1. Take a tour of the Hemis Monastery – The Hemis Monastery, located in the Ladakh region of India, is one of the largest and most famous Buddhist monasteries in the country. Visitors can take a tour of the sacred site and explore its many ancient buildings, including the main temple, the residence of the head monk, and the meditation cave. On the tour, you’ll learn about the history of the monastery and its unique architecture.
2. Attend a puja ceremony – Puja ceremonies are an important part of the Hemis Monastery and you can attend one if you’re lucky. During the ceremony, monks chant mantras and perform rituals to honor the Buddha. The experience is a great way to learn more about the Buddhist religion.
3. Visit the Mahakal Temple – The Mahakal Temple is a small temple located within the monastery grounds. The temple is dedicated to the deity Mahakal, a manifestation of Shiva. It is said that the deity protects the monastery and its inhabitants.
4. Shop for souvenirs – If you’re looking for something to take home from your visit to the Hemis Monastery, you can shop for souvenirs at the local market. Here you’ll find a variety of handmade items such as jewelry, statues, and religious items.
5. Explore the Hemis National Park – The Hemis National Park is located near the monastery and is a great way to explore the natural beauty of the area. The park offers a variety of activities such as trekking, bird watching, and wildlife viewing. You can also take a jeep safari through the park to see some of its hidden gems.
