Bardan Monastery, Buddhist monastery in Zanskar Valley, India
Bardan Monastery is a Buddhist gompa situated on a rocky outcrop in the Lungnak Valley, housing a large assembly hall with religious statues and small stupas. The buildings integrate into the steep mountainside, forming a connected complex that rises across multiple levels.
The monastery was founded in the 17th century, following a legend in which a crow dropped a lama's lantern at this precise location. This event marked the beginning of a long tradition of monastic life at this mountain site.
The monastery walls display traditional thangka paintings depicting the wheel of life, which play a central role in the daily spiritual practice of the monks. These images shape the inner life of the place and accompany the meditation and prayer routines of the community living here.
The monastery sits about 12 kilometers south of Padum and remains accessible via a maintained road during the warmer months from June through September. Visitors should note that mountain paths become difficult outside this season, and warm clothing along with sturdy footwear are essential.
The monastery complex features an unusual triangular courtyard entrance and houses a notable collection of religious objects crafted from bronze, clay, wood, and copper. This rare combination of materials reflects the range of craftsmanship that has been maintained at this location over centuries.
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