Shey Palace and Monastery
Historic summer capital of Ladakh, featuring a colossal golden Buddha statue and stunning Indus Valley views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Avoid midday heat & crowds
Shey Palace and Monastery
Best Time
Avoid midday heat & crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Historic summer capital of Ladakh, featuring a colossal golden Buddha statue and stunning Indus Valley views.
"Marvel at the 10m high copper statue of Lord Buddha and soak in breathtaking views."
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Lots of stairs and steep climbs! Good footwear is essential for exploring Shey Palace and Monastery.
💧 Carry Water & Snacks
Stay hydrated during your visit, especially during the climb. Small shops are available at the base.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Giant Shakyamuni Buddha Statue
Monastery
Marvel at the colossal, gold-plated copper statue of Lord Buddha, a breathtaking centerpiece.
Panoramic Indus Valley Views
Top of the hillock
Soak in stunning, sweeping vistas of the surrounding valleys and landscape from the hilltop.
Ancient Palace Ruins
Palace complex
Explore the historic remnants of the former summer capital, offering a glimpse into Ladakh's past.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds and Heat
Prepare for the Climb
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Lots of stairs and steep climbs! Good footwear is essential for exploring Shey Palace and Monastery.
💧 Carry Water & Snacks
Stay hydrated during your visit, especially during the climb. Small shops are available at the base.
📸 Capture the Views
The panoramic views from the top are incredible. Don't forget your camera for stunning photos!
🙏 Respect the Monastery
Be mindful of prayer times and maintain a respectful demeanor within the monastery.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Lots of stairs and steep climbs! Good footwear is essential for exploring Shey Palace and Monastery.
💧 Carry Water & Snacks
Stay hydrated during your visit, especially during the climb. Small shops are available at the base.
📸 Capture the Views
The panoramic views from the top are incredible. Don't forget your camera for stunning photos!
🙏 Respect the Monastery
Be mindful of prayer times and maintain a respectful demeanor within the monastery.
🚶♂️ Hike the Fort Behind
For an even more breathtaking experience, hike the fort located just behind the palace.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Shey Palace and Monastery is praised for its magnificent golden Buddha statue and breathtaking views of the Indus Valley. While the palace itself is in ruins and undergoing restoration, the monastery offers a serene spiritual experience. Some visitors find the climb strenuous and note that parts of the complex could be better maintained.
"There is a monestry on top of. Palace is being restored. Lot and lot to climb. Buddha is very big and beautiful in the monastery.
Again there is a hike to the top its steep and be careful about the climb and edges. Too much to hike and very tiring. There is car parking space at the beginning of the trail. There are few restaurants and small shops at the beginning of the trail.
Its just too much of ruins"
divya girish
"Shey palace and monastery - located just outside of Leh. Shey was the summer capital of Ladakh in the past. You have to climb a lot of stairs to reach the top where there is a beautiful gold plated status of Shakyamuni Buddha (12 m tall). Outside the palace, there is a huge statue of a Buddhist king. The view from the top is breath taking."
Ritish Banerjee
"Very well maintained palace, some more. Renovations / restoration ongoing...
Don't forget to hike the fort just behind... Its breathtakingly beautiful hike.."
Amitkumar Yadav
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Shey Palace and Monastery is located about 15 kilometers south of Leh on the Leh-Manali road. You can easily reach it by hiring a taxi or taking a local bus from Leh. Many travelers opt for a taxi for convenience, especially if visiting multiple sites in a day.
Yes, there is car parking available at the beginning of the trail leading up to the palace and monastery. The road to Shey is generally well-maintained.
Shey Palace and Monastery is approximately 15 kilometers (9.3 miles) south of Leh town.
Absolutely! Shey Palace is a popular stop on day trips from Leh, often combined with other attractions like Thiksey Monastery. 
While taxis are common, local buses also ply the Leh-Manali route and can stop at Shey. Check local bus schedules for availability.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The monastery is generally open from morning until evening. While specific hours can vary, it's best to visit during daylight. Some travelers mention attending peaceful morning and evening prayers.
There is typically a nominal entrance fee for the monastery complex. It's advisable to carry some cash for this.
No, advance booking is generally not required for Shey Palace and Monastery. Tickets can usually be purchased upon arrival.
While the palace itself is undergoing restoration, the monastery and surrounding areas are accessible. Visitors are asked to be respectful of the site.
Yes, visitors are welcome to attend the peaceful morning and evening prayers at the monastery, offering a serene experience.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The main attraction is the colossal, three-story statue of Shakyamuni Buddha, made of copper and gilded with gold. It's a truly impressive sight.
The climb involves many stairs and can be steep, making it tiring for some. It's recommended to wear comfortable shoes and take your time.
From the top, you'll be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the Indus Valley and the surrounding rugged landscape.
Yes, there are a few small restaurants and shops located at the beginning of the trail, near the car parking area.
While some restoration work is ongoing, the palace complex is generally well-maintained. However, some visitors have noted littering in certain areas.
📸 📸 Photography
The panoramic views from the top are a photographer's dream. The Buddha statue inside the monastery and the ancient chortens scattered around the complex also make for great shots.
Photography inside the monastery, especially of the Buddha statue, may be restricted or require a separate fee. It's best to check on-site for specific rules.
Early morning or late afternoon light offers softer, more dramatic lighting for your photographs, and also helps avoid harsh midday sun.
The imposing Buddha statue, the ancient architecture, the colorful Buddhist chortens, and the sweeping valley views all present unique photographic opportunities.
Drone usage is often restricted at religious and historical sites. It's advisable to check local regulations before flying a drone in the area.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's advisable to carry plenty of water and snacks, and to take breaks during the ascent. While the palace itself is in ruins, the monastery and the surrounding chortens provide visual interest. Consider visiting in the cooler parts of the day to make the climb more comfortable for younger ones.
🚶 Budget Travelers
The entrance fee to the monastery is typically nominal, and the main draw – the stunning views and the Buddha statue – are free to experience once you're there. Packing your own water and snacks can also help save money.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1Don't miss the numerous Buddhist chortens scattered around the complex, which add color and cultural context to your photos. The ancient architecture of the palace ruins also presents unique angles and textures. Remember to be respectful of any photography restrictions inside the monastery.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
History and Significance of Shey Palace
The most prominent feature of the complex is the Shey Monastery, which houses a magnificent three-story statue of Shakyamuni Buddha. This colossal sculpture, crafted from copper and gilded with gold, is a testament to the region's artistic and spiritual heritage. The monastery itself is adorned with intricate murals and Buddhist chortens, adding to its sacred atmosphere.
+1While the palace structures are undergoing restoration, the monastery remains an active place of worship. Visitors can often attend peaceful morning and evening prayers, providing a serene spiritual experience. The journey to the top involves a climb, but the historical insights and the spiritual ambiance make it a rewarding visit for many.
The Colossal Buddha Statue
+1The sheer scale and craftsmanship of the statue are remarkable. Its presence dominates the main prayer hall, drawing visitors into a state of contemplation and reverence. The golden sheen reflects the light, creating a radiant and peaceful aura within the monastery. Many visitors describe it as a must-see element of their Ladakh trip.
Beyond its visual grandeur, the statue symbolizes peace, enlightenment, and the enduring Buddhist faith in the region. It serves as a focal point for devotion and a powerful reminder of the spiritual heritage that Shey Monastery represents.
Exploring the Surroundings and Views
Beyond the immediate palace and monastery, the area around Shey is dotted with numerous Buddhist chortens (stupas), adding to the spiritual landscape. These structures, often painted in vibrant colors, are scattered across the hillsides and contribute to the serene and sacred ambiance of the region.
For those seeking an even more elevated perspective, a hike to the fort located just behind the palace is highly recommended. This additional climb offers even more expansive and stunning views, often described as breathtakingly beautiful by those who undertake it.
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