Morning visit to local Immambarah and Turkish inspired architectural structures from the Silk route days, when this used too be a major stop for Central Asian trade route. Later drive to Leh. Enroute visit Mulbekh Monastery, perched on a mountain over the village of the same name, known for the huge image of Buddha carved from a giant rock. After Mulbekh, continue on to Alchi and Likir Monasteries. These monasteries house Buddha and renowned 1000-year-old religious wall paintings. Likir Gompa : Founded in the 11th century and rededicated to a different monastic order in the 15th century, its earlier Gompa was destroyed in a fire. The present Gompa dated back to the 18th century. Skilled craftsmen producing excellent Thankas, earthen pots and carved wooden folding stools, live here in the village. Majestically situated, Likir commands a spectacular view. A magnificent giant Jupiter tree, one of the few survivors of its species, stands in the courtyard.
Alchi Gompa : 70 Kms from Leh, on the banks of the Indus, is the Alchi Gompa dating a thousand years back. One of its walls features thousands of miniature sized pictures of the Buddha. Three large sized images made of clay and painted brightly are its focal attractions. No longer an active religious center, it is looked after by monks from the Liker monastery. This is the only monastery amongst 34 monasteries, which is not located on a hilltop. Arrive Leh by the late evening and upon arrival, check into your hotel for an overnight stay.
Overnight: Hotel