Sani Monastery
It takes one day drive from Kargil via Rangdum to reach the monastery and village of Sani, which lies about 10 km before Padum. The chief attraction here is the castle like monastery which, unlike other monasteries of the region, is built on level ground. Being the most important monastery near Padum, the Sani Monastery belongs to the southern branch of the Drukpa Kagyupa school. This sanctuary is, however for Buddhist of such high importance that even other sects worship it deeply. By legend its initial foundation is associated with Kanishka on account of the Kanika Stupa which stands in the backyard of the walled complex. This chorten, standing in the oldest part of Sani monastery, dates back to the 2nd century A.D. The huge multi-columned central prayer hall Dukhang which forms the center of the later built monastery part, was erected in the early 17th century. It houses an array of statues of popular Buddhists divinities 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.
