Shey Monastery and Palace is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Ladakh, situated just 15 kilometers southeast of Leh. It is a must-visit for anyone interested in exploring the rich history and culture of Ladakh. In this article, we will provide you with all the details you need to know as a tourist visiting the Shey Monastery and Palace.
History
The Shey Monastery and Palace was built in the 17th century by King Deldan Namgyal as his summer palace. It was also used as a royal residence by the successive kings of Ladakh. The palace was abandoned in the 19th century after the Dogra army invaded Ladakh, and the royal family moved to Stok Palace.
The monastery was built adjacent to the palace and is home to a 12-meter-high statue of Buddha made of gilded copper. The statue was built by King Singge Namgyal in the 16th century and is considered one of the largest and most impressive Buddha statues in Ladakh.
Attractions
The Shey Monastery and Palace is a popular destination for tourists interested in exploring the history and culture of Ladakh. Some of the major attractions in the monastery and palace include:
- The Shey Palace: The palace is a popular attraction among tourists, offering a glimpse into the life of the royal family of Ladakh. The palace has a central courtyard and several rooms that were used by the royal family.
- The Shey Monastery: The monastery is home to a large Buddha statue made of gilded copper. The statue is housed in a separate chamber and is considered one of the largest and most impressive Buddha statues in Ladakh.
- The Thiksey Monastery: The Thiksey Monastery is situated just a few kilometers from the Shey Monastery and Palace and is one of the largest monasteries in Ladakh. The monastery is home to several temples and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
- The Stok Palace: The Stok Palace is situated about 15 kilometers from the Shey Monastery and Palace and is another popular attraction among tourists. The palace is now a museum and houses several artifacts, including thangkas, royal dresses, and jewelry.
Getting There
The Shey Monastery and Palace is situated about 15 kilometers southeast of Leh and can be easily reached by taxi or bus. Visitors can hire a taxi from Leh to reach the monastery and palace. It is also possible to take a local bus from Leh to Shey.
Visiting Tips
- The Shey Monastery and Palace can get crowded during peak tourist season, and visitors should plan accordingly.
- Visitors are advised to dress modestly when visiting the monastery and palace.
- It is recommended to hire a local guide to explore the monastery and palace and understand the local culture and traditions.
- Visitors are advised to carry cash as there are limited ATMs and banking facilities in the area.
- The weather in Ladakh can be unpredictable, and visitors should carry warm clothing and rain gear. It is recommended to check the weather forecast before visiting the monastery and palace.
Conclusion
The Shey Monastery and Palace is a must-visit for anyone interested in exploring the rich history and culture of Ladakh. The palace offers a glimpse into the life of the royal family of Ladakh, while the monastery is home to one of the largest and most impressive Buddha statues in the region. Visitors can also explore other popular attractions in the area, including the Thiksey Monastery and Stok Palace. It is recommended to hire a local guide to make the most of your visit and understand the local culture and traditions.
Book Your Flights : Here 30% OFF on Booking
Book Your Hotels : Here 20% OFF on Booking
0 Comment