Karsha Monastery, Buddhist monastery in Padum Valley, Zanskar, India
Karsha Monastery is a Buddhist monastery with white buildings stacked across mountain slopes, positioned near where the Doda River flows through the valley. The complex contains multiple temples and chambers arranged across the hillside, climbing upward in connected levels.
The monastery was founded in the 10th century and contains wall paintings dating from the period between 958 and 1055. During those centuries, this valley became an important center for spreading and deepening Buddhist practice across the region.
The monks who live here follow Gelugpa Buddhism and have shaped the community in ways you can observe in their daily routines when visiting. The monastery demonstrates how religious practice deeply influences life in this remote valley.
The monastery sits about 9 kilometers from Padum and is most accessible during July to September when weather conditions are stable. Visitors should wear sturdy footwear, as the path is mountainous and often steep.
The monastery houses a statue of Lhaso Cho Rinpoche brought from Lhasa in the 1960s, decorated with a crown made of carnelian and turquoise stones. This rare craftsmanship reflects the connection to Tibet and the spiritual importance this figure holds for worshippers.
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