The Monasteries in Spiti aren’t just tourist spots to visit, but are the living spaces where monks chant, old scriptures are carefully preserved and locals gather for festivals in Spiti. Some of the famous monasteries in Spiti Valley are over a thousand years old, and their walls are painted with stories of the Buddha and much more enlightening.
You can witness some of the oldest monasteries in India, including Key Monastery, Tabo Monastery, Dhankar Monastery, and Gue Monastery, with the specialized Spiti tour packages. Explore the unique designs and Buddhist artworks, which attract a large number of visitors.
So, here is your chance to seek more knowledge about the spiritual and cultural essence of Spiti with the best monasteries in Lahaul Spiti.
Best 11 Monasteries in Lahaul Spiti
One of the best monasteries in Spiti Valley, the Key Monastery finds itself at the top spot for all the right reasons. It is the most iconic and oldest monastery in India, Himachal Pradesh. Located at an altitude of 13,668 feet, this majestic monastery offers amazing views of the Spiti River and the snow-capped Himalayas.
The Key monastery has stunning architecture inspired by Tibetan Buddhism, mixed with touches of Indian and Chinese styles. It is a beautiful place, and also an important centre for learning, where nearly 3,000 Buddhist monks come to train every year.
Built like a three-story fort, the monastery has a central tower that holds a statue of the Buddha. Inside, the walls are decorated with colourful frescoes, detailed murals, and traditional thangka paintings that tell stories of faith and wisdom.
Location: 72X6+4QM, Key, Pinjoor, Himachal Pradesh 172114
Timings: 6 AM to 6 PM
Entry Fee: NIL
Tabo Monastery is one of the oldest monasteries in India. It is located in the quiet village of Tabo in Spiti Valley and was founded over a thousand years ago, in 996 AD. Because of its long history, people often call it the “Ajanta of the Himalayas.”
ThIs Spiti monastery has nine temples, old meditation caves, and many beautiful paintings and clay statues. Its walls are covered with ancient murals that show scenes from the life of the Buddha. Even today, monks live and study here, keeping centuries-old traditions alive.
Location: 39VM+C56, Tabo, Dhar Gangchhumi, Himachal Pradesh 172113
Timings: 6 AM to 6 PM
Entry fee: NIL
Also check out: Spiti backpacking Trip
Tangyud Monastery is one of the highest monasteries in Spiti, located at around 4,500 meters near the village of Komic in Spiti Valley. It looks almost like a fortress, with thick mud walls and small windows built to withstand the harsh mountain winds.
The monastery follows the Sakya tradition of Tibetan Buddhism. Inside, you’ll find colorful prayer flags, old scriptures, and statues of different Buddhist deities. Because of its remote location, Tangyud feels peaceful and untouched, as if time has slowed down here.
Location: 64P6+497, Komic, Dhar Lung Wooh, Himachal Pradesh 172114
Timings: 6 AM to 6 PM
Entry fee: NIL
Gemur Monastery is a peaceful Buddhist monastery near Keylong in Lahaul Valley, Himachal Pradesh. Located on a small hill above the Bhaga River, it offers beautiful views of the mountains all around.
This monastery belongs to the Drukpa sect of Tibetan Buddhism. Inside, you’ll find old statues, colorful wall paintings, and ancient manuscripts that share stories of faith and wisdom.
Every year, Gemur Monastery comes alive during its annual festival. Monks dress in bright costumes and perform sacred masked dances called Cham, which are believed to protect the monastery and bring blessings to the people.
Location: J45W+VHC, Gemur, Himachal Pradesh 175132
Time: 6 AM - 6 PM
Entry fee: NIL
Dhankar Monastery is one of the most remarkable places you can visit in Spiti Valley. It is located high on a rocky cliff about 1,000 feet above the Spiti and Pin Rivers, and it almost looks like it has grown out of the mountain itself. The word “Dhankar” means “fort on a cliff,” and this monastery once served as both a place of worship and a fort to protect the valley.
Built over 1,000 years ago, Dhankar belongs to the Gelugpa school of Tibetan Buddhism. You’ll find old statues, ancient scriptures, and a small prayer hall that feels full of history. The monastery is also known for its stunning views. Standing here, you can look out over miles of dramatic mountains and river valleys.
Location: 36Q7+R29, Sichling-Dhankhar Gompa, Dhankhar, Himachal Pradesh 172113
Timings: 6 AM - 6 PM
Entry fee: NIL
Tayul Monastery is a peaceful Buddhist monastery located about 6 Kilometers from Keylong in Lahaul Valley. Built in the 17th century, this monastery belongs to the Drukpa Sect of Tibetan Buddhism.
One of the most interesting things about this Spiti Monastery is its rotating prayer wheel, which is said to turn on its own during special times of the year. Locals believe this is a sign of spiritual power.
Though it isn’t as big as some other monasteries in Spiti, Tayul has a warm, welcoming feel. It’s a great place to learn about Buddhist traditions and enjoy the quiet beauty of the mountains.
Location: H396+VXQ, Himachal Pradesh 175132
Timings: 6 AM to 6 PM
Entry fee: NIL
Also known as the ‘Golden Temple’ because of its golden-colored premises, the Lhalung Monastery is a place of immense cultural and spiritual significance. Built in the 11th century, the monastery is one of the region’s oldest and most well-preserved examples of Tibetan Buddhist architecture and art.
One of the fascinating stories about this monastery is that the area surrounding the monastery can change colors, and the colors change according to the mood of the Lhalung god, which is why this monastery is also known as a cultural and spiritual marvel of the Spiti Valley.
Location: 46WM+7W5, Lallung, Lalung Khas, Himachal Pradesh 172113
Timings: 6 AM to 6 PM
Entry fee: NIL
Kardang Monastery is the largest monastery in Lahaul Valley, just across the river from Keylong. Surrounded by high mountains and open fields, it feels calm and welcoming.
This monastery is over 900 years old and belongs to the Drukpa sect of Tibetan Buddhism. Inside, you can see beautiful statues, old thangka paintings, and shelves full of ancient texts. There’s also a huge prayer drum and colorful flags fluttering in the wind.
One thing that makes Kardang special is that it’s home to both monks and nuns, who live, study, and practice their faith together. During festivals, the monastery becomes lively with traditional masked dances and ceremonies.
Location: Khardang Gompa, Himachal Pradesh 175140
Timings: 6 AM to 6 PM
Entry fee: NIL
Kungri Monastery or Kungri Gompa is one of the best monasteries in Spiti and is a spiritual haven in the heart of the Spiti Valley. The monastery was founded in the 14th century by the great Tibetan teacher Kunga Rinchen and is home to a community of monks who practice the Gelugpa tradition of Tibetan Buddhism. It has played an important role in preserving and promoting Tibetan Buddhist culture in the Spiti Valley monastery.
Travelers from all over the world visit this Spiti monastery to get a glimpse into the Buddhist culture and their way of life. Travelers visiting this valley also come here to participate in the annual Sword Dance and Devil Dance.
The monastery also possesses a plethora of murals, frescoes, silk paintings and all the essential elements to get an insight into the Buddhist culture and heritage. The monastery with everything that it has, for sure will leave a lasting impact on those who visit.
Location: 23XH+JXW, Kungri, Bharya, Himachal Pradesh 172114
Timings: 6 AM to 6 PM
Entry fee: NIL
High above the valley, surrounded by blue pine trees, Shashur Monastery feels like a hidden retreat. Just 3 kilometers from Keylong, this 17th-century Spiti monastery was founded by a Bhutanese lama who chose this quiet spot for meditation and teaching.
What makes Shashur especially special is its annual festival. Monks put on bright silk robes and wooden masks to perform Cham dances, sacred rituals meant to clear away negativity. The sounds of drums and long horns echo through the valley, drawing villagers and travelers together.
Location: Shashur Gompa, Himachal Pradesh 175132
Timings: 8 AM to 5 PM
Entry fee: NIL
11. Guru Ghantal Monastery
Guru Ghantal Monastery, also known as Gandhola Monastery, is one of the oldest monasteries in India. This Spiti Valley monastery features unique wooden architecture and ancient murals. The monastery offers a tranquil environment and a glimpse into the region’s rich history. Undoubtedly, Guru Ghantal Monastery is one of the best monasteries in Lahaul.
Location: Tupchiling, Himachal Pradesh 175140
Timings: 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily
Entry fee: NIL
Travel Tips for Visiting Monasteries in Lahaul Spiti
Here are some necessary travel tips for visiting these famous monasteries in Lahaul Spiti.
- Remove your shoes before entering the monasteries in Spiti.
- Dress modestly and keep your shoulders and knees covered.
- Keep your voice low and be respectful in any Spiti monastery.
- You need to ask before taking photographs in the monasteries.
- Carry water, snacks and sunscreen with you.
- Say “Julley” to greet locals politely.
- Check festival dates if you want to see the ceremonies in Spiti Valley monastery.
