Rangdum Monastery in Zanskar Valley – A breath-taking fort in the hills

Q: What are the nearby attractions to explore?

The nearby attractions and a few hours drive from Rangdum Monastery are:Parkachik Glacier which is revered as one of the most beautiful glaciers.Mamaleshwar Temple is an ancient shrine located in the town of Pahalgam.

Q: What is the best time to visit Rangdum Monastery?

The best time to visit Rangdum Monastery is June to September. The monastery is cut off for the rest of the year due to heavy snowfall.

Q: Are there accommodation options near Rangdum Monastery?

The Global Himalayan Expedition has set up homestays near the village for visitors. Hotels near Rangdum monastery are also available but they are quite a distance away from the monastery.

Q: Are there any cultural festivals or events celebrated at Rangdum?

Like most Buddhist monasteries, the Rangdum Monastery celebrates annual festivals featuring vibrant dances, religious performances, and cultural events that attract both tourists and locals alike.

One of the best places in our Ladakh tour packages and sitting atop a hill perched like a mighty fort stands a monastery, rich with history and overflowing with culture – the Rangdum Monastery in Zanskar Valley. Located between Kargil and Padum the Rangdum Gompa belongs to the Gelugpa sect and is situated at a height of 3657 meters.

With snow-capped peaks, you get a mesmerizing view of the valley on the backdrop of this mystical monastery. Like the many amazing places in the Zanskar Valley, the Rangdum monastery provides one of the main attractions in Ladakh and holds an amazing collection of Tibetan and other Buddhist artifacts.

The history of Rangdum Monastery.

The Rangdum Monastery is almost 200 years old and was built in the 18th century during the period of King Tsewang Mangyul. This monastery is located in the most isolated part of the Suru Valley and although a part of Suru Valley, it is culturally a part of Zanskar.

The inscriptions found in the monastery depict the origins of the monastery and the structure is said to have been built by Gelek Yashy Takpa during the reign of King Tsewang Namgyal II of Ladakh.

Home to almost 30 monks and countless donkeys, the Rangdum Monastery depends on supplies from outside. The land is almost barren due to the harsh weather conditions, especially during the summer.

A once-in-a-lifetime experience, a trip to the Rangdum Monastery in Leh is a must-have experience in your Leh-Ladakh tour.