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Alchi Monastery is different from the other places we saw. Firstly it was the only one on flat ground, rather than sited on or against a hill, a welcome relief for the legs. Secondly it is no longer a place of active worship, it was abandoned around the 16th century. This has meant that the many 11th and 12th century paintings and murals for which is has become famous are in relatively good condition, not having suffered from as much soot from candles over the years. It is believed that the painters who made the work were probably from Kashmir. The site was originally founded around 1020-1035 AD, by a Tibetan Saint called Richen Zangpo and known as The Great Translator. The site is now cared for by the Monastery at Likir.
Part of the grounds in Alchi.
The main temples that contain the paintings are also elaborately decorated on the outside with various carvings. Unfortunately we could not take picture inside the temples.
There were also a number of stompas in the grounds that also had painting within them, and these give a slight taste of what we saw elsewhere.
For a look at some of the paintings and sculptures inside the temple you can go to the following link: Alchi
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