Stongde Monastery sits on a ridge above the Zanskar River valley, roughly 15 kilometres east of Padum, with a commanding view over the valley and the mountains beyond. It belongs to the Gelugpa school and dates to around the 10th century, though the current buildings are largely more recent reconstructions. About 60 monks are resident here.
The monastery is less visited than Karsha or Sani, which makes it worth seeking out if you want a quieter encounter with Zanskar's religious life. The drive or walk up from the valley is steep; jeeps can manage the track in most conditions. The assembly hall contains good examples of traditional Zanskar thangka painting and some older butter sculptures. A separate small temple on the far side of the ridge is particularly atmospheric and usually open to visitors.