Legend &
Other Attractions
By legend its initial foundation is associated with Kanishka on
account of the Kanika Stupa, which stands in the backyard of the
walled complex. The main building comprises a huge multi-columned
central prayer hall housing 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.
Kanika Stupa
Sani is also associated with Naropa, the famous Indian yogi from
Vikramsila, who is said to have sat in meditation for some time under
the Kanika Stupa. The site is now occupied by a small room housing a
veiled bronze figure of the Yogi, which is unveiled, once a year in
late July. A 2-day long festival is held to celebrate this occasion,
which is attended by people from far, and wide monks from Bardan
Monastery perform masked dances as ritual offering.
HOW TO REACH THERE
Road: The
240-km long Kargil-Padum road, of which the first 90-km stretch is
paved, remains opened from around mid July to early November. The
J&K SRTC operates a thrice-weekly bus services from Kargil.
However groups can charter A-Class or even Super-Deluxe buses to visit
Zanskar, including the interior places of interest like Stongdey (also
spelt as Stongde), Zangla and Karsha.
Jeeps and Gypsy taxis can also be hired at Kargil. During June and
early July, prior to opening of the road, it is recommended to walk
into Zanskar from Panikhar or Parkachik onwards. In June, the summer
is at its height in the region and the climate is ideal for trekking
along the route free from vehicular traffic of any kind and when the
countryside is freshly rejuvenated into life after months of frigid
dormancy.
WHERE TO STAY
The tourist
Complex at Padum provides furnished rooms. There is catering
arrangement in the complex, while camping place nearby is available
for budget tourists travelling with personal tents. Padum town has
several private hotels where rooms with basic facilities are
available. At Karsha dormitory accommodation is available in the newly
build inn where basic vegetarian food is also provided. In the distant
villages like Strongdey, Zangla, Sani, etc., Accommodation can be
sought from the villagers either on payment or in exchange of a
suitable gift. Some monasteries may also take in guests, through more
as a gesture of goodwill than on purely commercial consideration. Of
course the guest is expected to compensate the monastery suitably.
NEARBY CITIES
Padum: 6-km
Karsha: 14-km
Stongdey: 25-km
