Dhankar Village is one of those hidden treasures that few know about but many fall in love with! The place is surrounded by mesmerizing views, tall mountains, and beautiful landscapes, and feels like a peaceful escape from everyone.
The highlight of Dhankar is its ancient Dhankar Gompa, which dates back over 1,000 years, and also provides the best views and a spiritual experience during your Spiti Valley tour. This place is steeped in history and rich culture, once serving as the capital of Spiti. It’s a perfect destination for those who just want to immerse in the nature and relax in the peaceful surroundings.
Visitors can enjoy their local hikes, explore the Tibetan culture and know more about their heritage. It definitely feels like a timeless place that must be discovered!
Dhankar Village: Things You Should Know
How to reach Dhankar Village
Dhankar Himachal Pradesh, is accessible via road from Kaza, the nearest town. The village is situated approximately 34 Kilometers from Kaza. Here is a guide for you to know how to reach Dhankar Village!
By Road
- From Kaza: Travelers can hire a taxi or use local transport to reach Dhankar village. The road is motorable but can be challenging due to its steep area.
- From Tabo: Tabo to Dhankar distance is around 22 Kilometers. The route involves a detour at Schichling, where travelers can either hitchhike or trek the remaining distance.
By Bus
- From Kaza: There are limited bus services from Kaza to Dhankar Village. Travelers can take a bus to Schichling and then continue the journey by taxi or on foot.
By Trek
- Dhankar Lake trek: For the adventure to take place, a trek to Dhankar Lake offers a rewarding experience. It is of about 45 minutes to 3 hours, depending on the pace and the beautiful landscapes.
Also check out: Spiti bike trip
Best Time to Visit Dhankar Village
The best time to visit Dhankar Lake in Spiti Valley is from May to October. You get mild weather, and the trails are clear, making it perfect to enjoy the beauty of the lake.
Also, visiting Dhankar during these months allows you to fully immerse yourself in the peaceful and serene atmosphere of the area. On the other hand, during the winter months (November to April), heavy snowfall is common in the area.
Places to Visit In Dhankar Village
It is adjacent to the Dhankar Gompa, the ruins of Dhankar fort are still a representation of historical significance. People still visit it to explore the remnants and enjoy the views around the fort.
Location: 36R6+CQ9, Dhankhar, Himachal Pradesh 172113
Timings: 6 AM - 6 PM
Entry fee: NIL
It is a serene lake located in Spiti Valley! Reaching Dhankar Lake requires a moderate trek that starts from the Dhankar monastery and this typically takes around 45 minutes to 3 hours, depending on everyone’s chosen route or pace.
Location: Dhar Nipti, Himachal Pradesh 172113
Timings: Any time of the day
Entry fee: NIL
Things to Do in Dhankar Himachal Pradesh
- Trekking and Hiking: Besides the trek to Dhankar Lake, there are several other trekking routes around the village. These treks in Spiti offer stunning views and the chance to explore the natural beauty of the area.
- Photography: Dhankar village is a paradise for photography in Spiti. The unique landscape, ancient monastery, and views provide endless opportunities for capturing stunning images.
- Cultural Immersion: Spending time with the locals, learning about their way of life, participating in their festivals, and experiencing their daily routines can be a deeply enriching experience.
- Visit Nearby Villages: Exploring the nearby villages of Spiti Valley, like Lhalung and Kungri, can offer more insights into the local culture and traditions of Spiti Valley.
Places to Stay in Dhankar Village
1. Dhankar Monastery Guesthouse
Want to have a peaceful stay at one of the best hotels in Spiti? Do visit this simple and peaceful place located close to the iconic Dhankar Monastery. It offers comfortable rooms with modern amenities, making it perfect for those seeking to enjoy the serenity of the place.
The guest house is a great base for exploring the surrounding landscapes and experiencing the local culture. So, you can definitely book this tranquil place for your stay in Spiti!
Location: Dhankher home stay, near Old monastery, v.p.o, Dhankhar, Himachal Pradesh 172113
Price: INR 2,000 Onwards
2. Hanging Cliff Homestay
Dhankar Heights Homestay is a gateway to experiencing a soulful time in Spiti Valley! Enjoy the cozy rooms and private balconies that open up to the best views possible.
Want to unwind by the bonfire while stargazing in Spiti? This is the perfect place to be. It lets you soak the beauty in silence and also helps you enjoy the peace.
Location: 36R7+C87, Dhankar Monastery Ext, Lallung, Lalung Khas, Himachal Pradesh 172113
Price: INR 2,000 Onwards
4. Mochilero Ostello Spiti
Mochilero Ostello Spiti is a vibrant backpacker place located in the middle of Dhankar Village. This hostel is full of rustic charm and modern amenities, making it an ideal place for adventurers and solo travelers.
The accommodation has private rooms and mixed dormitories, catering to different preferences and budgets.
Location: Sichling-Dhankhar Gompa, Dhankar, 172113, India
Price: INR 1,000 Onwards
Places to Eat in Dhankar Village
In Dhankar Village, dining is all about simplicity and local flavours. While there aren’t many restaurants in Spiti, the homestays in the area offer an authentic taste of Spiti Valley.
You can savour the taste of Thukpa, momos, butter tea and much more! The homestay hosts take pride in serving home-cooked meals, often sharing their traditional recipes and stories. So, make sure you explore the food through the local sources and know the authenticity of the food.
