Leh, Sept 23: A day of living history unfolded for students of EJM College Leh as the Department of History organized an immersive tour across Ladakh’s most cherished cultural sites. Guided by Dr. Amjad Khan and Dr. Nazia Jabeen, students explored centuries-old monasteries and caves, gaining first-hand insight into the region’s artistic and historical heritage.
The journey began at Alchi Monastery, one of the oldest in Ladakh, famed for its detailed wall paintings, intricate wooden carvings, and early Buddhist art. Students toured the monastery complex, learning about the stories behind its murals and the traditions that shaped its creation.
Next, the group visited the Saspol Caves, also called Gon-Nila-Phuk Caves, in the Sham Valley. These rock-cut temples, adorned with murals dating from the 13th to 15th centuries, reflect the transition from Kashmiri to Central Tibetan painting styles. Two of the five caves still preserve vividly colored artworks created by followers of the Drikung Kagyu school, offering students a glimpse into the evolution of Buddhist art in the region.
The tour concluded at Basgo Monastery and Palace, a historic site that once influenced Ladakh’s political and cultural landscape. Students explored the ruins, absorbing the stories of past rulers and the cultural legacy embedded in the architecture.
The one-day excursion left participants with a richer understanding of Ladakh’s history and art, turning classroom lessons into a memorable, hands-on learning experience.
