Location: Samstanling Monastery lies between villages of Kyagar and Sumur. It is located about 124 km north of Leh city in Ladakh. This monastery is about 1 km uphill from Sumur village in Nubra valley, Ladakh.
Description: Sumur is the largest village of this region and has the famous Samstanling monastery. About 140 years ago, this monastery was founded by Lama Tsultrim Nima in the year 1841. There are about 50 monks who are residing in this monastery. Near this Gompa there is an ancient assembly hall, known as Du-Khang with Buddhist scrolls, various murals and frescos. The monastery has paintings demonstrating the Dharamchakra, the four heavenly kings and other teachings of Buddhism. There is a separate residence for the monastery head in the new monastery complex. Samstanling Gompa comprises of seven temples. In the year 1962, the Great Dalai Lama inaugurated this sanctified Gompa. The ancient architecture of this monastery enhances the significance of the valley of flowers. The best way to reach this Gompa is from Khardung La pass in Leh town. Along with a visit to this sacred Gompa, one can see the abundant sea buckthorn berries forests in Nubra valley which provide great business for the farmers residing in the valley.
Activities: This place is ideal to witness theancient Buddhist art reflected in the doorways and balconies of this shrine. The panoramic view from this monastery will compel you to capture it in your cameras.
