Rizong Monastery Ladakh
A Gelugpa monastery renowned for strict discipline, offering a serene escape amidst Ladakh's rugged beauty.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Clear skies, fewer crowds
Rizong Monastery Ladakh
Best Time
Clear skies, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A Gelugpa monastery renowned for strict discipline, offering a serene escape amidst Ladakh's rugged beauty.
"Peace peace peace.... A beautiful and peaceful monastery, quite deep in the mountains."
🚗 Scenic Drive to Rizong
The road to Rizong is breathtaking! Enjoy the mountain views and keep an eye out for blue sheep.
🚶♀️ Hike to the Nunnery
Walk down through fields to the nunnery for a peaceful experience.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Imposing Monastery Structure
Top of a rocky side valley
A grand Tibetan wood and stone structure, Rizong Monastery commands attention with its imposing architecture against a backdrop of rugged mountains.
Main Temple's Buddha Statue
Main Temple
Marvel at the beautiful, colorful wall paintings and a grand statue of Buddha within the main temple, a centerpiece of devotion.
Peaceful Nunneries
2 km from main monastery
Descend through fields to the simple yet serene nunnery, offering a glimpse into the lives of the nuns dedicated to their spiritual path.
Scenic Mountain Road
Approach to the monastery
The journey to Rizong is as captivating as the destination, with a scenic road winding through tall mountains and remote valleys.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Serenity: Plan Your Visit
Respectful Exploration: Monastery Etiquette
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Scenic Drive to Rizong
The road to Rizong is breathtaking! Enjoy the mountain views and keep an eye out for blue sheep.
🚶♀️ Hike to the Nunnery
Walk down through fields to the nunnery for a peaceful experience.
🤫 Respectful Conduct
Maintain quiet and dress modestly to respect the strict monastic discipline.
📸 Photo Opportunities
The monastery offers lovely structure and good photo ops, especially from the top.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Scenic Drive to Rizong
The road to Rizong is breathtaking! Enjoy the mountain views and keep an eye out for blue sheep.
🚶♀️ Hike to the Nunnery
Walk down through fields to the nunnery for a peaceful experience.
🤫 Respectful Conduct
Maintain quiet and dress modestly to respect the strict monastic discipline.
📸 Photo Opportunities
The monastery offers lovely structure and good photo ops, especially from the top.
🙏 Embrace the Peace
Soak in the profound peace and tranquility of this remote spiritual haven.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Rizong Monastery is lauded for its profound peace, imposing architecture, and strict adherence to monastic discipline. Visitors appreciate the serene atmosphere, beautiful temple interiors, and the scenic journey. Some find the strict rules unique, while others note the limited amenities and the challenging road access.
"Rizong monastery is situated to the west of Alchi on the way to Lamayuru. It was established in 1831 by Lama Tsultim Nima under the Gelukpa order. It is noted for its extremely strict rules and standards. It has the distinct reputation of upholding the Vinaya rules in strict sense so much so that the lamas of this monastery do not indulge in performances of mask dances or with rites and rituals. The monastery also has a nunnery, located about 2 km away called Thardot Choeling."
Vikas Singh
"Beautiful and peaceful monastery (Rizong Gompa), quite deep in the mountains, off the national highway from Ule. The road is scenic and is surrounded by tall mountains. We saw an herd of Blue Sheeps or Bharal on the mountain cliffs. The monastery itself is imposing and looks grand. The main temple is beautiful with colorful wall paintings and holds a grand statue of Buddha. There were no crowds when we visited and the whole place was peaceful."
Ankur Panchbudhe
"Tucked away .Imposing building.Enter from the top and walk through the different levels.
Tibetan wood and stone architecture.
Windy.
Walk down through fields to nunnery.Simple building."
Musicians Mum
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Rizong Monastery is located west of Alchi on the way to Lamayuru. You can hire a taxi or join a tour from Leh. The drive itself is scenic, winding through rugged landscapes.
The road can be challenging, with potential for boulders, especially after rainfall. However, it's generally passable for vehicles, and the journey is part of the adventure.
Yes, Rizong Monastery is an amazing place for a hike, offering a more immersive experience of the surrounding nature.
Many travelers combine visits to Rizong with Alchi and Lamayuru. Consider hiring a private vehicle for flexibility or joining a guided trek that includes these sites.
Public transport options are limited for such remote locations. Hiring a private taxi or joining a tour group is generally recommended for easier access.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Typically, there is no entrance fee for visiting the monastery itself, but donations are always appreciated to support its upkeep.
Visiting hours are generally from sunrise to sunset, but it's advisable to check locally or with your guide, as timings can vary.
No advance booking is usually required for Rizong Monastery. You can visit spontaneously, but planning your trip during optimal hours is recommended.
Visitors are expected to dress modestly and behave respectfully. Photography inside the main prayer halls might be restricted.
Yes, the nunnery, located about 2 km away, is accessible to visitors and offers a peaceful experience.
📸 📸 Photography
The imposing structure of the monastery itself, the scenic mountain views from the approach, and the main temple's interior (if permitted) offer great photo opportunities.
Photography inside the main temple may be restricted to protect the sacred artifacts and maintain the sanctity of the space. Always check for signage or ask permission.
Be respectful when photographing monks or their activities. Avoid intrusive shots and always seek permission if unsure.
Early morning or late afternoon light can create dramatic and beautiful shots of the monastery and its surroundings.
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is good for capturing both the architecture and the landscape. A wide-angle lens can be useful for the expansive mountain views.
🎫 🧘 Onsite Experience
Rizong Monastery is renowned for its strict adherence to monastic discipline and the Vinaya rules, making it a unique spiritual center.
You'll find beautiful wall paintings, a grand statue of Buddha in the main temple, and a serene atmosphere reflecting the monks' disciplined lifestyle.
Generally, Rizong Monastery is not crowded, offering a peaceful and serene experience, especially compared to more popular monasteries.
Allocate at least 1-2 hours to explore the monastery and its surroundings, including the walk to the nunnery.
Basic facilities might be available, but it's advisable to carry your own water and snacks, as amenities are limited in such remote locations.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the monastery's strict discipline might not be directly engaging for very young children, the sheer scale of the architecture and the peaceful atmosphere can be awe-inspiring. The hike to the nunnery is relatively short and can be a good way to let kids stretch their legs. Ensure you carry snacks and water, as amenities are limited.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Backpackers
Consider joining a local tour or hiring a shared taxi to manage costs. The hike to the nunnery is a rewarding experience, and the opportunity to witness the monks' disciplined lifestyle provides a unique cultural insight. Be prepared for limited facilities and embrace the simplicity of this remote location.
🧘 Spiritual Seekers & Meditators
Spend time meditating in the peaceful surroundings, observe the monks' daily routines from a respectful distance, and absorb the tranquility. The remote location further enhances the meditative experience, allowing for uninterrupted introspection.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Discipline of Rizong: A Monastery Apart
Visitors often remark on the profound sense of peace and order that pervades the monastery. The architecture itself, a blend of Tibetan wood and stone, is imposing and contributes to the serene atmosphere. The journey to Rizong, winding through rugged mountain landscapes, further enhances the feeling of arriving at a secluded spiritual sanctuary.
+1Beyond the main monastery, a short hike leads to a nunnery, offering a more intimate glimpse into the spiritual lives of the nuns. This dual presence of monks and nuns, all dedicated to a disciplined path, makes Rizong a unique and deeply spiritual destination for those seeking a contemplative experience.
Navigating the Journey to Rizong Monastery
+1Travelers often describe the drive as breathtaking, with panoramic views of Ladakh's rugged terrain. Some visitors have even spotted blue sheep (Bharal) on the mountain cliffs along the way, adding a touch of wildlife to the expedition. The remoteness of Rizong is part of its charm, offering an escape from the usual tourist trails.
While driving is the most common method, the monastery is also a destination for hikers. The opportunity to hike to Rizong allows for a more intimate connection with the landscape and a deeper appreciation of its secluded location.
Many itineraries combine a visit to Rizong with other significant monasteries like Alchi and Lamayuru, making it a key stop on a Sham Valley exploration. +1
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit