Overlooking
the town of Leh, the Namgyal Tsemo Gompa stands perched precariously on
the crag behind Leh palace. Built by King Tashi Namgyal, it dates back
to the year 1430. Namgyal Tsemo Gompa at Ladakh houses a three-story
high solid gold idol of Maitrieya Buddha (future Buddha, also known as
the laughing Buddha). Also present inside is a statue of Avaloketesvara
and Manjushri, approximatyely one story high, along with numerous
manuscripts and frescoes.Namgyal Tsemo Monastery of Leh Ladakh offers breathtakingly beautiful views of the town of Leh. There is also a fort near the monastery, however, now it stands mostly in ruins. There are a number of associated temples also, which remain open only during morning and evening. During this time, a monk comes from Sankar Gompa to attend to the butter-lamps in front of the images.
