The Phugtal Monastery is no ordinary residence of the Buddhist monks, given the fact that is perched on verticals of a huge rugged mountain. No wonder, it is quite a daunting job to reach this isolated monastery. Located in the Zanskar Valley in Ladakh, Phugtal can be reached by crossing the Zanskar-Rangdum road. A beautiful gorge is located in front of the cave monastery, which gives way to the tributary of Lungnak river.

One of the easiest paths that the travellers can take to visit this monastery is the Padum-Manali trek route.

The main monastery is located in a cave and its architecture is based on ancient Indian traditions. Due to its isolated and almost inaccessible location, supplies to the Phugtal Monastery are sent via horses, mules and donkeys in the warmer months, and through the frozen Zanskar river in the winter season.

There are about 40 or more monks living in this monastery and they are ready to welcome and teach philosophy of right living to whoever is willing to learn.

The Phugtal Monastery allows outsiders to stay, offer prayers and know the cultural tradition and history of the place. And because this monastery is about 2500+ years old, you may also find it interesting to hear all those interesting stories about the great sages and enlightened beings, who would visit this site to pursue their practice or to simply teach the aspirants.