Alchi

Alchi, located on the banks of the River Indus is a small village situated on low land and is about 70 km to the west of Leh. Alchi is also part of the three villages (all in lower Ladakh region) which constitute the ‘Alchi group of monuments’; the other two villages adjoining Alchi are the Mangyu and Sumda Chun. Alchi also blessed with tastier and delicious fruits such as plum and apricot in abundance. For adventure lovers, rafting is an option in Alchi. As it is located near Zanskar river, Nyemo-Alchi is popular with river rafters. Alchi is mostly visited for the 1000 year old Alchi Monastery. The village is famous for the existence of one of the oldest monasteries in Ladakh.  Alchi Monastery or Alchi Gompa is a Buddhist monastery, known more as a monastic complex (chos-'khor) of temples in Alchi village. Alchi monastery is a Buddhist worshipping place and study center. Alchi Monastery, mainly known for its magnificent, and well-preserved 11th- or 12th-century wall paintings, all in an Indo-Himalayan style. Alchi monastery is said to be the oldest and most famous. It is administered by the Likir Monastery. Alchi monastery is the Jewel among Ladakh's monasteries and is a Buddhist worshipping place and study center. The monastery complex was built, according to local tradition, by the great translator Guru Rinchen Zangpo between 958 and 1055. The complex comprises four separate settlements. A national heritage, it is distinct from other monasteries in Ladakh as it is situated on flat ground unlike others which are located on hilltops.