Hemis Monastery

Hemis Monastery

Hemis Monastery, located in the rugged landscape of Ladakh, India, is a place of deep spiritual and cultural significance. Established in 1672 by King Sengge Namgyal, this monastery belongs to the Drukpa lineage of Tibetan Buddhism. Hemis is not only the largest monastery in Ladakh but also one of its wealthiest, holding a vast collection of ancient relics, rare statues, and beautiful thangkas (Tibetan paintings on cotton or silk). The architecture of Hemis Monastery is a blend of traditional Tibetan and Ladakhi styles, with its whitewashed walls, large courtyards, and colourful prayer flags fluttering in the mountain breeze. The monastery is famous for its annual Hemis Festival, celebrated in honour of Guru Padmasambhava, the founder of Tibetan Buddhism. During the festival, monks don vibrant masks and costumes to perform sacred dances, a sight that attracts visitors from all over the world.