- Description

Hemis Village has been recognized as the Best Tourism Village 2023 in Silver Category.

Nestled among the tranquil mountains of trans Himalayan.
The village is known for serene abode of Buddhism, the Hemis monastery established in 11th century offers a tranquil setting for individuals seeking inner reflection, mindfulness and spiritual retreats.

Hemis, with its initiatives aimed to conserved and preserve the environment, bags multiple Guinness World Records.

- INTRODUCTION

Hemis is a quaint little village located at a distance of around 45 kilometers from Leh. Located just behind the village is white monastery complex that sits perched atop a hill.

The population of the village according to the 2011 census is 313 and the lates annual tourist inflow of the village is (Domestic – 59870 and International – 8445). The village has set up 4 homestays under the Ladakh Homestay Policy 2020. Total number of available accommodation in the village 5 Units with 60 Units of beds.

- THEME

Buddhist Culture and Natural Attraction (As the village reflects Buddhist culture and art, one can understand the art and culture of the village influenced by the Buddhism. Natural beauty or scenic beauty can be explored by tourists also in the village such as Hemis National Park, MarkhaHemis Trek, Rural and Agro Tourism.)

- NEARBY ATTRACTION

1. Stakna Monastery

2. Chemdey Monastery

3. Matho Palace

4. Thiksey Monastery

5. Shey Palace

6. Leh Town

- INITIATIVE/ EVENTS/ ACTIVITIES

1. The well-being of the local culture and natural assets with the economic growth of the community through responsible and sustainable tourism practices, cultural exchange, preservation of traditional knowledge and craft, resource management, and economic empowerment will safeguard these invaluable elements for generations to come.

2. Hemis Monastery's spiritual significance attracts pilgrims and spiritual seekers. The peaceful atmosphere and spiritual practices in the monastery offer a retreat-like experience for those seeking inner reflection and tranquility.

3. Hemis village gains further tourism significance through the Naropa Festival, a grand event that celebrates the life and teachings of the great Indian sage Naropa.

4. Zero waste initiative, Community initiative such plantation drive, Grenn initiative such as sola recharging station and Climate conscious infrastructure.

5. Tourism revenue supports conservation efforts, as locals recognize the value of preservation.

6. A dedicated management committee oversees both the monastery and its tourism initiatives.

7. The Department of Tourism, Administration of UT Ladakh is also funding an eco-park and parking facility near the monastery

8. The Ladakh Hill Development Council Leh has funded an all-weather public convenience infrastructure.

9. The Neropa Fellowship Program (Entrepreneurial Leadership Program), an initiative by the Hemis Monastery is a post graduate academic program in Entrepreneurship and Leadership that fosters future leaders in Himalayan region.

- IMPACTS

1. The Naropa Festival showcases traditional music, dance performances, religious rituals, and exhibitions that offer insights into Naropa's contributions to Buddhism.

2. This festival adds another layer of cultural richness to Hemis village, making it a focal point for those interested in witnessing rare and profound spiritual gatherings in the Himalayan region.

3. Rural tourism has not only increased local earnings through accommodations services but has also resulted in job growth in other fields such as tour guiding, culinary arts, crafts, etc. effectively tackling issues of unemployment.

4. Tourism demands have led to improved infrastructure like roads and transportation.

5. Tourism diversifies income sources beyond traditional agriculture, enhancing stability when people operate homestays, cafes and work as guides.

6. The village committee oversees both the monastery and its tourism initiatives. This committee creates livelihood opportunities for locals through museum operation, café management and public facilities upkeep.

7. Additionally, they facilitate visitor orientation and provide interpreters for enhancing visitor experience.

8. Under Swadesh Darshan 2.0, Ladakh has instated a Destination Management Organization to develop theme-based tourist destinations around Leh and Kargil towns

9. The "Zero Waste Hemis Monastery" initiative, led by Little Green World, has educated Hemis residents on segregated waste collection.

10. They've also installed specialized bins for plastic waste, categorized by plastic type. Waste management is further supported by Project Tsang-da.

11. The Naropa Fellowship program focuses on creating and nurturing agents of change who will work towards fostering an ecosystem of entrepreneurship and growth while preserving the cultural heritage of Ladakh and the Himalayan region