Likhir is a village in Ladakh in the state of Jammu and Kashmir. It is around 62 km from the city of Leh. The word Likhir means ‘encircled by the cobras’. It is believed that the monastery here is surrounded by spirits of two cobras or Nagas. It is also known as Lu Khyil. The Likhir Gompa (monastery) is famous for its golden yellow Buddha statue.
Ladakh has a cold climate due to its altitude. Due to its dry weather conditions and the cool weather it is called a Cold Desert. The air is rarified and so some people may experience breathing problems. The summer temperature ranges from 8oC to 27oC. The minimum temperature in summer sometimes drops as low as -3oC. The winter is very cold. The range of temperature in winters is -20oC to 15oC. There is snowfall by late September. It is a must to rest on the day of arrival to Ladakh region to acclimatize with the environment here.
The best time to visit Likhir is from June to September. It is advisable to carry thick woolen clothes, wind cheaters, sun glasses, sturdy shoes, caps and sun screen. The skin needs to be well protected against the harsh climate.
There are no ATMs in Likhir. But bank branches and ATMs are there in the city of Leh. It is best to carry cash for convenience. There may not be any money exchangers here so carry Indian currency only.
No permit is required for Indian nationals in Ladakh. For foreign tourists, registration is done at the airport or at Drass, Rumste and Sechru if they travel by road to Ladakh.
Leh airport is the nearest airport to Likhir. It is at a distance of 62 kms from Likhir. There are flights to Delhi, Jammu and Srinagar. The flights are mostly full in peak season and so it is better to book in advance.The flights are operated by Indian Airlines, Jet Airways and Deccan Airways. There are no daily flights. The weather may delay or cancel flights and that has to be taken into consideration when the trip is planned.From Leh, one can take a taxi or a bus to reach Likhir.
By road Leh could be reached from Srinagar or Manali. The roads are open only from June to September and is blocked sometimes due to landslides or other conditions. The journey offers breathtaking views of the desert landscape.
The Likhir Gompa is the main attraction of Likhir. The Gompa has a huge golden statue of Buddha. Around a hundred monks stay in the Gompa. The original Gompa was renovated in the 18th century and so it lacks the antiquity of other Gompas in Ladakh.
The Gompa museum has ancient relics worth a watch.
You can trek up to Temisgang via Rhidzong. It is a nice two day trek. If you don’t want a rigorous trek you can take a three hour trek from the Gompa to the top ridge of Likhir.
Ladakhi food mainly consists of vegetables like Potato, Pumpkin, beans and beetroot along with meat like chicken and mutton. The flavouring is mild. ‘Thupka’, which is a thick soup and ‘Momos’ – dumplings stuffed with vegetables or meat should be tasted. Tibetian food is also quite common in Likhir and all around Ladakh. The Norboo Spoon Guest House has a roof top restaurant. The capital, Leh has many restaurants serving Indian and continental food. Sweet shops and bakeries serve delicacies and bread. Himalaya Café, Shangrila and Budshah Inn are good restaurants in Leh.
The Gaph Chow guest house has clean rooms. The The Norboo Spoon Guest House is another option. Tents are also available in Likhir.
