Dhankar Monastery in Spiti Valley!

History of Dhankar Monastery:

It is an important center for Buddhist learning and belongs to the Gelugpa Order of Tibetan Buddhism. The monastery houses a revered statue of Vairochana, or the Meditating Buddha, which is a focal point for visitors. In addition to the monastery, Dhankar is known for its ancient murals, thangkas (Buddhist religious paintings), and scriptures. It is located at the confluence of the Spiti and Pin Rivers, adding to its natural beauty and spiritual aura.

Despite its remoteness, Dhankar attracts tourists seeking both spiritual insight and natural beauty. The area around Dhankar offers several other attractions that are popular among visitors exploring this unique part of India.

How to reach Dhankar Monastery?

By Air: Arrive at arrival at Kullu-Manali Airport. This airport is well-connected with several cities in India. You can hire a taxi or a private car to reach Dhankar Monastery directly. The monastery is located approximately 265 kilometers. The journey typically takes about 8-10 hours by road due to the mountainous terrain.

By Train: You can take a train to Kalka, which is a major junction nearby. From Kalka, you can either continue your journey by train to Shimla or take a bus/taxi to Shimla or Manali. From Shimla or Manali, you will need to travel by road to Spiti Valley. 

By Road: To reach Dhankar Monastery by bus, you would typically start from the nearest major town with bus connectivity to Spiti Valley, which is Reckong Peo or Kaza. There are regular buses in both the ways. After reaching Spiti Valley, you can hire a taxi or cab to reach the monastery.

Best time to visit Dhankar Monastery:

Monsoon Season: The monsoon season in Dhankar Monastery spans from July to September. During this time, the region receives moderate to heavy rainfall, which can sometimes lead to landslides due to the mountainous terrain. The weather is generally humid, and the frequent rains can affect travel conditions in the area.

Summer Season: During the summer months from April to June, Dhankar Monastery enjoys relatively mild and pleasant weather. Temperatures can range from cool to comfortably warm, making it an ideal time to visit for those who prefer moderate weather conditions.

Winter Season: Winter in Dhankar Monastery from November to February is quite harsh and cold, with temperatures dropping significantly. Snowfall is common during these months, transforming the landscape into a picturesque winter wonderland. The monastery and the surrounding areas are usually covered in snow, creating a serene and isolated atmosphere.

Things to do at Dhankar Monastery:

Dhankar Monastery, nestled in the scenic Spiti Valley of Himachal Pradesh, offers several activities and experiences for visitors interested in exploring its cultural, historical, and natural beauty. Here are some things you can do at Dhankar Monastery:

Visit Dhankar Gompa: Explore the ancient Dhankar Monastery, perched dramatically on a high rocky cliff overlooking the confluence of Spiti and Pin rivers. The monastery, dating back to the 7th century, is a Tibetan Buddhist monastery of the Gelugpa (Yellow Hat) sect. Admire the architecture, murals, and religious artifacts inside the monastery.

Enjoy the Scenic Views: Dhankar offers stunning panoramic views of the Spiti Valley and the surrounding Himalayan mountains. Take time to soak in the beauty of the landscape from various viewpoints around the monastery.

Hike to Dhankar Lake: Embark on a hike to Dhankar Lake (also known as Ser Khang Gompa Lake), which is about a 1.5 to 2-hour trek from Dhankar Monastery. The lake is located at an altitude of around 4,100 meters (13,450 feet) and offers serene surroundings amidst the mountains.

Explore Dhankar Village: Wander through the traditional mud-brick houses and narrow alleys of Dhankar Village, interacting with the friendly local residents and experiencing the local culture and lifestyle.

Photography: Capture the breathtaking landscapes, ancient architecture of the monastery, vibrant prayer flags fluttering in the wind, and the everyday life of the people in this remote mountainous region.

Attend Monastery Rituals: If timing permits, participate in or observe daily rituals and prayers conducted by the monks at Dhankar Monastery. The atmosphere during these rituals is serene and spiritually uplifting.

Visit Dhankar Fort: Explore the ruins of the ancient Dhankar Fort, which was once the residence of the rulers of Spiti Valley before they shifted to newer forts like the one in Kaza.

Experience Local Cuisine: Enjoy traditional Spitian food at local eateries in Dhankar Village, experiencing flavors unique to the region.