Thiksey Monastery, also known as Thiksey Gompa, is a prominent Tibetan Buddhist monastery in Ladakh.
It was founded in the 15th century under the patronage of the Gelug sect, the same sect as the Dalai Lama.

Thiksey Monastery is located approximately 19 kilometers east of Leh, the capital of Ladakh.
Perched atop a hill, it provides breathtaking panoramic views of the Indus Valley and the surrounding Himalayan landscape.

The monastery is renowned for its architectural resemblance to the Potala Palace in Lhasa, Tibet. The main prayer hall is a 12-story complex, a striking feature against the Ladakhi skyline.
The Maitreya (Future Buddha) Temple, with a 15-meter high statue of Maitreya, is a key attraction. This statue is the largest in Ladakh.

Thiksey Monastery is a center for Buddhist teachings, housing numerous scriptures, stupas, and paintings depicting the life of Buddha.
It serves as a residence for monks who follow rigorous schedules of study, meditation, and rituals.

The annual Gustor Festival at Thiksey Monastery draws large crowds. The festival involves mask dances, traditional music, and rituals.
The festival is not only a religious celebration but also a vibrant cultural event.

Thiksey Monastery actively engages in cultural preservation, passing on traditional teachings to new generations and promoting the rich heritage of Ladakh.

Due to its proximity to Leh and its cultural significance, Thiksey Monastery is a popular tourist destination.
Visitors can explore the various halls, chapels, and courtyards, gaining insights into Buddhist art and philosophy.

The monastery plays an integral role in the local community, offering spiritual guidance, education, and support.

Efforts are made to conserve and restore the monastery's structures, ensuring the preservation of its historical and cultural significance.

Thiksey Monastery stands as a testament to Ladakh's rich Buddhist heritage, attracting both spiritual seekers and tourists seeking cultural experiences in the tranquil landscapes of the region.

At Thiskey Monastery you can visit one of the most beautiful exxamples of the Eight Great Stupas in Ladakh.

In Tibetan Buddhism there are 8 types of stupas which refer each to one specific major event in Lord Buddha's life. In Ladakh there are many beautiful examples of the different types of stupas. In every day life, in Ladakh a stupa is highly respected and venerated and is of great importance.

The 8 different types of stupas are:

1. Type: Lotus Blossom = Buddha's Birth
2. Type: Enlightenment Stupa = Buddha's Atteinment of Enlightenment at age 35
3. Type: Stupa of Many Doors (Gates) = Buddha's first teachings after Enlightenment: Four Noble Truths, Six Perfections, Noble Eightfold Path and the Twelve Links of Dependent Origination
4. Type: Stupa of Descent from God Realm = Buddha's Retreat in Tushita Haeven at age 42
5. Type: Stupa of Great Miracles = Buddha's miracles at age 50
6. Type: Stupa of Reconciliation = Buddha's resolution of a dispute among the sangha
7. Type: Stupa of Complete Victory = Buddha's prolonging of his life by three months
8. Type: Stupa of Nirvana = Buddha's Death at age 80 and absorption into the highest state of mind