Takthok Monastery, Buddhist monastery in Sakti, India
Takthok Monastery is a gompa in the Ladakh region with walls and roofs built entirely from rock, situated at an elevation of about 3900 meters (12,800 feet). The complex combines natural caves with constructed structures and houses a significant collection of 108 volumes of sacred texts along with approximately 55 monks.
The monastery was founded in the mid-16th century under the reign of Tshewang Namgyal. One of the caves at the site has been associated since the 8th century with Padmasambhava, a central figure in Tibetan Buddhism, who is believed to have meditated there.
The monastery belongs to the Nyingma tradition and draws pilgrims who gather here during annual festivals to worship and celebrate together. The community keeps ancient teachings alive by participating in rituals and ceremonies that have been practiced for generations.
The monastery is located about 46 kilometers east of Leh and is best reached by local transport after arriving in town by plane or bus. Being at high elevation, visitors should allow time for acclimatization and bring warm clothing, especially during winter months.
The monastery includes an ancient cave kitchen with large stoves that prepares hundreds of meals for pilgrims during annual festivals. This traditional kitchen operates using methods that have changed little over centuries and reveals the logistics behind the major religious gatherings.
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