UNESCO Asia-Pacific Awards for Cultural Heritage Conservation 2004

The restoration of Dorje Chenmo Temple and its superb wall paintings demonstrates the value of an integrated and inclusive conservation approach to preserving cultural heritage. A key catalytic role in the project was played by the village Oracle, who, working with the project management team, encouraged extensive involvement by the residents of Shey in the conservation work, resulting in the reintegration of the temple into community life and the renewal of an appreciation for traditional construction techniques and decorative arts as appropriate to the continuity of local heritage. This project is an exemplary model for best practice in the conservation of the extensive religious heritage of Ladakh.