Known as Tiger’s Nose due to its resemblance to it, Stakna is a small monastery in Leh established by a Bhutanese scholar and saint, Chosje Jamyang Palkar in 1580. The monastery sits on the left banks of the river Indus and offers wonderful views of the valley. Its co-monasteries are Stakrimo, Zanskar-Bardan, and Sani. It is believed that the law-keeper of Stakna monastery is the reincarnation of Stakna Tulku, the preserver of the Drukpa order of monks.
Best experiences in Stakna Monastery
Stakna Monastery has charmed not only the domestic tourists but also those from other parts of the world. The monastery offers beautiful views of the surrounding valley. Visitors can visit the special library near the Stakna Gompa where the gilded statues and paintings of the erstwhile Rinpoche are kept. Know from the monks the traditions of their lineage, learn meditation techniques from them to keep calm in general life and gather pearls of wisdom and best-kept secrets of the wise ones. Also, climb up the monastery to behold the beautiful views of the Indus valley. The statue of Arya Avaloketesvara, paintings of Bodhisattva, Padma Sambhava and Tshong-san-Gompa as well as Dukhang Assembly Hall with paintings of Sakyamuni and other artefacts are also worth viewing in the monastery.
How to Reach Stakna monastery?
The monastery is located 25 km from Leh on the banks of Indus River. From Leh, hire a local cab or board a bus going towards the monastery. If travelling by air, take the flight for the airport at Leh and hire a taxi to reach Stakna monastery via the Srinagar-Leh route.
When to visit Stakna Monastery?
The ideal season to visit this monastery is April to September. During these months, a special festival is celebrated in the nearby village in which even the monks participate by wearing colourful masks. There are cultural dances, music and a spectacular display of handicrafts during the celebrations.