Best Places to Visit in Hemis
This becomes evident as one travels to Leh-Ladakh. Ladakh essentially translates into ‘the land of high passes’. It is a region in the state of Jammu and Kashmir that is sandwiched between the Karakoram Mountains to the north and Himalayas to the south. Leh used to be the capital of Ladakh. Due to the barren nature of the landscape it has also been called the ‘Broken Moon land’. There are several tourist attractions in Leh-Ladakh. This region has the least density of population in India and has a charm and beauty of its own that attracts thousands of visitors from all parts of the world. Hemis is a very popular tourist destination that is located 40 Km to the South-East of Leh. This is the apt place for those who are tired of the hustle and bustle of city life. They can spend some time in the lap of the Himalayas. Hemis is especially known for the Buddhist monastery that is situated here.
The Hemis Monastery or the Hemis Gompa was built by the first incarnation of Stagsang Raspa Nawang Gyatso in the year 1630. It was rebuilt later to promote the religious teachings of the Mahayoga Tantra School. There is a copper idol of the Buddha in the monastery which is the main attraction. the walls of the monastery are adorned with beautiful paintings that depict the cycles of time and the `Lord of the four Quarters`. Hemis is also a nature lover`s paradise. There is a Hemis High Altitude National Park, has been declared as the 2nd largest contiguous protected area in India. This is a reserve that is home to a variety of species like the snow leopard, deer, macaques, red foxes, wolves, the lammergeier vulture, and the golden eagle.
Check Here:- Hemis Festival Ladakh
How to Reach Hemis
By Air: There is an airport in Leh which is well connected to some of the major cities in north India like New Delhi, Srinagar and Pune. This is the only airbase that is close to Hemis. The airbase is located at a distance of 44 Km from Hemis and one can take a taxi or even use the bus services that regularly ply from and to the airport to reach Hemis.
By Rail: There is no railway station in Hemis. The nearest railway station is the Srinagar railway station. This railway station is connected to all the major stations in India. Trains from Chennai, New Delhi, Pune, and Jammu all reach Srinagar. There are buses that start from right outside the station that you could use to reach Hemis.
By Road: Travelers can also reach Hemis by road. There is a good network of roads that connects Hemis with Leh and the distance to Leh is 40 Km. the best option would be to use the government operated buses that through the route. The price is also very nominal as compared to the taxis.
Best Time to Visit Hemis:
Hemis is located right in the lap of the mighty Himalayas. Whatever the season, the temperatures will never become hot. It is always advised to carry warm woolens. The best season to visit Hemis would be between April to June.
Sightseeing Attractions in Hemis
Hemis is an amazing destination for those who love the Himalayan way of life. The possibilities of a vacation in Hemis are endless. You could go for trekking, hiking and all kinds of adventurous activities. It is also a wonderful destination for honeymooners. Hemis is also a place of visit for people who would like to know the Buddhist way of life and visit the monasteries. Some of the tourist destinations in Hemis are Hemis Monastery, Hemis National Park, Hemis Festival etc.
Hemis Monastery
The Hemis Monastery is located 45 Kms South West of Leh. It was constructed in 1630 by the first incarnation of Stagsang Raspa Nawang Gyatso. There is a copper statue of the Buddha and paintings on the walls of the Verandah that depict the ‘Lords of the Four Quarters’ and the ‘Kalachakra’ or the ‘cycles of life’. It is a great experience to visit this monastery as it gives one an idea about the Buddhist way of life.
Karma Dupgyud Choeling Monastery
The Karma Dupgyud Choeling Monastery is located 9 Kms from Leh and is managed by the Karmapa sect of Tibetan Buddhists. The monastery preserves the Buddhist way of life and propagates the values of Tibetan Buddhism. This monastery draws several followers who visit the monastery to understand the Karmapa`s teachings.
General Zorawar`s Fort in Ladakh
This historic fort is located above the Palace of Leh and the Gompa of Namgyal Tsemo. It was a very important structure but lies in ruins today. The fort today houses a large collection of coins and specimens of stamps and ancient artefacts. Tourists who are interested in history and culture visit this fort. There is a Durga temple, a mosque and a natural spring within the fort.
Leh Palace
The Leh Palace was built in the 17th century and the edifice is like that of the one in Tibet. It is 9 storeys tall. The palace which was in a wrecked state is now maintained by the Archaeological Department of India. The location of the palace is breathtaking and the visitor can see the beautiful Stok Kangri, the Indus Valley and also the Ladakh mountain range.
Hemis National Park
Hemis High Altitude National Park is the 2nd largest contiguous protected area in India. This is a reserve that is home to a variety of species like the snow leopard, deer, macaques, red foxes, wolves, the lammergeier vulture, and the golden eagle. The park is located on the banks of the Indus river and situated at an altitude of 3300 to 6000 Mtr above sea level. It is best to visit this park between the months of May to October.
Paragliding in Leh
If you love adventure sports then you could drive to Leh and enjoy paragliding. Paragliding is a very popular sport in Leh. The landscape allows for paragliding enthusiasts to enjoy their sport. Even though paragliding is done all year round, the best time for paragliding is October to June.
Hotels and Accommodation in Hemis
There are not many hotels in Hemis but you could stay at Leh. And travel to Hemis which is only 40 Kms away. There are plenty of options for people with all budgets. There are star hotels as well as budget properties for those who are more conscious of the budget. Some of the hotels in Leh-Ladakh are Hotel Grand Dragon, Hotel Omasila, Hotel Holiday, Hotel Dragon, Hotel Caravan Centre, Hotel Singge Palace, Hotel Gawaling International, Singge Palace Hotel, Hotel Asia, Hotel, Ladakh, Hotel Royal and so on.
Hotel Gawaling International
This is a wonderfully located hotel which is at a short distance from Leh yet amidst a green environment. There are wonderfully appointed rooms with all the modern amenities. The hotel offers a panoramic view of the beautiful mountain ranges and green fields.
Hotel Caravan Centre
Hotel Caravan Centre is located in the rural ambience of Skara. It is located in between the Airport and city centre. It is a garden retreat and overlooks the Stok Khangri range of the Himalayas. The owner is very hospitable and is very responsive to the needs of the guests. There is even an organic vegetable garden within the premises of the hotel.
Hotel Asia
The Hotel Asia is a traditionally run property at Ladakh. It is just a couple of minutes stroll from the market place. Despite its location it offers a majestic view of the surroundings. There are lush green lawns that are studded with beautiful flowers. There is also a rooftop café and a multi-cuisine restaurant.
Hotel Grand Dragon
The Hotel Grand Dragon is the self-admittedly the highest star luxury hotel in the world. It is a 4 star property that is located in the heart of the ancient city of Leh. The hotel offers every amenity that a guest might even wish for. The dining is also among the best in Leh. This hotel is for the discerning traveler.
Hotel Royal
Hotel Royal Palace is located in South Leh at a 7 minutes distance from main market. The hotel offers all modern amenities and even offers Ayurvedic massage.
Hotel Singge Palace
Hotel Singge Palace is a royal retreat that is nestled in the tranquil Leh. It is very close to the market place and yet gives an impression of tranquility. The hotel has all modern amenities and also a multi-cuisine restaurant that serves local Ladakhi food.