Discover Hemis | Hemis Tour Travel Guide | Indian Holiday

Hemis, also known as Hamis, is a charming village in the Leh district, located 40 kilometers southeast of Leh on the banks of the Indus River. A tranquil landscape surrounds the Hemis Monastery. It is one of India’s wealthiest monasteries, built by the Ladakhi king Sengge Namgyal.

Hemis Monastery is home to a magnificent copper statue of Lord Buddha, gold and silver stupas, thangkas (cotton or silk paintings depicting a Buddhist deity), and murals. Furthermore, all four sides of the monastery are adorned with colorful prayer flags that flutter in the breeze and send prayers to Lord Buddha. Hemis is most prevalent during the annual Hemis Festival, which is held in June.

Places to visit in Hemis 

Hemis is a fantastic destination for those who love the Himalayan way of life. The possibilities for a vacation in Hemis are endless. It is also an excellent destination for honeymooners. Hemis is also a place for people who want to know the Buddhist way of life and see the monasteries. Some of the tourist destinations in Hemis are

• Hemis Monastery
• Buddhist Monastery
• Karma Dupgyud Choeling Monastery
• General Zorawar`s Fort in Ladakh
• Leh Palace
• Hemis National Park

Things to do in Hemis

There are many things to explore in Hemis National Park, which makes the Ladakh tour more memorable than ever. Make your Ladakh trip unforgettable with the best Ladakh packages. There are the following things to experience in Hemis National Park:

• Trek to Gotsang Gumpa
• Visit the Hemis Monastery.
• Enjoy Hemis National Park Safari
• Check out the views from Stakna Gompa.
• Do some shopping in Hemis and bring souvenirs.
• Explore the beauty of nature by visiting Shang Gompa.

Best time to visit Hemis

The most suitable time to explore the Hemis National Park area is between May and October. However, if you plan your visit during mid-summer, you can check out the famous festival organized by the Hemis Monastery. Visiting this place after October is not advisable, as the roads are closed due to rain. So, you must go for something other than jeep safaris, not trekking. Before planning a trip to Hemis Ladakh, you must know the city’s situation and plan accordingly. 

How to reach Hemis

Hemis in Ladakh has good connectivity from all over the world. Travelers who want to reach Hemis can do so in three ways. The first option is to fly. The nearest airport is Leh, i.e., the Leh Rimpochee Airport, around 42 miles from Hemis. So you can get a bus or taxi from Leh to reach Hemis. The other option is to go by train. Katra railway station is the nearest railway station to the site, 227 km away. You can also go by road.

Accommodation in Hemis

There are few hotels in Hemis, but you could stay in Leh. and travel to Hemis, only 40 km away. There are numerous options for people of all financial means. Star hotels and budget properties exist for those more conscious of their budget. Some of the hotels in Leh-Ladakh are Hotel Grand Dragon, Hotel Omasila, Hotel Holiday, Hotel Dragon, Hotel Caravan Centre, Hotel Singge Palace, Hotel Gawaling International, Singge Palace Hotel, Hotel Asia, Hotel, Ladakh, Hotel Royal, and so on.

Where to eat in Hemis?

When it comes to dining options, there are a few local restaurants that serve authentic Ladakhi cuisines, such as thukpa (noodle soup), momos (dumplings), and skyu (a traditional stew). These restaurants often use locally sourced ingredients and offer a unique culinary experience. Additionally, there are some guesthouses and cafes in Hemis that also serve delicious Tibetan and Indian dishes, providing travelers with a variety of dining options to choose from.

How to get around in Hemis? 

Hemis is a small village, and the best way to get around is on foot. The town is easily navigable; you can explore its narrow lanes and scenic surroundings by walking. Alternatively, you can hire a local taxi or rent a bicycle to explore nearby attractions and monasteries.

Travel tips

• Respect the local culture and customs, as Hemis is a predominantly Buddhist village.
• Acclimate to the high altitude gradually to avoid altitude sickness.
• Carry warm clothing, as temperatures can drop significantly, especially at night.
• Stay hydrated and drink plenty of water to prevent altitude-related health issues.
• Carry cash, as ATMs may not be readily available in Hemis.
• Plan your visit during the Hemis Festival, a major cultural event held annually in July.
• Pack sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect yourself from the intense sun at high altitudes.
• Be prepared for limited internet connectivity and mobile network coverage in Hemis.