I don’t know much about Alchi and I only heard once about it from a fellow traveller that I met in Kibber and after doing some readings about it on my guidebook I decided to take a visit and see it for myself.
There’s a local bus that goes to Alchi from Leh for about two hours and it cost 80 Rupees per person. It leaves the bus station around 8 – 9AM.
As soon as you arrive in Alchi, you’ll notice that it’s a very very very small town (LOL) and most tourist go here and stay here for less than an hour just to see the temple and it’s very amazing sculptures and murals. There seemed to be more souvenirs shops than guesthouses and restaurants when I went to Alchi last June 2012.
Alchi temple complex is said to have been built in the 10th century along with the one in Lamayuru. Entrance to the complex is free but you have to pay 50 Rupees if you want to enter Sumtseg.
At first glance it looks like just a simple temple made from mud, soil, stones and wood but once you enter the temple you’ll be amazed with the sculptures and the murals. This is one of the most amazing buddhist artworks that I’ve seen in my life. Photography isn’t allowed inside Sumtseg though but you can still take pictures of other parts of Alchi temple complex.
Here are some pictures of Alchi:
Alchi Temple Complex
A small road leading to Alchi Temple Complex
Stupas
Wall Murals in one of the Stupas inside the complex
More artworks
Monk in front of Sumtseg
Wooden beam with intricate details
Prayer wheels and the road that’ll lead you to the gorge
We stayed overnight in Alchi so we could have more time to look around and take some picture. Aside from the temple complex, Alchi also has a very picturesque landscape. Check out some of my photos.
Safe Travels!
Alchi looks like a little gem of a find! I’d never heard of it either. You’ve taken some fabulous pics, thanks for filling me in.