Login
Facebook
YouTube
WhatsApp
Twitter
Hanle Monastery, located in the calm and faraway region of Ladakh, is an attractive place known for its spirituality and breathtaking views as well as its cultural history. Founded in the 17th century, Hanle Monastery follows the Gelug school of Tibetan Buddhism. This monastery is famous for its architectural magnificence as well as its serene surroundings. Monastery is also not just a place to worship; but includes meditation and study for the monks within its premises. The monastery was established by Buddhist monks who travelled to this inhospitable region as missionaries.
Location
Photo: Deepank Ranka / Wikimedia Commons
Hanle Monastery is situated in India’s Ladakh region at approximately 4,300m (14,107 ft) of elevation, specifically in Hanle Valley which is roughly 255 km southeast of Leh. It is affiliated to the Drukpa Lineage of Tibetan Buddhism which constructed the place under patronage of King Sengge Namgyal. Located on the borderline of India and China, it was along the historic trade routes of Ladakh and Tibet. This site is also famous for another research facility called the Indian Astronomical Observatory thus the region is suitable for scientific activities. Visitors are subject to special permits and restrictions due to the nature of the area.
How To Reach
Photo: John McArthur / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
By Air: Landing at the Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport (IXL) located at Leh is recommended, as the cost of round trip tickets to Delhi is between ₹5,000 and ₹10,000. Hanle is to the east of Leh and is approximately 255 km away.
By Road: Travellers can book a taxi which costs approximately ₹6,000-₹8,000 per trip or choose other means of transport provided like shared taxis and buses which are much cheaper. Self-driving is also quite common as the daily rental is around ₹1,500-₹3,000.
Permit: As Hanle is located close to the Indo-China border, the Inner Line Permit is an essential document for foreigners intending to visit Hanle, which can be procured while in Leh for about ₹200.
Places To Visit Around Hanle Monastery
Hanle Monastery is surrounded by several other attractions further enhancing the enjoyment of the tourists.
1. Indian Astronomical Observatory
Photo: Darya Jum / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Indian Astronomical Observatory, situated in Ladakh, India, is among the few astronomical observatories available at high altitudes, which is 4,500 metres above sea level. Launched by the Indian Institute of Astrophysics, a research centre with a 2-m optical-infrared telescope named the Himalayan Chandra Telescope, which is a perfect place for celestial observations due to its low level of light pollution and clear skies. The observatory is located within India’s first-ever Dark Sky Reserve for the well-being of research as well as the economy.
Distance: 250 km drive from Leh
Timings: 4 PM – 5 PM
Best Time To Visit: Clear skies are optimal for stargazing from April to October
2. Kyon Tso Lakes
Photo: kamaljith / Wikimedia Commons
The Kyon Tso Lakes, colloquially known as Chiling Tso and Ryul Tso, are gorgeous twin lakes found in the secluded Changthang region of Ladakh. The twin lakes, near Hanle, are situated at high elevations and consist of beautiful turquoise water and serene views, providing a getaway from the annoying crowds of tourists. The two lakes are roughly 5,000 metres (16,404 feet) high, which contributes to their attraction among adventure lovers and nature admirers.
Distance: 58 km drive from Hanle
Best Time To Visit: June to September for the best weather conditions
Permits: Special permits are required for visiting this area; obtain them from the District Magistrate in Leh
3. Changthang Wildlife Sanctuary
Photo: Gwen Weustink / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Changthang Wildlife Sanctuary, which is found in the Indian territory of Ladakh, covers an area of around 1600 square kilometres and is well known for its cold desert ecosystem. The sanctuary is situated at an elevation ranging from 4,500 to 6000 metres and comprises spectacular high-altitude terrain with lakes such as Tso Moriri and Pangong Tso. It possesses a rich variety of fauna, which includes the very reclusive snow leopard, Tibetan gazelle, wild buffalo, and more than 44 varieties of waterfowl including the threatened black-necked crane.
Distance: 140 km from Leh
Best Time To Visit: May to October
Permits: Prior permission is required from the District Magistrate of Leh
4. Chumathang Hot Springs
Photo: Iryna Marienko / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Chumathang Hot Springs is a small hamlet located about 138 km from Leh in Ladakh renowned for its hot sulphur water springs. Located on the banks of the Indus River, these springs are famous for their alleged healing effects, especially on the skin. The place has beautiful scenic views, with tall standing mountains and calm waters, which makes it a perfect place for relaxation and taking photos. Visitors can relax in the warm water as bathing is permitted, and the services are offered close to the premises.
Distance: 2 hours and 40 minutes away from Leh
Best Time To Visit: June to September
Where To Stay
Photo: Ankit / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
In proximity to the Hanle Monastery, there exist several places to stay that will suit varying tastes. Padma-Sonam Guest House has warm welcoming rooms with shared and attached bathrooms. The next is Hanle House, a stylish homely accommodation that boasts all the luxuries of a modern-day place without losing the traditional Ladakhi accommodation. Kelsang Home Stay Naga is ideal for those on a tight budget with large beds and homemade Ladakhi food. Further, the monastery has also started renting out rooms providing a different perspective just by the spiritual centre of Hanle.
Where To Eat
Photo: Abhishek Sanwa Limbu / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
In Hanle, people can find only a few food places and this can be attributed to its remoteness. Most of the visitors have to eat in homestays, as there are no separate restaurants in the area. Most visitors choose Padma Homestay and Sonam Guest House, which serve delicious local food most of which is cooked at home. Such food usually contains thukpa noodles and momos which are staples in Ladakhi cuisine. It is wise to carry foodstuff for excursion trips as food can be very scarce.
Best Time To Visit
Photo: VENUS MAJOR / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Visiting the Hanle Monastery is advisable between May to September. This is because the weather is warm during this season with the average temperature ranging between 15°C and 25°C, suitable for internal and external activities. Spring (March to May) is also a good option, as the weather begins to warm up, but funny enough, peak tourism begins in May. Most of the tourists prefer visiting during the summer months as they get to see beautiful green scenery and active wildlife along with participating in local culture and festivities.
Other Factors To Consider
Photo: John Matychuk / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Average Cost Of Trip
For a journey to the Hanle Monastery, the excursion can be planned with an average daily budget of ₹1000-1500 per person. Low-end hotels or homestays range between ₹800 to ₹2,000 per night. Food at local restaurants also differs in prices as cheap dhabas may charge customers about ₹50 to ₹170 per meal, whereas an upmarket restaurant would be more expensive. There will also be additional charges for permits and other costs that would be around ₹200-₹300 per day.
Tips For Travellers
- A few days in Leh would be advisable to get used to the high altitude, especially since Hanle is at an altitude of approximately 4500m above sea level.
- Make sure you get an Inner Line Permit while in Leh because Hanle is situated close to the Indo-Chinese frontier hence entry is restricted.
- Pack warm clothes, sunscreen, and important medicines considering that the weather may be severe and there will be a considerable drop in temperature at night.
- To avoid getting altitude sickness and to help you retain your energy as you venture out, water should be taken in plenty.
Hanle Monastery is indeed one of the off-beat places that Ladakh has in store for travellers who are in search of tranquillity, spirituality, and picturesque surroundings. Be it the hardcore Buddhist culture or awe-inspiring landscapes, Hanle has a unique surprise in store for those willing to explore it, well away from ordinary tourist circuits. Plan your trip with TripXL and unveil Hanle’s scenic beauty.
Cover Photo: Saurabh Kapoor / Unsplash
