Introduction

Visiting one of the highest villages in the world is hardly the rousing element for travelers, for the real attraction in Korzok is actually a 300-year-old monastery belonging to the Drugpa order known as Korzok Gompa. This Tibetan Buddhist monastery was rebuilt in 1850 on a minor slope over the remnants of another, which was brought down in a Dogra invasion. Offering sanctuary to about 35 monks, Korzok Gompa houses an interesting collection of artifacts, including a statute of Sakyamuni Buddha, several chortens, thangkas and even restored paintings.

Architecturally, the monastery is not much to mull over, but it does offer a sacred space for some serious introspection for travelers who, weary of the worldly humdrums, seek momentary mortal salvation here. The rooftop of Korzok monastery, which opens up a spectacular view of Tso Moriri, is probably a good place to indulge in some deep meditation.

A lone, but beautiful building stands near the lakeshore of Tso Moriri and is actually the residence of a lama. Campsites can be usually seen down the hill near the monastery during summers where visitors are known to set up their dugouts for their stay. On two days during the month of July/August the whole village bustles up in celebration of the Korzok Gu-stor festival, mostly bringing in a big flock of the Chang-pas (Tibetan Plateau nomadic herdsmen). Highlighting the annihilation of evil in all forms, the festival witnesses dance performances by lamas clad in masks of the guardian deities. It also acts as an opportunity to remember the assassination of the Tibetan runaway King Lang-dar-ma at the hands of a Buddhist monk in the 9th century. The festival concludes with the distribution of the Storma (sacrificial cake) by the leader of the Black Hat dancers, represented through a ritual known as Argham (assassination).

Since long, the Korzok Monastery has served as the restorer of peace and order in the village, which had witnessed much chaos and bloodshed before its establishment. Portraying an undeniable touch of Tibetan architecture, the monastery has served as the sanctuary of supplicants who have been making their way towards it to dedicate their lives completely to Buddhism. It is here that you will feel more spiritually inclined and experience a makeover that you had never felt before.

Special Attributes

A 300-year old monastery near the banks of a high altitude lake known as Tso Moriri

Nuisance

The site is very peaceful and free of irritants.

Dressing restrictions

None. Wrap up in warm clothes as temperature can go down drastically during evenings.

Connectivity

Hired Taxis/Jeeps, Public Transport Buses

Enjoyed by

Singles, Backpackers, Nature Lovers

Exposure

You will remain indoors mostly.

Avoidable Season

November, December, January, February, March, April

Facilities

Basic. Plan accordingly

Things Not Allowed

No such restrictions

Tip

There is no communication facility in Korzok so you need to arrange for your stay and ride in advance. Try to take your own tents or find an accommodation at the Nomadic Life Camp

Type of site

Monastery