The monastery
of Stongdey lies 18-km to the north of Padum, on the road leading to
Zangla. An old foundation associated with the Tibetan Yogi, Marpa,
Stongdey is now the second largest monastic establishment of
Zanskar, inhabited by the resident community of about 60 Gelukpa
monks.
The sprawling whitewashed complex has a number of temples, each a
repository of the region's rich monastic legacy. Stongdey can be
reached by foot in about 4 hours along the recently laid rough road.
The climb up to the monastery is rather strenuous, but it is worth
the trouble for the breathtaking scenery of the valley available
from here.
HOW TO REACH
THERE
The 240 km
long Kargil-Padum road, of which the first 90 km stretch is paved,
remains opened from around mid July to early November. The J&K SRTC
operates a thrice-weekly bus services from Kargil. However groups
can charter A-Class or even Super-Deluxe buses to visit Zanskar,
including the interior places of interest like Stongdey, Zangla and
Karsha. Jeeps and Gypsy taxis can also be hired at Kargil. During
June and early July, prior to opening of the road, it is recommended
to walk into Zanskar from Panikhar or Parkachik onwards. In June,
the summer is at its height in the region and the climate is ideal
for trekking along the route free from vehicular traffic of any kind
and when the countryside is freshly rejuvenated into life after
months of frigid dormancy.
WHERE TO
STAY
The tourist
Complex at Padum provides furnished rooms. There is catering
arrangement in the complex, while camping place nearby is available
for budget tourists travelling with personal tents. Padum town has
several private hotels where rooms with basic facilities are
available. At Karsha dormitory accommodation is available in the
newly build inn where basic vegetarian food is also provided. In the
distant villages like Stongdey, Zangla, Sani, etc., accommodation
can be sought from the villagers either on payment or in exchange of
a suitable gift. Some monasteries may also take in guests, through
more as a gesture of goodwill than on purely commercial
consideration. Of course the guest is expected to compensate the
monastery suitably.
