Built approximately in 1430, the Namgyal Tsemo Gompa is a temple/monastery standing on top of crag just behind the Leh Palace. Visitors who choose to climb to the top of this wonderful archeological ruin will be treated to a full panoramic view of the town of Leh as well as the surrounding area. There is a huge collection of paintings and ancient manuscripts found inside the temple/monastery. But the most prized possession found inside the Namgyal Tsemo Gompa is a three story high statue of the Laughing Buddha made entirely of solid gold. There are other huge statues in the Namgyal Tsemo Temple including the Manjushri and Avaloketesvara statues.
