Basgo gompa, Leh

Basgo is probably the most unique monastery or gompa you'll visit in Ladakh. It's a combination of a gompa and a palace, and the surrounding landscape gives it a somewhat otherworldly look. The landscape feels lunar or even Mars like. Both the palace and the gompa temple contain tall statues of the Maitreya or the future Buddha. There are amazing colorful paintings on the temple walls (just like all other gompas). There was no one else when we went there, the clouds were moving fast, and the whole place felt surreal. There's an entry ticket and the facilities are basic. No shops when we were there.

A majestic place with a beautiful story behind which of course you will have to find out, it's about the King and Queen. If you see carefully you will find Watch Towers and places from where Archers can shoot. If you want to visit a Monastery, A Palace and a Fortress at the same time, this is the place. Do remember to bring along a bottle of Butter, traditional shawl if you are visiting this place.