About Bardan Monastery
Bardan Monastery, also known as Bardan Gompa, is a 17th-century Tibetan Buddhist monastery located in Bardan village in the Zanskar Valley of Kargil district, Ladakh. Perched on a rocky cliff overlooking the Zanskar River, about 12 km south of Padum, it is one of the largest monasteries in Zanskar. Belonging to the Dugpa-Kagyu school, it is known for its large assembly hall, ancient murals, statues and thangkas.
Visitors guide
Visitors can expect a hilltop monastery complex set on a rocky crag above the Zanskar River with panoramic valley views. The complex includes a large Dukhang (assembly hall), shrines with statues of Buddha and Padmasambhava, old murals, thangkas and prayer wheels. The surroundings are stark, arid Zanskar landscape with the river below. Visitors can explore courtyards, prayer halls and observe monastic life when monks are present.
Key highlights
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One of the largest and oldest monasteries in Zanskar, perched on a rocky cliff above the Zanskar River
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Large Dukhang (assembly hall) with statues of Buddha, Padmasambhava and Buddhist deities
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Ancient murals, thangkas and Buddhist scriptures
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Panoramic views of Zanskar Valley and Zanskar River
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Centre of Dugpa-Kagyu lineage with traditional cham dance during festivals
History of Bardan Monastery
Founded in 1669 by Lama Dzadpa Dorje, a Tibetan yogi of the Dugpa-Kagyu lineage. Built on a rocky crag overlooking the Zanskar River, it was among the earliest major monastic establishments in Zanskar and has served as an important centre for Buddhist learning and practice in the region.
Culture & Context
Belongs to the Drukpa Kagyu school of Tibetan Buddhism. Houses a large assembly hall with statues of Buddha and Padmasambhava, ancient thangkas, murals and religious scriptures. Serves as a spiritual centre for the Zanskari community and hosts annual religious festivals and cham masked dances.
Route
| By air |
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