Khorzhak village stands on the bank of the Karnali about 20 km from Purang, near the road towards Hilsa. The monastery dates back roughly a thousand years and has been rebuilt after damage in the 20th century. Its red walls, prayer wheels and courtyard make it one of the more atmospheric shrines in far western Tibet, and pilgrims from Humla in Nepal visit it as often as yatris do.
In the main chapel, three silver-plated figures are regarded by Tibetans as bodhisattvas and by Hindu pilgrims as Ram, Sita and Lakshman, so the temple is known in India as Khojarnath. Butter lamps burn in front of them, and monks allow visitors to walk the inner circuit. Photography inside may be restricted; ask first.
The visit fits easily into the acclimatisation day, returning to Purang for lunch. At about 3,800 m, walking around the village and fields adds gentle exercise. Some itineraries visit on the way in from Hilsa, others on the way out.
Good for
- Pilgrims
- Families
- Seniors
Questions travellers ask
Why is Khojarnath temple important for Hindu pilgrims?
The main hall of Khorzhak monastery holds three silver-covered images that Hindu pilgrims identify with Ram, Sita and Lakshman, while Tibetans see them as bodhisattvas. That shared reverence makes it a popular stop for Indian yatris on the Hilsa route. It is about 20 km from Purang.
How far is Khorzhak from Purang?
About 20 km along the Karnali valley, roughly 30–45 minutes by road. Visits take 2–3 hours including the drive, so it fits comfortably into the rest day in Purang or the transfer between Hilsa and Purang.
Can I take photos inside Khorzhak monastery?
Rules vary; photography inside the chapels is often not allowed or requires permission and a small fee. The courtyard, exterior and village are fine to photograph. Ask the monks or your guide before taking pictures indoors, and never use flash on murals.
