Start the day early. Enjoy warm sips of tea or coffee, after which you proceed for a visit to the Thiksey monastery. Only a kilometre from your camp, you can easily climb the hill top on which the monastery is nestled. This gorgeous monastery houses a two storey statue of the Maitreya Buddha seated on a lotus, and boasts of a spectacular view of the valley. At the monastery, you will have the privilege to participate in the Morning Prayer ceremony at sunrise.
Continue on a guided tour of the monastery, visiting the beautiful prayer room which has many handwritten and painted books. Also pay respects to temple dedicated to goddess Tara with her 21 images placed in glass-covered wooden shelves. You will also see small shrines devoted to the guardian divinities including Cham-Sing, the protector deity of Thiksey.
Return to the camp for a leisurely breakfast. The rest of the morning is free, allowing you time to relax and take in the pristine beauty around you. You can indulge in our optional cycling trip in the vicinity of the Thiksey village and its surroundings. Or else you could also choose to drive to the Saboo village for a séance session with the Oracle. You have to confirm the visit to the Oracle in advance to be given audience.
This afternoon, proceed to explore the Hemis Monastery. The oldest monastic institution of Ladakh, situated about 20 kilometres (1 hr) from Thiksey is built in a secluded valley, the monastery belongs to the Drukpa School or the Dragon Order of Mahayana Buddhism. Explore the many interesting facets of this institution, established under the patronage of King Senge Namygal in the 13th century, where young lamas are taught literature, history, philosophy, yoga and tantra. The monastery halls are adorned with beautiful statues and mural paintings.
Return to the camp, later in the evening, as the sun sets. The inspring views of the golden sun setting on the rustic landscape with the Thiksey Monastery standing tall as a monumental backdrop is simply magical. You l be enchanted by a cultural dance performance, Zyabro at the camp.
Enjoy an overnight stay at the Chamba Camp, Thiksey.