Shey Gompa

The wall paintings depict Buddha’s images of the 16th Arhats or worthy one attaining Nirvana. You can find images of Buddha’s two principal disciples, Sariputra and Maudgalyayana behind the Statue. Every mural tells different stories related to different myths of Buddhism. In front of the Buddha Statue, there is large bowl of wax with central flame, symbolizing divinity and purity. As you reach at the entrance of monastery, there is ancient library which includes several wall paintings depicting Buddha’s hand in various gestures.

Major Attractions around the Shey Gompa

The Temple of Shakyamuni
It is one of the most holistic temples of the place, located at Chorten strewn plain. It has been best viewed from the mezzanine verandah on the first floor. It was constructed by the Nepali metalworkers who were brought here by Sengge Namgyal; still reside in the place in a peculiar way. Down the monastery, the Dukhnag includes dusty old Thangkas and manuscripts.

Shey’s Ancient Monument
It is considered as one of the most ancient monuments of Shey. The rock carving of the five ‘Tathagata or’ Thus gone’ Buddhas, is sculptured out during 8th century, before the ‘Second Spreading’. The prime figure of the Buddha depicted as gesture of preaching (turning the wheel of Dharma).

Shey Oracle- He is the central figure in the monastery and viewed as equivalent to god. During the August harvest festival, the Shey Oracle walks around the whole village on horse and prophesies the future.

Shey Festivity- The Shey Management of monastery organizes Metukba Festival in July praying the well being of all life across the world.

The best time to pay visit is between 7 to 9 am and 5 to 6 pm when prayer is started by the monks.