3 Days in Alchi for a Relaxed Getaway

Start your Alchi trip with its most famous monastery, explore the charming village, and savor authentic Ladakhi flavors.

Activities

Alchi Monastery Tour

Begin your day at the 11th-century Alchi Monastery, one of Ladakh's oldest and most unique Buddhist sites. Unlike other monasteries perched on hills, this one sits in the village, with stunning murals and wood carvings inside its three main temples. The artwork here is remarkably preserved, blending Kashmiri and Tibetan styles.

Alchi Monastery, Alchi VillageMorning (8:30 AM - 11 AM) to avoid afternoon heatINR 50-100 (donation-based)

Tips:

• Remove shoes before entering temples
• Photography may be restricted inside some shrines

Village Walk & Indus River View

Stroll through Alchi's peaceful lanes lined with traditional Ladakhi homes and poplar trees. Walk down to the Indus River for serene views of the turquoise water against the stark mountains. You'll pass small family-run shops selling apricots and walnuts - perfect for light snacks.

Alchi Village to Indus RiverbankLate morning (11 AM - 12:30 PM)Free

Tips:

• Wear comfortable walking shoes
• Carry water as shops are sparse near the river

Ladakhi Thukpa Lunch

Try the local version of thukpa (noodle soup) at a family-run eatery. Alchi's version often includes fresh vegetables from nearby farms and sometimes yak meat. Pair it with butter tea for the full Ladakhi experience.

Alchi Village (look for small signs saying 'Local Food')Lunch (1 PM - 2 PM)INR 200-300 per person

Tips:

• Ask for mild spice if you're sensitive to heat
• Cash is preferred as card machines are rare

Must Try Foods

A slower-paced day diving deeper into Alchi's local culture and lesser-known gems, with a mix of history, food, and village life.

Activities

Alchi Choskor Temple Complex

While the main monastery was covered on Day 1, the Choskor complex is a quieter cluster of smaller temples with exquisite 11th-century Kashmiri-style murals. The Sumtsek Temple here has a stunning three-story Buddha statue. The artwork feels more intimate here than in the main monastery.

Choskor Temple Complex, 10-minute walk from Alchi MonasteryMorning around 9 AM when the light illuminates the murals best₹50 entry fee

Tips:

• Look for the unusual erotic art panels - rare in Buddhist temples
• Photography isn't allowed inside, but the caretaker might permit phone photos for a small tip

Local Apricot Orchards Visit

Alchi is famous for its sweet apricots. Walk through family-owned orchards where you can taste fresh apricots (in season) or dried ones. Many families will show you traditional apricot kernel oil extraction methods. The best part? Most farmers will insist you try their homemade apricot jam with butter tea.

Scattered orchards behind Alchi village - ask any local to point youLate morning around 11 AM when farmers are activeFree (but consider buying some jam or oil)

Tips:

• June-July is fresh apricot season
• The oil makes a great natural moisturizer for Ladakh's dry climate

Sunset at Likir Monastery Viewpoint

A short drive to this hidden viewpoint offers panoramic views of Likir Monastery in the distance, with the entire Indus Valley glowing golden at sunset. It's quieter than the usual sunset spots, with just a few prayer flags fluttering in the wind. Bring a thermos of butter tea from Alchi to enjoy here.

Viewpoint on Alchi-Likir road, about 20 minutes from AlchiArrive 1 hour before sunset (check times locally)Free

Tips:

• The last stretch is a 5-minute walk - wear sturdy shoes
• Locals believe this spot has special spiritual energy at dusk

Must Try Foods

A relaxed day uncovering lesser-known spots and local flavors in Alchi, perfect for winding down your trip.

Activities

Must Try Foods