The monastery of Stongdey lies 18-km to the north of
Padum, on the road leading to
Zangla. An old foundation associated with the
Tibetan Yogi, Marpa, Stongdey is now the second largest monastic
establishment of Zanskar, inhabited by the resident community of about 60
Gelukpa monks.
The sprawling whitewashed complex has a number of temples, each a
repository of the region's rich monastic legacy. Stongdey can be reached
by foot in about 4 hours along the recently laid rough road. The climb up
to the monastery is rather strenuous, but it is worth the trouble for the
breathtaking scenery of the valley available from here.
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, 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.
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 Stongdey, 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.