The Monastrey at Thiksey

Barely 20 kms from leh is the beautifull & impressive Thiksey Gompa built in the 15th century. it is referred to as the mini Potala as it resembles the Potala Palace in Tibet.it is a 12 storeyed building with as many as 10 temples and a nunnery. A good climb from the car parking area gives some wonderful views of the surrounding countryside.

statue of Maitreya Buddha sitting in the Lotus position a really dazzling work of art, the statue is embellished with gold, turquoise, Lapiz Lazuli etc

A view of the ceiling, found this to be very common in most of the Gompas

Ha ha! a devotee has offered moisturizer - the monks are getting a makeover!!!

The ornate exit