Share to facebookShare to instagramShare to pinterestShare to linkedin

History of Gandhola Monastery

Highlights of the Gandhola Monastery
featured-image

Gandhola Monastery in Spiti

Gandhola Monastery or Guru Ghantal Monastery in Spiti Valley, is located 18 Kilometers before Keylong in Lahaul and Spiti District. It is situated on a hill above Tupchiling Village at the sacred junction of the Chandra and Bhaga rivers, which together form the Chenab River. 

Gandhola Monastery is among the best places to visit in Spiti Valley for tourists to look at and explore the culture. So, why not know more about this ancient relic by having a great Spiti Valley trip booked for this year? 

Yes, this could be the time to explore such monasteries in Spiti Valley with all the excitement to know more about such places.

History of Gandhola Monastery

The Gandhola Monastery was founded by Padmasambhava during the 8th century and is now connected with the Drukpa Lineage of the Kagyu school of Tibetan Buddhism. Now, according to the local traditions, the Padma bka’i thang, discovered in 1326 in the Yarlung Valley by Urgyan Lingpa, the site was connected with Padmasambhava. But, this site was a Buddhist establishment even earlier than that. 

It is said to be the oldest monastery in the Lahaul region. And, in the year 1857, historians discovered a copper goblet which was the oldest example of metalwork from the 1st century. Then, the other instance depicted that the Buddhist civilization was very advanced at that time as well. The rocky cliffs of Tupchiling village where the Gandhola Monastery is situated are very close to the point where there is a confluence of the Chandra and Bhaga rivers. 

Now, the Gandhola Monastery is maintained by the order of Drukpa monks and nuns, like other monasteries. It also comprises some of the religious treasures with amazing architectural specimens which is really valued. Also, in 1959 it went through a major renovation but the charm always remained still for the Gandhola Monastery. 

Suggested read: Spiti in winter

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQS)

Q:What is Gandhola Monastery?

Q:What can visitors expect to see at Gandhola Monastery?

Q:How can visitors access Gandhola Monastery?

Subscribe to our Newsletter

Subscribe to our newsletter to receive exclusive offers, latest news and updates.

You have already subscribed our newsletter!
Thanks for Subscribing our newsletter!

Looking for a hassle free trip?

Connect with our experts! Get the best Itineraries and Offers!

WANDERON EXPERIENCES PVT LTD

3rd Floor, Building No-436, Phase IV, Udyog Vihar, Sector-18, Gurugram, Haryana-122015

© WANDERON EXPERIENCES PVT LTD, All rights reserved.
bak
Request a Call Back
Request a Call Back

Where do you want to go next?

Make your move, fill out your details now!
icon
icon
icon
msg
Thank you! Your form has been submitted successfully. We'll be in touch soon.
Your details have been submitted. Our Expert will get in touch with you soon.