Stok Monastery is a Buddhist Monastery in Leh district, Ladakh, Jammu & Kashmir, India. Lama Lhawang Lotus has founded this monastery in 14th century.
What to see at Stok Monastery: This is one of the beautiful places for the natural lovers and trekking lovers. It is surrounded by Indus valley, Markha valley and Stock Kangri Ranges. This was established 200 years ago. Museum is the other attraction of this monastery. Museum says about the life of Ladakh royals, weapons, currencies. Artifacts of the royal Palace can also be seen in this museum. This gompa belongs to Gelugpa sect. of Buddhism.
Other attractions of this monastery are library, Chortens, Temples, Verandah, Courtyard, and Assembly Hall. Along with Buddhists, several other religion people alos visits this place. Wall paintings are other attractions of this monastery. Images of Amchi, Nangyalma, Tara, Skayamuni, Avalokitesvara, and Vajrapani of this place are so beautiful.
One oldest Chapel is also situated here. Image of Avalokitesvara is having 11 heads and 1000 hands. Recently one more temple was constructed in this place. This temple is dedicated to Avalokitesvara. Library consists of 108 volumes of Buddha’s teachings. Major festival celebrates at this monastery is Stok Guru Tsechu. Main attraction of this festival is music, dance and festive food. Another major attraction of this monastery is trekking.
What to see around Stok Monastery:
Leh Palace: In 17th century this was acted as royal residence. Victory on the top of the Namgyal hill is another attraction. This tower was built as a mark of victory over Ballti Kashmir armies.
Mangyu Monastery: Major attractions of this monastery are paintings of mandalas, and rare thangkas.
Rizong Monastery: It looks like fortress. This gompa belongs to Gelukpa order of Buddhism.
War Museum: Other name is wall of fame. This museum showcases the war effort and Sacrifice of the Indian Army in its war against Pakistan.
Sankar Gompa: This place is famous for the statue of Avalokiteshwara Padmahari or Chenresig. This statue has thousands of heads and arms.
Nubra Valley: It is high altitude desert which is well known for its beauty. This valley separates Karakoram and Ladakh.
Shanti Stupa: It has white domed monument with backdrop of brown mountains.
Rangdum Monastery: It lies between Kargil and padum. Main attraction of this monastery is assembly hall. This hall has beautiful status.
Sani Monastery: It is one of the 8 most sacred places for Buddhists. This place is most famous among Tibetan Buddhism. This monastery has ancient chortens. It is constructed by Emperor Kanishka. Attractions of this Gompa are idols, paintings and murals of Saint Padmasambhava.
Magnetic Hill: Due to magnetic force of the hill cars will be pulled upwards. It is 27kms away from Leh.
Getting to Stok Monastery: Only way to reach this place is through road way. Before reaching this place one has to reach Leh. This place can be reached either from Srinagar or from Manali. Both routes are mountain routes. Sometimes these routes will be blocked due to landslides. From Leh, Jeeps and Taxis are available to reach this monastery. Bus services to this gompa are very limited. Nearest railway station is located at Kalka. Taxis and Buses are available to reach Manali. Then taxis and buses are available to reach Leh from Manali. Nearest airport is located at Leh.
Getting around Stok Monastery: This gompa can be explored on foot. From Leh, visitors can see the surrounding places of this gompa via buses and taxis.
Best time to visit Stok Monastery: Best time to visit Stok Monastery is between May and September.
Where to stay in Stok Monastery: Accommodations are not available at this place. Leh and Shey were the options to stay near this monastery.
Where to eat in Stok Monastery: Limited eating options at this monastery. Chinese and Tibetan Food are available to have food at this monastery.