Stakna Monastery

Stakna Monastery

Stakna Monastery, often referred to as the “Tiger’s Nose Monastery,” is located about 25 km from Leh. The monastery gets its distinctive name from the hill it stands on, which resembles a tiger leaping towards the sky.

Founded in the 16th century by Chosje Jamyang Palkar, a revered Bhutanese saint and scholar, Stakna is home to a striking marble statue of Avalokitesvara, believed to have been brought from Assam by the founder himself. Today, it houses around 30 monks belonging to the Dugpa order.

Architecturally, Stakna Monastery is a treasure. Its Dukhang, or main assembly hall, is adorned with intricate murals depicting figures like Sakyamuni, Tsephakmad, and Amchi. The monastery also shelters several impressive statues, including a 7-foot-tall silver-gilt chorten with a figure of Lord Buddha. The walls are decorated with paintings of prominent Buddhist teachers such as Bodhisattva, Tshong-san-Gompa, and Padmasambhava.

Apart from its artistic and spiritual significance, Stakna Gompa offers breathtaking views. From its hilltop position, visitors can enjoy panoramic sights of the Indus River, which looks especially captivating at sunset.

Stakna Monastery Highlights

  • Appreciate the intricate Tibetan-style architecture that gives Stakna Monastery its unique charm.

  • See the revered statue of Avalokiteshvara Buddha, believed to have been brought here from Assam by the monastery’s founder.

  • Experience a breathtaking sunset from the monastery courtyard, with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and the flowing Indus River.

How to Reach Stakna Monastery
Stakna Monastery lies just outside Leh on the Leh–Manali Highway, en route to Karu, and can be accessed in multiple ways:

  • By Bus: Several local buses operate along the Leh–Manali Highway. A direct bus runs between Leh and Stakna twice daily. You can also board any bus heading toward Sakti or Manali, get down along the highway, and walk a short distance to reach the monastery.

  • By Bike: Renting a bike or scooter in Leh is a popular option. The ride to Stakna is scenic, though the route has narrow stretches and sharp bends that require careful riding.

Best Time to Visit Stakna Monastery
The most rewarding time to explore Stakna Monastery is in the early evening, when crowds are thinner, and the golden sunlight beautifully illuminates the structure and its surroundings. Season-wise, the ideal window is from May to September, when the weather is pleasant, skies are clear, and conditions are perfect for sightseeing and photography.