The word Phugtak has been derived from the local dialect ‘phuk’ which stands for cave and ‘tal’ which means leisure. The ancient cave of Phugtal monastery is seated in the remote village of Phugtal. The Phugtal monastery is placed on the cliff-side and sits near by the Lungnak river. It is the only Buddhist monasteries in Leh Ladakh which can be only accessed by foot.
The monastery is built from blocks mud and wood and it is the most isolated monasteries. The monastery comprises of a temple, prayer rooms, library and residential quarters. It belongs to gelug sect of Tibetan Buddhism and swarms of festivals take place throughout the year. When it comes to the accommodation in this remote place, they are available for tourists.
When you take a day out and opt for trekking towards Phugtal monastery it will add delight to your discovery. The cave of Phuktal beholds the gripping view of Zanskar valley. The point of place from which trekking kick-starts is from Cha Village in Zanskar. At first you have to choose a bike or hire a taxi, yet for the remaining journey, you have the opportunity to explore by foot. The best time to visit is from the months of May and September.