Dhankar Monastery

Dhankhar Monastery / Dhankhar Gompa

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Spiti Valley

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Uncovering the secrets of Dhankar Monastery

Nestled high in the Spiti Valley lies the ancient Dhankar Monastery, a centuries-old fortress that has been an important part of local culture for generations. The monastery is perched on a hilltop, providing stunning views of the valley below. It’s no wonder that this place has become a popular destination for travellers looking to discover something unique and special. Let’s take a closer look at what makes Dhankar Monastery so special.

Dhankar Monastery is home to a number of ancient and interesting artifacts that can be found throughout the building, providing visitors with insight into its rich history. The main attraction at Dhankar Monastery is the large statue of Maitreya Buddha, a representation of future incarnation. It stands in front of the monastery’s entrance and is said to date back over 400 years. Inside, there are more than 30 shrines containing ancient statues and relics from many faiths including Buddhist, Hindu and Bon (an ancient Tibetan religion).

The site also contains some incredible examples of traditional architecture, including intricately carved wooden balconies and doorways as well as impressive frescoes on the walls. This unique artwork provides visitors with a glimpse into the history and culture of the area.

The monastery isn’t just a place of historical importance—it is also home to some amazing natural beauty. To get an even better view of the valley, visitors can climb up to the top of Dhankar Gompa, where they will be rewarded with breathtaking views that stretch as far as the eye can see.

The Dhankar Monastery provides an unforgettable experience for travellers looking to explore something unique and mysterious. Not only does it offer a chance to learn about its past but it also offers incredible scenery and stunning views that are sure to take your breath away!

Dhankar Monastery is one of the most unique and fascinating places to visit in India. Its rich history, stunning architecture, and breathtaking views will provide you with an unforgettable experience that you’ll never forget! Whether you’re looking for a place to learn more about the region or just want to take in some incredible beauty, Dhankar Monastery is a must-see destination.

Visit the majestic Dhankar Monastery today and discover all of its secrets firsthand! Explore ancient artifacts, take in the breathtaking views, and immerse yourself in India’s rich culture—you won’t regret it! Start planning your trip now and make sure to add this amazing site to your.

History of the Monastery

Dhankar Monastery was built in around 1100 AD by Rinchen Zangpo, a famous medieval scholar who travelled across Tibet and India to spread Buddhism. He established many monasteries during his travels, including Dhankar which served as one of his most important ones. This monastery was home to hundreds of monks over time and is still active today with a small population of monks living there.

What to See at Dhankar?

Dhankar Monastery is made up of several buildings, including a temple, stupas, prayer wheels and other structures. Inside the temple are several statues that are believed to be from the 11th century and are said to be very valuable cultural artefacts. The temple also contains some ancient manuscripts written in Tibetan script which have been preserved here for centuries. There is also an old meditation cave located near the temple where visitors can explore and learn about Buddhist teachings.

The monastery is also surrounded by picturesque mountainscapes with panoramic views of the valley below making it an ideal spot for photography enthusiasts or anyone looking to capture breathtaking images in nature’s beauty.

Dhankar Monastery is truly something special and well worth visiting if you ever find yourself in Spiti Valley. It’s not only an important historical site but also offers gorgeous scenery with opportunities to explore its culture and teachings through its exhibits and artifacts. So make sure you add this site to your list if you are planning on travelling through Spiti Valley!

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Tour Plan and Itenary

Where is Dhankar Monastery located?

Dhankar Monastery is situated at an elevation of approximately 3,894 meters (12,774 feet) in the Dhankar village, between the towns of Kaza and Tabo, in the Spiti Valley, Himachal Pradesh.

What is the historical significance of Dhankar Monastery?

Dating back over a thousand years (some sources say 7th century, others 11th-17th century), Dhankar Monastery served as the traditional capital of the Spiti Kingdom in the 17th century. It was once a fort and the residence of the rulers (Nonos) of Spiti. It's a repository of ancient scriptures, Buddhist paintings (thangkas), and murals, reflecting the rich history and cultural heritage of the region.

What are the main attractions at Dhankar Monastery?

The Old Monastery (Dhankar Gompa): Explore the ancient structure with its main prayer hall, statues of deities (including a revered statue of Vairochana or Meditating Buddha), ancient murals, and scriptures. Note that some sections are deteriorating, and entry may be restricted in certain parts.
Dhankar Fort: Explore the ruins of the ancient fort, which offers incredible panoramic views.
Dhankar Lake: A rewarding hike (about 1.5 to 2 hours trek) above the monastery leads to the serene Dhankar Lake (also known as Ser Khang Gompa Lake or Dhankar Tso). It's a peaceful spot with stunning reflections of the surrounding mountains.
New Monastery: A newer monastery has been built below the old one, which is more stable and also open to visitors.
Panoramic Views: The monastery offers breathtaking views of the Spiti Valley and the confluence of the Spiti and Pin rivers.

Is there an entry fee to visit Dhankar Monastery?

Generally, there is no formal entry fee for Dhankar Monastery. However, donations are highly welcomed and encouraged, as they contribute to the maintenance and preservation of this ancient site. Some sources mention a small fee for the Old Monastery (e.g., INR 50 for adults), so it's good to be prepared or confirm locally.

What are the visiting hours for Dhankar Monastery?

Dhankar Monastery is generally open from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily. It's best to visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the views and the serene atmosphere.

What is the best time to visit Dhankar Monastery?

The best time to visit Dhankar Monastery is during the summer and autumn months, from May to October. During this period, the weather is relatively mild and pleasant, and the roads to Spiti Valley are generally open and clear of snow. Winters (November to April) are extremely harsh with heavy snowfall, making travel difficult and many routes inaccessible.

How can I reach Dhankar Monastery?

Reaching Dhankar Monastery involves traveling to Spiti Valley, which is typically done by road:

By Road:
From Manali: This route (via Rohtang Pass, Kunzum Pass, and Kaza) is shorter but only open from late May/early June to mid-October due to snow. You'll reach Kaza first, then take a taxi or local bus for about 32 km to Dhankar (taking a diversion from Sichling).
From Shimla: This route (via Kinnaur Valley, Reckong Peo, Nako, and Tabo) is generally open year-round, though challenging in winter. You'll also reach Kaza (or be dropped between Tabo and Kaza at Dhankar diversion) and then proceed to the monastery.
Hiring a taxi or taking a local bus are common ways to reach Dhankar from Kaza or Tabo. The last stretch to the monastery often involves a short, steep hike.
By Air: The nearest airport is Kullu-Manali Airport (Bhuntar), approximately 265 km away. From there, you'll need to travel by road. Chandigarh International Airport is a major option further away.
By Train: The nearest major railway station is Kalka. From Kalka, you can take the Kalka-Shimla toy train to Shimla, and then proceed by road to Spiti.

Are there accommodation options near Dhankar Monastery?

Dhankar village is small and primarily offers homestays where you can experience local culture. Some guesthouses are also available. For more options, you can stay in nearby towns like Kaza (about 32 km away), which offers a wider range of hotels and guesthouses.

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