Indian States
Jammu
& Kashmir
Ladakh
( Places To See )
(
Sani )
Sani
This picturesque village is 6 kms west of Padum, on
the road to Kargil. The chief attraction here is the castle
like monastery which, unlike other monasteries of the region,
is built on level ground. By legend its initial foundation
is associated with Kanishka on account of the Kanika Stupa
which stands in the backyard of the walled complex. The
main building comprises a huge multi-columned central prayer
hall housing an array of statues of popular Buddhists divinities
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and
Drugpa (Old Schools) high saints. The most interesting frescoes,
however, can be seen in a small, almost discarded chapel at
the back of the main building, whose walls are adorned with
stucco murals depicting landscapes and floral designs based
on the life of Padma-sambhava. Adjoining this monastic complex
is an old cemetery surrounded by a ring of ancient rock carving
which reflect Indian artistic influence. |
Sani
is also associated with Naropa, the famous Indian yogi from Vikramsila,
who is said to have sat in meditation for some time under the Kanika
Stupa. The site is now occupied by a small room housing a veiled
bronze figure of the Yogi, which is unveiled, once a year in late
July. A 2-day long festival is held to celebrate this occasion,
which is attended by people from far, and wide monks from Bardan
Monastery perform masked dances as ritual offering.
How
to Reach
The 240 km long Kargil-Padun road, of which the first 90 km
stretch is paved, remains opened from around mid July to early November.
Jeeps and Gypsy taxis can 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
Tour My India Provides Tented Accomodation to its Clients while
doing trekking tours. 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.
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