1.5–2 hours₹50 Very High during festival, Low otherwise crowds
About
Founded in 1630 by Stagsang Raspa Nawang Gyatso, Hemis is the largest and wealthiest monastery in Ladakh, belonging to the Drukpa lineage of Buddhism. Located 45 km south of Leh, it is set in a dramatic gorge and houses an extraordinary collection of gold and copper statues, sacred thangka paintings (including one believed to be the largest in existence), and precious gem-studded stupas. The monastery is famous for the annual Hemis Festival (June/July), a spectacular two-day masked dance festival celebrating Guru Padmasambhava's birthday, attracting visitors from around the world.
Highlights
Largest and wealthiest monastery in Ladakh
Annual Hemis Festival — spectacular masked dances (June/July)
Largest thangka painting in existence (displayed every 12 years)
Founded 1630 — Drukpa lineage of Buddhism
Extraordinary collection of gold statues and gems
Practical Info
Timings
8:00 AM – 1:00 PM, 2:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Best Time to Visit
June/July for Hemis Festival. Year-round otherwise.
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