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The Sani Monastery in the Zanskar Valley of Ladakh, India is one of the oldest Buddhist monasteries in the country. Believed to have been built in the first century AD, it has distinct Tibetan and Indian architectural designs. The monastery falls under the Drukpa Kagyu lineage of Tibetan Buddhism and it epitomises the religious culture of Ladakh. With breathtaking snow-peaked hills and greenery, Sani Monastery is an ideal place for someone searching for calmness and wishing to explore Buddhism. Touring Sani Monastery is an experience which nourishes the cultural and spiritual values window.
How To Reach Sani Monastery
Photo: Timothy A. Gonsalves. / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
By Road: Travelling by road is the preferred option to Sani Monastery. The monastery is nearly 6 km from Padum, the administrative centre for the Zanskar Valley and can be accessed through taxis or local buses. A trip from Kargil which is 240 km away involves a whole drive as there are no available flights.
By Air: Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport, situated in Leh is approximately 450 kilometers from the Sani Monastery. In Leh, one can hire a taxi or board a bus going to Padum. The road distance between Leh and Padum usually lasts about two to three days due to rough terrains and one must spend a night in Kargil Town. Further, visitors can also opt for Kargil airport, however, there are very few flights, hence, most people end up flying to Leh instead.
By Rail: Jammu Tawi Railway Station is the nearest railway station at 730 km from Sani Monastery. You can hire a taxi or bus to Leh or Kargil. After Kargil, one has to travel to Padum by road.
Places To Visit Near Sani Monastery
1. Karaul Lake
Photo: McKay Savage / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Karaul Lake is around 40 km away from the Sani Monastery. It is a high-altitude lake situated at an approximate elevation of 4500 meters above sea level in the Zanskar region. The lake, which is known for its beautiful turquoise colour, is encompassed by steep mountains, which provide views of the lake and the surrounding atmosphere that are quiet and relaxing. The lake attracts tourists for breathtaking pictures, trekking, and discovering the diverse plants and animals of the region.
Major Attractions: Karakul Lake’s stunning turquoise waters, surrounded by majestic mountains
Best Time To Visit: June to September
Entry Fees: No specific entry fee; permits may be required
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 2 days
2. Sani Stupa
Photo: Bharatahs / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The Sani Stupa, inside Sani Monastery, is one of the places of cultural importance in Ladakh. This grand structure comprises ornately carved and painted surfaces depicting Buddhist teachings. The tourist and pilgrim significance of the stupa, which is believed to contain the relics of the Buddha, makes it an important structure in the context of spirituality. Nestled in beautiful mountains, the Sani Stupa is a tranquil place providing an exquisite setting for self-reflection and understanding exploration of Tibetan Buddhist culture.
Major Attractions: Sani Stupa’s intricate carvings and vibrant murals
Best Time To Visit: June to September
Entry Fees: No specific entry fee; donations are appreciated
Ideal Trip Duration:1 – 2 hours
3. Nimu
Photo: John Hill / Wikimedia Commons
Nimu is roughly 50 km away from Leh and is famous for its amazing sights where the Indus River meets the Zanskar River. This place features a picturesque landscape of mountains and green valleys. Nimu is most well-known for adventure sports like water river rafting and trekking. The ancient Nimu Monastery is a well-preserved part of the village and boasts of Tibetan conventional designs.
Major Attractions: Confluence of the Indus and Zanskar Rivers, Nimu Monastery, and adventure activities like rafting
Best Time To Visit: June to September
Entry Fees: Free
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 – 4 hours
4. Stongdey Monastery
Photo: Prof Ranga Sai / Wikimedia Commons
Stongdey Monastery is about 18 kilometres from Sani Monastery and is one of the oldest and biggest monasteries in the entire Zanskar Valley. It is synonymous with the Zanskar region, which boasts an impressive 17th-century Buddhist monastery. It has an impressive assembly hall, embellished by divine paintings and sculptures of gods. One can go around the peaceful area, take part in the prayers, and absorb the atmosphere.
Major Attractions: Beautiful murals, ancient statues, and panoramic views of the Zanskar Valley.
Best Time To Visit: June to September.
Entry Fees: No specific entry fee; donations are appreciated.
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 2 hours.
5. Zangla Castle
Photo: McKay Savage / Wikimedia Commons
Zangla Castle, on a mountain in Zanskar Valley, is an age-old fort depicting the region’s values of history. Dated back to the 9th century, this old castle was home to the royal family of Zangla and was important in the history of Ladakh. The castle’s design in terms of its conformation and the purpose it serves brings in both historical and adventurous appreciation by the tourists.
Major Attractions: Historic architecture, panoramic views of the Zanskar Valley, and the Zanskar River
Best Time To Visit: June to September
Entry Fees: Free
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 2 hours
Where To Stay
Photo: Timothy A. Gonsalves. / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Most of the lodging options when visiting the Sani Monastery are in Padum, 6 km from the monastery. Padum has several options including guest houses, affordable hotels and convenient homestays. Hotel Rigyal and Hotel Geyskit are popular for their simple amenities and beautiful mountainside views offering a comfy stay for tourists. On the other hand, if you want to experience the culture, Chumik Homestay is a family-run business that offers its guests the chance to learn and appreciate the traditions of the local people.
Where To Eat
Photo: Matthew Hamilton / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Dining places near Sani Monastery are situated in Padum. The restaurants serve traditional food for the Newar, Tibetan and Indian community cuisines. Zasgyath Restaurant and Ibex Restaurant offer affordable, authentic and delicious delicacies of Ladakh, consisting of dishes like momos, thukpa, and parathas. To experience the authentic culture of Ladakh, some of the guest houses and homestays such as Chumik Homestay provide a Ladakhi style of eating, with the meals being prepared in their kitchens.
Best Time To Visit
Photo: Timothy A. Gonsalves. / Wikimedia Commons
Sani Monastery is best visited between June and September, since the weather is moderate, and the roads are easy to access. During these months, the Zanskar Valley is also at its best, making the surroundings even more attractive for sightseeing and trekking activities. Many visitors come for the yearly Sani Naro-Nasjal Festival which is celebrated around July or August.
Other Factors To Consider
Photo: Darkmoon_Art / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
Here are some factors to consider while visiting Sani Monastery.
Average Cost Of Trip
The average cost of a trip for a single person visiting Sani Monastery is likely ₹15,000 – 25,000 for a 4-5 day stay. To travel from Leh or Kargil to Padum, one is likely to spend about ₹3,000 – 5,000 depending on shared taxis in one round trip. Prices for Padum accommodation vary between ₹800 – 2,000 per night, depending on whether visitors choose guest houses or homestays. Meals cost approximately ₹500 – 800 per person. Other costs are permits and entry charges if any.
Tips For Travellers
- Be sure to make your reservations for hotels and transport services in advance, especially during June to September.
- Bring warm layers of clothes, sunscreen, shades, a cap, and a medicine kit for any emergency.
- Ensure you have enough cash because there are few ATMs in Zanskar Valley and fewer places where cards are accepted.
- Make sure to drink a lot of water and refrain from drinking alcohol to adjust to high altitude.
- Tourists are encouraged to wear appropriate clothing, and not take pictures without asking to respect the local culture.
- Inquire about road conditions and travel restrictions set by authorities before the journey as the condition of roads can be unpredictable.
Touring Sani Monastery is an experience which nourishes the cultural and spiritual values window of the region. Plan your visit to the monastery today and learn about the rich history and beautiful architecture. If you are a history lover, nature enthusiast or just looking for a calm holiday then Sani Monastery and its nearby attractions have something for everyone. Plan your trip with TripXL for a memorable experience.
Cover Photo: Timothy A. Gonsalves. / Wikimedia Commons
