Sani
This picturesque village is 6 kms west of Padum, on the road to Kargil. The chief
attraction here is the castle like monastery which, unlike other monasteries of
the region, is built on level ground. By legend its initial foundation is associated
with Kanishka on account of the Kanika Stupa which stands in the backyard of the
walled complex.
The main building comprises a huge multi-columned central prayer hall housing
an array of statues of popular Buddhists divinities and Drugpa (Old Schools) high
saints.
The most interesting frescoes, however, can be seen in a small, almost discarded
chapel at the back of the main building, whose walls are adorned with stucco murals
depicting landscapes and floral designs based on the life of Padma-sambhava.
Adjoining this monastic complex is an old cemetery surrounded by a ring of ancient
rock carving which reflect Indian artistic influence.
Sani is also associated with Naropa, the famous Indian yogi from Vikramsila, who
is said to have sat in meditation for some time under the Kanika Stupa.
The site is now occupied by a small room housing a veiled bronze figure of the
Yogi, which is unveiled, once a year in late July.
A 2-day long festival is held to celebrate this occasion, which is attended by
people from far, and wide monks from Bardan Monastery perform masked dances as
ritual offering.
How to Reach ?
The 240 km long Kargil-Padun road, of which the first 90 km stretch is paved,
remains opened from around mid July to early November. The J&K SRTC operates
a thrice weekly B-class bus service from Kargil. However groups can charter A-Class
or even Super-Deluxe buses to visit Zanskar, including the interior places of
interest like Strongdey, Zangla and Karsha. Jeeps and Gypsy taxis can also be
hired at Kargil.
During June and early July, prior to opening of the road, it is recommended to
walk into Zanskar from panikhar or Parkachik onwards. In June, the summer is at
its height in the region and the climate is ideal for trekking along the route
free from vehicular traffic of any kind and when the countryside is freshly rejuvenated
into life after months of frigid dormancy.
