddhism. The temple was constructed by Chosje Jamyang Palkar, a Buddhist sage, in the year 1580.

The monastery depicts the tradition and culture of the 15th century. The monastery is now considered as a Buddhist heritage. A marble statue of Avalokiteshvara, a 'bodhisattva’ or enlightenment-being, who embodies the compassion of all the Buddhas, is considered to be one of the popular attractions of the temple. It is believed that the idol was brought to the monastery from Assam.

The monastery also houses a museum where arms and armoury belonging to medieval times have been kept. The Monastery is also known as ‘Tiger’s Nose Monastery', as the rock on which the Gompa is placed resembles a tiger leaping towards the sky. Tourists can avail buses or take up a 30-minute hike up the hill.

Stanka Monastery Photos