Shey

Shey is a village in the Leh district of Ladakh, India, located on the southern bank of the Indus River and situated a short distance from the town of Leh. It is known for two major historical sites, the ruins of Shey Palace and the adjacent Shey Monastery, which together reflect the region’s religious and royal heritage. The site was historically significant as a former capital of Ladakh before Leh rose to prominence.

Shey Palace is a hilltop complex that dates to the 17th century and was built by the Namgyal royal dynasty. The palace served as a royal residence and winter capital for Ladakh’s rulers. Today, the palace structures are largely in ruins, but the site remains an important landmark with whitewashed walls and terraced platforms overlooking the Indus Valley. The accompanying temple complex contained chapels and shrines associated with the local deities and the royal family.

Shey Monastery, located near the palace, is a Buddhist gompa affiliated with the Gelug tradition. The monastery houses religious artifacts, including a prominent statue of a seated Shakyamuni Buddha and a collection of thangkas and sacred objects. Its frescoes and architecture demonstrate Tibetan Buddhist influence that is characteristic of Ladakh’s monasteries. The monastery remains an active religious site and a focal point for visitors and pilgrims.

Today, Shey is a popular destination for travelers exploring Ladakh’s cultural landscape. The combination of royal ruins and religious heritage provides insight into the region’s history and Buddhist traditions, and the site is commonly visited as part of broader tours of the Indus valley and Leh outskirts.