Hemis Monastery is one of Ladakh’s richest and most famous monasteries, hidden in a side valley south of the Indus. Its large courtyards, tall flagpoles, painted verandas and prayer halls are surrounded by rugged cliffs. The monastery is especially lively during the Hemis Festival, when masked dances (chams) are performed before crowds of locals and tourists. Inside, Hemis houses precious thangkas, statues and manuscripts, making it a key spiritual and cultural centre.
About this place
History & highlights
Hemis belongs to the Drukpa (Red Hat) school of Tibetan Buddhism and is thought to have been established around the 17th century, although earlier hermitages may have existed here. It enjoyed strong royal patronage from the Ladakhi kings and later support from the community, growing in wealth and influence. The famous Hemis festival, dedicated to Padmasambhava (Guru Rinpoche), celebrates the triumph of compassion and wisdom. Over time, Hemis has become symbolic of Ladakh’s sacred monastic culture and is often highlighted in travel literature and films.
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