Hemis Monastery is a Drukpa-lineage Buddhist monastery about 40–45 km southeast of Leh, making it a possible day trip from the city. Its setting, historic buildings and the biennial Hemis Tsechu festival give you several reasons to make the journey.
- Location: about 40–45 km southeast of Leh
- Getting there: motorable road; private taxis, motorcycles and scooters are options
- Festival: Hemis Tsechu is a biennial, two-day celebration
- Before travelling to higher-altitude areas: allow at least 48 hours of complete rest after arriving in Leh
Hemis Monastery and its setting
Hemis Monastery is a historic Buddhist monastery in the mountains southeast of Leh. The Ladakh Tourism Department describes it as the largest and wealthiest monastery in Ladakh.
Ladakh Tourism dates the monastery’s founding to the 17th century. The Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts gives the establishment date as 1672 AD and names King Senge Nampar Gyalva as its founder. Hemis belongs to the Drukpa lineage.
The monastery is renowned for its thangkas, murals and ritual artefacts. Its setting and cultural significance make it a distinctive stop beyond Leh’s urban sights.
How do you travel from Leh to Hemis Monastery?
A motorable road connects Hemis Monastery with Leh, and private taxis, motorcycles and scooters are travel options.
A government-run bus travels between Leh and Martselang via Changa and Hemis. It leaves Leh at 8:30 a.m. and departs Martselang at around 4:30 p.m.; check the official site before you go, as timetables can change.
From Hotel Mandala, Hemis Monastery is about 28.1 km away. For more city-based planning, this one-day Leh itinerary covers ways to organize time in the capital.
What can you see at Hemis Monastery?
Hemis is known for its thangkas, murals and ritual artefacts. The monastery’s rectangular courtyard in front of its main door is also the setting for the Hemis Tsechu celebrations.
The festival features masked cham dances commemorating Guru Padmasambhava. If you are planning a visit around the festival, its courtyard setting is a central part of the occasion.
When does Hemis Tsechu take place?
Hemis Tsechu is a biennial festival held over two days, on the 10th day of the fifth month of the Tibetan lunar calendar. Its masked cham dances commemorate Guru Padmasambhava, and performances take place in the monastery courtyard.
The date follows the Tibetan lunar calendar, so it varies across the calendar year. For wider context on celebrations in the region, the guide to festivals in Leh discusses local festival planning.
Hours, access and local guidance
Confirm current opening hours, entry fees, ticketing details and visitor restrictions before setting out.
Ladakh Tourism advises visitors arriving in Leh to take at least 48 hours of complete rest for acclimatization before travelling to higher-altitude areas. Keep that guidance in mind when arranging a monastery trip after arrival.
FAQs
How far is Hemis Monastery from Leh?
Hemis Monastery is about 40–45 km southeast of Leh.
How often is Hemis Tsechu held?
Hemis Tsechu is held every two years. It is a two-day festival that falls on the 10th day of the fifth month of the Tibetan lunar calendar.
Can you reach Hemis Monastery by road?
Yes. The monastery is reached by a motorable road, and travel options include private taxis, motorcycles and scooters. A government-run bus route via Hemis is also available.