Tabo Monastery Spiti: A Complete Travel Guide for 2025

High up in the cold desert of Spiti Valley, there’s a tiny village that holds one of the oldest and most peaceful secrets of the Himalayas—Tabo Monastery. Built over 1,000 years ago, this quiet, mud-walled monastery isn’t flashy or grand like some others, but it holds a magic that’s hard to explain. Step inside, and it feels like time has stopped.

Tabo is known as “Ajanta of the Himalayas,” which makes it so special, and why it should definitely be on your Spiti itinerary—even if you’re not into monasteries (yet). Let us help you with the Tabo Monastery travel guide to understand the place better.

Surrounded by stunning mountain landscapes, Tabo Monastery is not only a spiritual center but also a treasure of history and art. Its peaceful atmosphere and rich cultural heritage attract both pilgrims and travelers seeking a glimpse into the region’s deep Buddhist traditions. Spiti tour packages can be planned all year round because of its cool climatic conditions.

How To Reach Tabo Monastery In Spiti Valley

• By Road: The most common way to reach the Tabo Monastery Spiti is by road. You can hire a private taxi or take a bus from Shimla, Manali, or other nearby towns to reach Spiti Valley. From Spiti Valley, Tabo Monastery is approximately 50 kilometers away, and the journey takes around 2-3 hours, depending on road conditions.
• By Air: The nearest airport to Tabo Monastery is the Kullu-Manali Airport (Bhuntar Airport), which is well-connected to major cities in India. You can hire a taxi from the airport or take a bus to Spiti Valley. The distance from the airport to Tabo Monastery is approximately 200 kilometres, and the journey takes around 7-8 hours.
• By Rail: The nearest central railway station to Tabo Monastery is Chandigarh Railway Station, which is well-connected to various cities in India. From Chandigarh, you can take a taxi or a bus to Spiti Valley. The distance from Chandigarh to Tabo Monastery is approximately 360 kilometres, and the journey takes around 10-12 hours.

Suggested read: Lahaul and Spiti Travel Guide