Situated at a distance of 45 km. from the capital city of Leh, the ‘Hemis Gompa’ is the most revered monastery in the Leh-Ladakh region. The largest and wealthiest monastery in India, the Hemis monastery is a top spiritual destination in Leh and is visited by many tourists and Buddhist monks throughout the year. An intriguing location with spectacular views of the surrounding mountains, an immense aura of serenity with fluttering prayer flags all around and to top it all, the beautiful architecture of the monastery, makes this shrine a must visit destination in Leh-Ladakh. Originally established in the 13th century, the monastery is built in a traditional Tibetan style of architecture with beautifully coloured walls adorned with paintings of Sakyamuni Buddha and a huge courtyard that plays the grand host to the famous ‘Hemis Festival’. Statue of Buddha made of copper, a rare and antique collection of Thangka paintings, murals and Buddhist scriptures and various Stupas made in gold and silver embellished with semi-precious stones are few major highlights of this monastery. The ‘Hemis Festival’ held annually during the months of June-July is a major attraction for tourists visiting Ladakh. Cham masked dances performed by the Lamas, traditional music, people dressed in colourful attires and a delicious local cuisine; entire city covers up in the veil of jubilation and festivities during the festival. This is also the best time to get a closer look at the customs, cultures and traditions of Ladakhi people.