Lying just above Gemur Village between Keylong and Jispa on the Manali- Leh highway, Gemur monastery is one of the most easily accessible Monasteries in Lahaul. The main attraction of this religious shrine is the 11th-century statue of goddesses, Marichi and Vajravarahi, who are said to have their origins in Varahi, a Hindu goddess.
It is also claimed to be the richest monastery in Lahaul Valley and has an amazing bird’s eye view of the entire valley. With brightly painted red and black windows on a white-washed facade, Gemur Monastery is a sight to behold from a distance. There is a huge chorten before the monastery and a road is being built to make it easily accessible. One can see prayer flags fluttering all around the monastery which further enhances the surreal feeling which encompasses this entire monastery.
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History of Gemur Monastery
The main building consists of many brilliantly carved Stupas, and prayer rooms displaying relics and Tibetan art. The monastery also contains ancient Buddhist miniature paintings, wall paintings, chortens, statues and Buddhist artefacts.
It is also widely known for its Tshechu Faid which is held in June in Gemur Monastery, and especially the Cham Dance to commemorate the Fair, which is done by the lamas of the monastery, where the performers wear huge bright coloured animal or birds masks with brightly coloured costumes.
Gemur Monastery Tourism
- Travellers are nowadays very environmentally friendly and look for sustainable travel options, which has led to the rise of eco-friendly accommodations and tours that have a low impact on the environment while allowing tourists to engage with the local culture.
- Lahaul Valley, being nestled amongst the Himalayas, provides ample opportunities for trekking, mountaineering and river rafting, attracting adventure seekers to the region.
- With the rise in the popularity of mindfulness and wellness, many tourists come to Gemur Monastery for meditation and spiritual retreats, seeking tranquillity and enlightenment.
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Best time to Visit Gemur Monastery
Summer and early autumn are not only the best weather conditions but it also coincides with the colourful and vibrant festivals celebrated in this region. One of the most significant is the annual festival of Gemur, held in July. This religious and cultural event known as the Tshechu Fair features the ‘Cham Dance or Devil Dance’ performed by the monks in their traditional attire, attracting visitors and scholars from across the world who are interested in the rituals and traditions of Himalayan Buddhism.
September also brings in the harvest season and it is a time when the entire valley is bustling with agricultural activity and local festivals, offering an excellent opportunity for visitors to witness and engage with the daily life and festivities of the indigenous communities.
How To Reach Gemur Monastery
Tourists can reach the monastery by road. The nearest airport is Kullu Manali Airport in Bhuntar, followed by a road journey to Lahaul Valley. During the summer months, tourists can also travel via the Manali-Leh Highway and then take a detour from the highway to Gemur.
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Stays near Gemur Monastery
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any accommodation options near Gemur Monastery?
There are homestays and guest houses around the Monastery and the Gemur Village.
How old is Gemur Monastery?
Gemur Monastery is said to be 700 years old and the centre of Tibetan Buddhism.
How do tourists reach Gemur Monastery?
Gemur Monastery is on the Leh-Manali Highway and 14 kms from Keylong. You can either take a taxi or a car to reach the monastery which is also one of the most easily accessible monasteries in the Lahaul and Spiti region.
Are there any nearby attractions or points of interest to visit along with Gemur Monastery?
You can visit Keylong which is 14 kms from Gemur Village and Jispa which is 4 kms away from Gemur.