One of the remotest monasteries in Ladakh, the Phuktal Monastery is located in the secluded Zanskar Range. Only accessible on foot, winding your ways through a series of steep cliffs, enigmatic rock formations, rickety bridges, lush villages, ancient Stupas and breath-taking valleys lead you to a monastery that lies hidden inside a cave on a Cliffside resembling a honeycomb; the journey to the Phuktal Monastery is as impressive as the monastery itself. During winters, trek to the monastery has its own magical charm making you traverse through the frozen Zanskar River – one of the most incredible and exceptional experiences you can have in your lifetime. According to the religious beliefs the monastery was once a home to many great saints and sages including the 16 Arhats or direct descendants of Lord Buddha and Guru Padmasambhava. Made up of wood and mud, the monastery walls are decorated with ancient frescoes and wall paintings that are a visual treat to eyes. Perched precariously in the mountain crevices, braving the atrocities of weather for thousands of years, the monastery still stands tall as a testimony to time. For brave-hearts and adventure buffs, a visit to Ladakh is incomplete without a visit to this ancient monastery.