Hundur Monastery, also known as Diskit Monastery, is a Buddhist monastery located in the Nubra Valley of Ladakh in northern India. The monastery is situated in the Hundur village, which is around 120 km from Leh, the capital of Ladakh. It is one of the oldest and largest monasteries in the Nubra Valley, known for its exquisite murals and architecture.
History of Hundur Monastery:
The Hundur Monastery was built in the 14th century by Changzem Tserab Zangpo, who was a disciple of Tsongkhapa, the founder of the Gelugpa School of Tibetan Buddhism. The monastery was initially built as a small hermitage, but it was later expanded by his disciples. The monastery was destroyed several times over the years by wars and natural calamities, but it was rebuilt every time.
Architecture and Layout:
Hundur Monastery is a multi-storeyed complex with several prayer halls, stupas, and shrines. The monastery is built in the traditional Tibetan style of architecture with white-washed walls, red and gold accents, and colorful prayer flags fluttering in the wind. The prayer halls of the monastery are adorned with beautiful murals and thangkas, depicting various scenes from the life of Buddha.
The main prayer hall of the monastery houses a huge statue of Maitreya Buddha, which is 32 meters tall and is the largest statue in Ladakh. The statue is made of copper and is gilded with gold. The monastery also houses a collection of ancient manuscripts, statues, and thangkas, which are of great religious and historical significance.
Festivals and Celebrations:
The Hundur Monastery celebrates several festivals throughout the year, the most important of which is the Dosmoche Festival. This festival is celebrated in February and is dedicated to the deity of the monastery, who is believed to protect the village from evil spirits and demons. During the festival, monks perform traditional dances and rituals, and the villagers offer prayers and offerings to the deity.
Tourist Information:
Hundur Monastery is a popular tourist attraction in Ladakh, and tourists can visit the monastery throughout the year. The best time to visit the monastery is during the Dosmoche Festival, which is a unique and colorful cultural experience. To reach Hundur Monastery, tourists can take a taxi or a bus from Leh, which takes around 4-5 hours.
Visitors to the monastery are required to dress modestly and remove their shoes before entering the prayer halls. It is also important to show respect to the monks and the local customs and traditions. Photography is allowed inside the monastery, but it is important to ask for permission before taking pictures.
Conclusion || Hundur Monastery
In conclusion, Hundur Monastery is a must-visit destination for those interested in exploring the rich cultural and religious heritage of Ladakh. The monastery’s stunning architecture, beautiful murals, and ancient artifacts make it an essential stop on any Ladakh itinerary.
Book Your Flights : Here 30% OFF on Booking
Book Your Hotels : Here 20% OFF on Booking
0 Comment