Temples in Spiti Valley
Spiti Valley is one of the main centres of Tibetan Buddhism in India, and its monasteries, called gompas, are the heart of village life. Many stand on ridges or cliffs above the river, so a visit usually comes with a wide view of the valley.
The best known are Key Monastery near Kaza and Dhankar Monastery on its crag above the meeting of the Spiti and Pin rivers. These are living monasteries where monks study and pray, so dress modestly and follow the rules of each gompa.
Famous Monasteries in Spiti Valley
Key Monastery is the largest monastery in Spiti. Its white buildings are stacked up a cone-shaped hill about 12–14 km from Kaza, and it belongs to the Gelugpa school of Tibetan Buddhism. It holds old murals, thangkas and a community of young monks.
Dhankar Monastery sits on a crumbling cliff above the Spiti–Pin confluence, close to the old fort of Dhankar, once the capital of Spiti. The old gompa is fragile, and a newer monastery stands in the village below.
Tabo Monastery, lower down the valley, was founded in 996 AD and is one of the oldest working Buddhist monasteries in India. It is known for its wall paintings and clay figures.
Kungri Monastery in the Pin Valley belongs to the Nyingma school, the oldest school of Tibetan Buddhism, and is an easy stop on a drive to Mud village.
Tips for Visiting Monasteries in Spiti Valley
- Wear modest clothes that cover your shoulders and knees.
- Take off your shoes and hat before entering a prayer hall.
- Walk clockwise around stupas, prayer wheels and shrines.
- Ask before taking photos, and do not use flash near old murals.
- Keep your voice low, especially during prayers.
- Do not touch statues, thangkas or ritual objects.
- Climb slowly to hilltop monasteries, as the altitude makes steps tiring.
Questions
Spiti Valley — FAQ
What are the famous monasteries in Spiti Valley?
The best known are Key Monastery, Dhankar Monastery, Tabo Monastery and Kungri Monastery in the Pin Valley.
Can I stay overnight at Key Monastery?
Key Monastery has offered simple rooms to visitors, which lets you join morning prayers. Availability changes, so ask at the monastery or check locally before you plan on it.
Which is the oldest monastery in Spiti Valley?
Tabo Monastery, founded in 996 AD, is the oldest and is still in use. Key and Dhankar are also around a thousand years old, though both have been damaged and rebuilt over time.
What should I wear to monasteries in Spiti Valley?
Cover your shoulders and knees and wear shoes you can take off easily. Floors can be very cold, so warm socks help.