Zangla Monastery is one of the famous monasteries in Leh-Ladakh. Nestled in the snow-clad Himalayas, Leh and Ladakh have been the centers of Tibeto-Buddhist culture since ancient times. Dotted with uplands, barren cliffs and plateaus, Leh-Ladakh is ideal for trekking. A major attraction of Leh-Ladakh is the vibrant Ladakh Festival, comprising of mask dance and peacock dance.
About Zangla Monastery :
Zangla, a village of Leh- Ladakh can be reached after 5 long hour walk that starts from Tonde along the right bank of River Zanskar. Zangla is a famous Buddhist monastery located between the Stongdey and Zangla village situated in the nearby village of Tsa-zar. The monastery bears the same name as that the village it belongs. The 240 km long Kargil-Padum Road helps the visitors to reach the Zangla Monastery. The monastery is a home to over 150 lamas. It is adorned with some of the marvelous paintings. There is a hilltop castle which is now in ruins.The King of Zangla lives now a day in the village amongst the common people. There is an old nunnery near by the monastery that deserves a visit. Zangla Monastery is a prime tourist attraction in Leh- Ladakh region of Jammu & Kashmir.
Prime Attraction :
Situated near to the ruined castle is the old Nunnery worth a visit for the austere life style of the small monastic community of nuns. An old monastery situated in the nearby village of Tsa-zar has exquisite frescos that shouldn’t be missed. The village lies mid-way between Stongdey and Zangla.
Major Attractions :
Situated at an altitude of about 3,370 m, the village and the nearby valley is an ideal spot for trekking. The Padum-Markha Valley Treks starting from Zangla are very popular among adventure enthusiasts. The famous trek route ‘Padum-Stongdey-Zangla-Karsha-Padum’ covers almost all the natural and cultural sites of Zanskar.
There is a ruined fort of the titular king of Zangla. Near the fort, lies a beautiful monastery, home to more than 150 lamas and adorned with some exquisite wall paintings and frescos. One can also find an old Nunnery at Zangla, which is worth a visit for the life style of the monastic community of nuns.
The Untouched Centre of Tibeto-Buddhist Culture :
Nestled in the snow-clad Himalayas, Zangla is a gorgeous destination dotted with uplands, barren cliffs and plateaus. The village of Zangla can be reached after a 5 hour walk from Tonde, along the right bank of the river Zanskar. Ruled by a titular king till 1989, Zangla lies to the north of Zanskar, 35 km from Padum. The time period of June to early November is considered the best for visiting Zangla.
How To Get There :
Zangla is easily accessible from Kargil as well as Padum. The route is open from around mid July to early November. TheJ&K SRTC (State Road Transport Corporation) operates a tri-weekly bus service from Kargil. Besides A-Class buses, Super-Deluxe buses, Jeeps and Gypsy taxis can also be hired at Kargil. In the months of June-July, Zangla can also be reached through the nearby trek routes.
Accommodation :
The villagers provide rooms on rent to tourists for long stays. One can also find accommodation in the nearby monasteries. There are several private hotels and a Tourist Complex at Padum that offers well furnished rooms. Moreover, camping sites and tents in the region are also popular for adventurous stay.
Location : 35 kms away from Padum in Zanskar region
Altitude : 3, 370 m
Best Time for Darshan : June to November