How to Get There

Chemrey Monastery is located about 40 km southeast of Leh, in Chemrey village, on the way to Pangong Tso via Sakti. The drive takes about 1.5 hours. The road is fully motorable and connects through Karu and Sakti, making it easy to visit along with Hemis or en route to Pangong.

What to Expect

Chemrey Gompa is a 17th-century monastery belonging to the Drukpa (Red Hat) sect. It sits dramatically on a hill with whitewashed buildings stacked against the slope, backed by dry brown mountains, classic Ladakh imagery. Inside, you’ll find a large statue of Padmasambhava, ancient scriptures, thangkas, and colorful murals. The main prayer hall (du-khang) is beautifully preserved, and there’s a long stairway leading up through the monk quarters. The monastery is active, with monks living and studying here, but it sees very few tourists, making it a calm, spiritual place to stop.

For the Curious

• Founded in 1664 by Tagsang Raschen, under the patronage of the king of Ladakh.

• Houses a one story high statue of Guru Rinpoche (Padmasambhava).

• The library contains old Tibetan scriptures written in gold and silver ink.

• Annual festival: Chemrey Angchok, held in the 9th Tibetan month (around November), features masked dances but is low-key compared to Hemis.

Good to Know

• Entry fee: ₹30–50 (may vary).

• Open during daylight hours, typically from 8 AM to 5 PM.

• Photography is allowed outside; ask before clicking inside.

• No food stalls nearby, carry water/snacks.

• Combine with a visit to Hemis, Takthok Monastery, or use as a cultural stop en route to Pangong.

• No permits needed to visit Chemrey.