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Why to visit Kardang Monastery
Kardang Monastery or Gompa is a well-known Drukpa Lineage monastery and the most important monastery in India's Lahaul Valley. Kardang, the associated village, was once the capital of Lahaul. The monastery is a massive white structure festooned with prayer flags.
Kardang village, located on the left bank of the Bhaga River, was once the capital of Lahaul and is home to the largest monastery in the region. It is said to have been founded around 900 years ago but remained in ruins until 1912, when it was renovated by a lama.
This gompa is perched scenically against the backdrop of the bare mountains of the Rangcha massif, which rises above the valley to give it a breathtaking feel.
Interesting facts about Kardang Monastery
- Sakyamuni is in the centre of the main temple, Padmasambhava is on the right, and Vajradhara is on the left.
- This monastery is home to the most lamas and chomos (female monks).
- Kardang Gompa's library is extensive, with full volumes of Kangyur and Tangyur (sacred Buddhist texts).
- The gompa's walls are adorned with colourful wall paintings known as frescoes.
- The monastery is run by the Drukpa Kagyu (Red Hat) order.
- It houses a massive prayer wheel said to contain a million strips of paper bearing the mantra Om Mani Padme Hum ('hail to the jewel in the lotus').
Entry Fees : free
Best time to visit : October-February
Visiting Duration : 5-6 hours on average
