Religion

Zanskar is a predominantly Tibetan Buddhist society, belonging largely to the Drukpa Kagyu and Gelugpa schools of Himalayan Buddhism. * **Buddhist Heritage:** Key monasteries such as Karsha, Phugtal, Bardan, Stongdey, and Dzongkhul are vital centers of religious life, meditation, and community gathering. * **Demographics:** The vast majority of the population follows Buddhism. There is a small but historically significant Sunni Muslim minority, primarily residing in and around the administrative center of Padum. * **Daily Life:** Religion permeates daily life, visible in the ubiquitous prayer flags fluttering on mountain passes, *mani* walls (stones inscribed with mantras), and *chortens* (stupas) dotting the landscape.