Perched on a hill along the ancient Silk Route that once connected Ladakh with Kashmir, the Mulbekh Monastery holds deep historical and spiritual significance in the Kargil region of Ladakh. Thought to have been established in the 8th century by early Buddhist missionaries, the monastery played a key role in the spread of Buddhism throughout the area.

Its most iconic feature is the towering rock-cut statue of Maitreya Buddha—the Buddha of the Future—which rises nearly nine meters high. This grand sculpture, carved directly into a cliff face, is considered one of the earliest and largest representations of Maitreya in Ladakh. Depicted in a serene seated posture, Maitreya’s right hand is shown raised in a gesture of blessing, while his left hand rests calmly on his lap in a meditative pose. The statue stands as a testament to the rich cultural exchange along the Silk Route and remains a symbol of faith and artistry that continues to inspire visitors and devotees alike.