Phugtal Monastery

Phugtal Monastery is built directly into a natural cave on a cliff face above the Tsarap Chu river in Zanskar's remote Lungnak Valley. Home to around 70 monks of the Gelugpa order, its honeycomb like structure has drawn pilgrims and scholars for centuries. The site is reached by a two to three hour trek from Purne village, making it one of the few Ladakhi monasteries still accessible only on foot. Ancient murals, a sacred spring and a resident traditional physician add to its living heritage.