Spituk Monastery: A Spiritual Haven in the Heart of Ladakh

• Best Time to Visit Spituk Monastery: summer months of May to September
• Spituk Monastery Timings: Timings for Spituk Monastery are from 7 AM to 6:30 PM.
• Popular Attractions: Monastery Circuit, Stok Palace Museum, Gurudwara Pathar Sahib.
• Places to Visit near Spituk Monastery: Magnetic Hill, Tso Moriri Lake, Alchi Monastery
• Entry Fees for Spituk Monastery: Entry to the Spituk Gompa is charged 20 Rs per tourist.
• Time Required: You would require 2-3 hours to explore the monastery completely.
• Must Try Food near Spituk Monastery: Momos, Thukpa, Skyu, Chhutagi and many more
• How to Reach Spituk Monastery: By air, By Road and By Hiking.
• Things To Do at Spituk Monastery: Meditation, Interact with the monks, Spituk Festival, Pananormic View, Trekking and many more.
• Distance from Delhi: 930 km approx.

The word Spituk means “exemplary”, depicting the rise of the religious Buddhist community, their learning, and faith. The Spituk Gompa, better known as the Spituk Monastery or Pethup Gomba is an 11th-century monastery located on the hilltop overlooking the beautiful Indus River in Ladakh, India.

The beautiful Spituk Gompa was founded by Od-de, the elder brother of Lha Lama Changchub Od, during his visit to Mayrul. It is said that the site of Spituk is blessed by Arhat Nyimagung. The monastery is the home to more than 100 monks.  A giant statue of Kali is only revealed during the annual festival. Every year from the 27th to the 29th in the eleventh month of the Tibetan calendar, the Gustor Festival is celebrated in this 11th-century monastery.

The architecture of the Gompa monastery reflects the passage of time and its evolving influence. The buildings have a unique and harmonious blend of style and color depicting its rich past. The origin of the monastery design is uncertain, but it is evident that renovations according to the changing of times have been made.  Apart from Spituk Monastery, Leh and Ladakh have many beautiful monasteries to visit.

Travel Tips/Must Know Before the Trip

• Things to Carry: Warm clothing, Sturdy hiking boots, Sunglasses and sunscreen, Water bottles and snacks.
• Do’s and Don’ts: Respect local wildlife and habitats, Follow designated trails, do not litter, do not disturb or feed the wildlife.
• Permits: Inner Line Permit required for Indian tourists and Protected Area Permit for foreign tourists.
• Clothing: Layered warm clothing, Windproof and waterproof jackets, gloves, and many more. 
• Essential Items to Carry: Personal medication, First aid kit, Portable charger, Maps or GPS device.
• Route: From Leh, take the Leh-Manali Highway (NH3)

Spituk Monastery Travel Guide

The Spituk Gomba has seen a lot of transformation over time. In the beginning, the Spituk was a Kadampa Institution i.e. Red Hat, as we entered the 15th century, it turned into a Gelupa institution i.e. Yellow Hat. As the monastery grew, new structures were built, and architectural changes were made. In the present times, Spituk Monastery remains the most vital center for Buddhist practice and culture.

Leh and Ladakh are beautiful throughout the year, but due to heavy snow in winter, it becomes difficult to access most places. The summers of Leh-Ladakh are beautiful, April to September offers the most pleasant weather and is the best time to travel. There are plenty of things to do in Leh Ladakh – like trekking, mountain climbing, rock climbing, and cliff jumping that you can do during this period.  

The Spituk Gompa is 8 kilometers from Leh. From April to September, the weather is warm, making it easy to explore the monastery comfortably. However, if you wish to experience the Gustor Festival, plan your trip to Leh and Ladakh in the month of January. The weather can be harsh during these months. 

Keep in mind to approach this holy location with reverence, curiosity, and openness as you make your travel plans. Although this travel guide to Spituk Monastery is intended to assist you in making the most of your trip, experiencing the real spirit of the place is only possible when you are there. Thus, get ready for a life-changing adventure as you pack your bags, get into the spirit of Spituk Monastery, where you will uncover centuries of devotion and wisdom.

Suggested Reads:  Rafting in Ladakh.

Other Places to Visit in Ladakh

1. Khardung La Pass

Khardung-la Pass is one of the most popular places to visit in Leh Ladakh in May for visitors. Located at 18,380 ft, it is one of the highest motorable passes in the world. The pass connects Leh to the Shyok and Nubra valleys and is also the gateway to the Siachen Glacier.  

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2. Nubra Valley

Nubra Valley is another gem in the region and is popular as one of the most visited places in Leh Ladakh. Known for its magnificent dunes and majestic mountain ranges, this picturesque valley also houses several monasteries, which are great places to learn about the local culture and history. Read More

3. Shanti Stupa

Shanti Stupa is a must-visit spot in Leh Ladakh for tourists. Perched on a hilltop in the Changspa area, it offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The white-domed stupa is a symbol of peace and harmony. It’s a great place to relax and enjoy the beautiful scenery. 

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