In ladakh these have always been the center of religious, social, economic and even political functions. They are a living institution, especially because of their ecological position in a country where the barren mountainous character of the landscape forces the economy to function on a collective basis.

Most of the gompas lie on major ancient trading routes extending from Tibet to Ladakh, among them Hemis, Thiksay, Alchi, Lamayuru, Ringdom, Karsha etc. Almost all the gompas follow a code of architecture. The interior is divided into several halls of which Du- Khang, the main prayer hall, is more spacious. A Gompa also has dwelling cells, library and a large courtyard where dances and other ceremonies are performed.