The quiet temples of Mangyu

Mangyu lies in a side valley off the Indus, reached by a narrow road that climbs from the river. The village is small, with fields, willows and a few houses. Its temples, built around the 13th century, are smaller than Alchi's but painted in a similar style and with equally fine detail. The setting is peaceful, with willows, streams and mountain views, and few visitors make the journey here. It feels very remote.

The main temples contain large statues of Maitreya and other bodhisattvas, along with wall paintings of mandalas, deities and the life of the Buddha. A caretaker from the village holds the keys, and your guide will arrange for the doors to be opened. With so few visitors, you can sit quietly and look for as long as you like. Your guide explains the iconography and how Mangyu relates to Alchi.

The drive from Alchi takes about 45 minutes, and the walk from the road to the temples is short. We combine Mangyu with lunch at Nimmu House or in a village garden. As at Alchi, photography inside is not allowed and a torch helps. A small donation or fee is expected at the temples. The road up the valley is narrow, so we use a suitable vehicle and drive carefully.