The village of Alchi is situated around 70 kms. from Leh on the left banks of the Indus river. The main centre of attraction in the Alchi village is the Alchi Gompa (monastery and temple complex), on the banks of the Indus river. Alchi is regarded as one of the most important Buddhist centers in Ladakh and also as the monastic jewels of Ladakh. The Alchi monastery dates back to nearly one thousand years and so the effect of the Tibetan influence can be seen in the local culture.