While travelling from Kargil to Panikar and Parkutse, the first Buddhist monastery that presents itself before the tourists is Rangdum. Positioned at the top of the mountain outcropping of rocks, Rangdum Monastery is only a few miles from the small town or rather village of Rangdum. With a stream running around it like a moat, the structure of the monastery gives more of an impression of an ancient fort that towers over and safeguards a valley.

The history of the monastery is not very clear and there seems to be a bit of disagreement as regards its foundation in the 8th century. More consensus is gathered for 18th century. Also, what is clear is that the monastery was founded by the Gelukpa order.


The highlight of the monastery is its central prayer hall with a wonderful collection of statues and art objects. Two tiny hamlets, Yuldo and Tashi-Tongze, spread on either side of the monastery. The hamlets are surrounded by rows of chortens.

The monastery, home to around 40 monks, owns the land all around, pastures and even the hills and streams. The ownership is permanent as such the people who reside in the vicinity of the monastery have to work and till the land that does not directly belong to them.

Rangdum
At an altitude of 3,657 meters, the village of Rangdum is the most secluded part of the Suru valley. Being isolated from the other parts of the region, the place has retained much of its wild beauty. Imposing as well as beautiful hills, rocky mountains and glaciers surrounds this place thereby enhancing its beauty multifold.

Rangdum is a major attraction for the lovers of trekking, the most famous trek route being the one that commences from here and leads to to Henaskut near Lamayuru through breathtaking gorge of the Kanji valley. This route also forms part of the bigger trek route that runs between Kashmir and Ladakh.

For tourists wishing to stay overnight at Rangdum, there is the newly built Tourist Complex with 5 furnished rooms and dormitory accomodation. Alternatively, they can also opt for tented accommodation operated by the monastery management. Food can be bought from the nearby teashop.


Other Attractions

• Parkachik : This village is famous amongst the tourists because of the trekking opportunities it offers. The spellbinding Parkachik glacier in the NunKun slopes is a major highlight. Parkachik is 90 km south of Kargil.
  
  
• Lingshet Monastery : Lingshet monastery, located south east of Rangdum, is one of those few that date back close to the era when Budhism was being established in this area.