Matho Monastery

About Brief Introduction of Matho Monastery Leh

Known for its annual Oracle Matho Nagrang Festival, Matho Monastery is one of the places to see near Leh. One of the two monasteries of Sakyapa sect of Tibetan Buddhism, Matho Monastery or Mangtro Gompa is little offbeat but is home to a large collection of Buddhist Thangkas (paintings) that date back to the 14th century.

This attraction near Leh sits opposite to the famous Thiksey Monastery, near the bank of Indus River. Several structures in this old monastery were in poor condition, and thus in 1970, new assembly hall was built.

History of Matho Monastery

The history of Matho Monastery states that it was founded in the year 1410 century by Lama Dugpa Dorje. The gompa belongs to the Sakya Order and houses 400-600 years old thangkas.

Architecture of Matho Monastery

The architecture of Matho Monastery is of Tibetan style. Like every Tibetan style monastery, Matho Gompa also has a Dukhang or the assembly hall, a small chapel on the top storey that houses the images of Sakya Pandita and other Sakya lamas, and a museum adjoining it.

Highlights of Matho Monastery

• 400-year old Thangkas
• Museum
• Matho Nagrang Festival

Best Time to Visit Matho Monastery

The best time to visit Matho Monastery is during the Matho Nagrang Festival, which is celebrated in the month of March. Another best time to visit here is between June and September.

How to Reach Matho Monastery?

Matho Village is situated around 26 kms from Leh. One has to first reach the village by a cab or bike and then trek up the hill to reach the Gompa.