Likir Monastery: The Golden Maitreya of the Sham Valley

• The golden Maitreya, sitting in the open with the valley behind.
• The assembly hall and temples, with statues and old thangkas.
• The museum of masks, costumes and ritual objects.
• Likir village, with fields and homestays, the first stop on the Sham valley trek.

Likir is the usual starting point of the Sham valley trek, a 3 to 4 day walk through villages such as Yangthang, Hemis Shukpachan and Temisgam, with homestay nights. It is known as the "baby trek" because the passes are low by Ladakh standards. Read our Sham valley guide for the route.

• Walk clockwise around stupas, prayer wheels and the inside of the prayer hall, as the monks do.
• Dress modestly: shoulders and knees covered. Remove shoes and hats before entering a prayer hall.
• Ask before photographing monks, and do not use flash inside. Some halls do not allow photos at all; follow the signs.
• Do not touch statues, murals or offerings, and never point your feet at an altar when sitting.
• A small entry fee is charged at most monasteries and supports their upkeep. Carry cash; card machines are rare.
• Morning prayers are open to quiet visitors at many gompas. Sit at the back and stay until the end if you go in.

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