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Shey Monastery, also known as Shey Palace and Monastery, is situated in the Leh district of Ladakh, India. This monastery was built in the 17th century by King Deldan Namgyal, and stands as a testament to the rich cultural as well as architectural heritage of the region. The royal family of Ladakh used to come here in summer and has a renowned 12-metre-tall copper-gold-plated statue of Shakyamuni Buddha. Shey Monastery is surrounded by serene landscapes with panoramic views of the Indus Valley and offers a serene getaway to the visitors.
Location
Photo: Kmohankar / Wikimedia Commons
Shey Monastery is located approximately 15 kilometres southeast of Leh on the Leh-Manali Highway. The monastery sits atop a hillock and commands a view of the fertile plains of the Indus River, making it a scenic place to visit. The village of Shey itself is historic and picturesque and stands at the gateway to other major monasteries and attractions in the region. Shey Monastery address is Leh Manali Highway, near Shey Palace, Shey, Ladakh 194201.
How To Reach
Photo: caffeineAM / Wikimedia Commons
You can reach Shey Monastery Ladakh either through air, road or rail:
By Road: Shey Monastery is easily accessible by road. It lies along the Leh-Manali Highway and is 15 kilometres from Leh town. From Leh, regular buses and taxis are available to get to Shey.
By Rail: The nearest railway station to Shey is Jammu Tawi, about 700 kms away. From Jammu bus and taxi are available to Leh and from there to Shey by road.
By Air: The nearest airport is the Kushok Bakula Rinpoche Airport in Leh, which is about 15 kms from Shey Monastery. From the airport, one can hire a taxi or board a bus to reach the monastery.
Places To Visit Near Shey Monastery
There are many significant attractions to visit around Shey Monastery for you to explore:
1. Thiksey Monastery
Photo: Bernard Gagnon / Wikimedia Commons
Located 4 km from Shey, Thiksey Monastery is one of the most picturesque and largest monasteries in Ladakh. Known for its striking resemblance to Tibet’s Potala Palace, it houses a massive 15-metre statue of Maitreya Buddha. The monastery belongs to the Gelugpa sect and offers a tranquil environment for meditation. The annual Thiksey Festival draws many tourists, providing a glimpse into Ladakhi Buddhist traditions. With its hilltop location, the monastery offers panoramic views of the surrounding valley.
Location: Thiksey, Ladakh 194201
Best Time To Visit: May to September
Entry Fees: Free
2. Leh Palace
Photo: Amit.bothate / Wikimedia Commons
Leh Palace, situated approximately 15 km from Shey, is a 17th-century structure that once housed the royal family of Ladakh. This nine-story building features impressive architecture influenced by Tibetan styles. Today, the palace serves as a museum, showcasing ancient artefacts, paintings, and historical memorabilia. Visitors can wander through the palace grounds and climb to the top for breathtaking views of Leh and the surrounding mountains. Its historical significance and stunning vistas make it a popular attraction.
Location: Namgyal Hill Leh Jammu and Kashmir, 194101
Best Time To Visit: May to October
Entry Fees: ₹15 for adults
3. Namgyal Tsemo Gompa
Photo: ShivaRajvanshi / Wikimedia Commons
Namgyal Tsemo Gompa, perched above Leh Palace, is located about 15 km from Shey. Founded in the 15th century, it is known for its three-story-high statue of Maitreya Buddha. The monastery offers stunning views of Leh and the Indus Valley, making it an excellent spot for photography. Visitors can explore its ancient manuscripts and peaceful surroundings, providing a unique blend of spirituality and scenic beauty. The gompa’s tranquillity makes it a popular retreat for meditation.
Location: Leh district, Ladakh
Best Time To Visit: May to October
Entry Fees: Free
4. Hall Of Fame Museum
Photo: Shyam.akirala / Wikimedia Commons
The Hall of Fame Museum, located 23 km from Shey, is dedicated to the Indian Army and the sacrifices made during the Kargil War. It showcases military artefacts, photographs, and weapons, providing insight into the history and bravery of soldiers. The museum also features exhibits on Ladakhi culture and heritage, enriching visitors’ understanding of the region. It serves as both a tribute to fallen heroes and an educational experience for those exploring the rich history of Ladakh.
Location: Leh, Ladakh 194101
Best Time To Visit: May to October
Entry Fees: ₹50 for adults
Where To Stay
Photo: Pixabay / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
There are several budget guesthouses and high-end hotels located close to Shey Monastery. In Leh, options like The Grand Dragon Ladakh offer premium amenities and stunning views of the Stok Kangri Range. Homestays in Shey village provide a peek into the cultural and traditional way of life of the Ladakhis. Shey Villa Homestay is one of the homestays in Shey that offers you a local experience that you’d never forget. Hotel Dragon and Hotel Singge Palace are a couple of the newer hotels in Leh. These have all the facilities that should be at par with present-day standards and are close to all points of tourist interest.
Where To Eat
Photo: Billjones94 / Wikimedia Commons
There are several places in Shey Monastery where one can enjoy Ladakhi cuisine. In the Shey village, small cafes are there that serve momos and thukpa. For a wider variety of meals, for instance, there are very popular restaurants such as Gesmo Restaurant and Lamayuru Restaurant in Leh, 15 km away. These offer Indian, Tibetan, and continental cuisines. Bon Appétit is known for its international menu, as well as for wonderful views from the roof. Chopsticks Noodle Bar is famous for its Asian flavours. There are some nice combinations of authentic traditional dining experiences mixed with modern ones.
Best Time To Visit
Photo: Karunakar Rayker / Wikimedia Commons
The best time to visit Shey Monastery would be during the months of May to September. The weather is very soothing at this time of the year, and the roads clear up. Hence, one might be able to explore the region’s natural and cultural attractions at their best with temperatures between 15°C to 25°C.
Other Factors To Consider
Photo: James Famdest / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Shey Monastery timings are between 8 AM and 6 PM. Visitors have to pay an entry fee of ₹30.
Tips For Travellers:
- Spend a day or two in Leh before visiting Shey to acclimatise.
- While Leh has ATMs, smaller villages like Shey may not have access to card facilities.
- Always seek permission before capturing Shey Monastery photos.
- The dry climate can cause dehydration. Drink plenty of water and avoid strenuous activities initially.
- Visiting during the annual Hemis or Thiksey festivals adds a cultural dimension to your trip.
Shey Monastery, with its glorious history and tranquil atmosphere, is spectacular in its beauty. Therefore, it is a must-visit for anyone exploring Ladakh. Whether you’re interested in spirituality, history, or simply enjoying the natural beauty of the Himalayas, Shey offers a unique and enriching experience. Plan your visit with TripXL and immerse yourself in the tranquillity and heritage of this magnificent monastery.
Cover Photo: Kmohankar / Wikimedia Commons
