Structure of Mulbekh Monastery in Kargil
Mulbekh monastery is a distinctive place of worship for Buddhists in this Muslim dominated region. The two Gompas of this monastery are affiliated to Drugpa and Gelugpa sect. While Drugpa is related to Kargyu school of Tibetan Buddhism while Gelugpa follows yellow hat sect of Tibetan Buddhist religion. The most significant feature of this monastery is the 9 meters long statue of Maitreya Buddha standing tall since centuries and overlooking Srinagar Leh Highway, earlier known to be the Silk Route of Trade in the region.
Some ancient edicts are also found near this rock face idol of Maitreya Buddha in Mulbekh. These edicts are written in Kharoshti or an ancient Indic script. Inside the monastery, you will find beautiful murals, paintings and priceless relics. There is an idol of 11 headed Lord Avalokiteswara enclosed in a glass chamber. Also, there are precious thangkas adorning the prayer hall of this monastery.
Maitreya Buddha Statue at Mulbekh Monastery in Kargil
This statue is the main attraction of Mulbekh. In local language, Maitreya is also called as Chamba. Hence, the monastery is also known as Mulbekh Chamba due to presence of this rock cut statue. There are several opinions regarding the date of carving of this statue. Some historian opine that it was built by the Kushan Dynasty in 1st Century AD while there are other who believe that it came into existence during 8th Century.
Despite the different opinions behind its existence, the statue beautifully depicts Gandhara style of carving. This carving style was prevalent in Kushan dynasty spread across South Asia. As such, it displays beautiful mix of Buddhist arts and Shaivite symbolism. Interestingly, the entire statue is carved out of a single rock. This is a four armed figure of Chamba. The face of this statue bears striking semblance to Lord Shiva. Probably, this promoted the belief that it was built by the Buddhist monks who carved this statue, did not belong to Tibet.
However, you have to enter the monastery to witness this ancient art of Buddhist monks. The statue is not completely visible from the road. The lower part is covered with the small temple that was built in 1975.
How to Reach Mulbekh Monastery from Kargil
This monastery is situated at distance of 45 km from Kargil city on National highway 1D. The buses and taxis are easily available from Kargil to reach Mulbekh village. The place is convenient to reach and deserve a stopover to enjoy its mystique environment and historical significance.
