STONGDEY MONASTERY

One of the least explored as well as sacred monasteries in Ladakh, Stongdey Monastery is located around 18km towards the north of Padum on the road that leads to Zangla. Revered as the second largest monument in the entire of Zanskar Valley, this pious monastery shares its history with the Tibetan Yogi and Marpas.

Shaded with alluring white colour, the monastery was founded in 1052AD by Lama Marpa Lotsawa who was a renowned disciple of Naropa. However, Stongdey Monastery was later taken over by the Gelugpa sect and was dedicated to Je Tsongkhapa. Presently, it serves as a home to around 60 monks, who not only learns Buddhism in the monastery, but also preaching the life and learnings of Lord Buddha.

For the visitors who are planning for a delightful Leh Ladakh tour to visit this sacred monastery, they must plan their visit during the eleventh month of Tibetan Calendar. On the 28th and 29th day of this month, visitors can witness and participate in the grand Gustor Festival within their Leh Ladakh tour packages.