Dhankar Monastery & Village and are one of the most beautiful landmarks of Himachal Pradesh. Located in the remote Spiti Valley, this village is positioned on a mountain cliff at 3,894 meters. Therefore, this site offers promising views of the valley and river below. Nature lovers and explorers should surely visit this beautiful place at least once in their lifetime.
Dhankar Monastery and Village is one of the most prominent highlights of Himachal Pradesh. It is just 34 kilometers from Kaza, and one can easily reach it by road. Dhankar Monastery in this village is one of the most famous spots that people from across the world come to explore. It is a 1000-year-old structure that showcases a balance of culture and architecture. People often wonder how this structure survives under extreme weather conditions. Moreover, visitors to this monastery can expect to see scriptures, murals, and thangkas. If you are also planning to visit Dhankar Monastery, take a closer look at its history, best time to visit, nearby places, and more to make your travel stress-free.
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Overview of Dhankar Village
Dhankar Village is a remote and ancient establishment in Spiti Valley, Himachal Pradesh. It is situated between the towns of Kaza and Tabo. Being a small village, it houses fewer than 70 houses. Moreover, this village sits at a height of 3,894 meters and is famous for its stunning Dhankar Monastery. Apart from this, its historical significance as the traditional former capital of the Spiti Kingdom makes it special. From Dhankar village, travelers can see the beautiful views of the Spiti and Pin River valleys.
Why is Dhankar Monastery so famous?
Dhankar Monastery is one of the key highlights of the Dhankar Village in Spiti. Also known as Dhankar Gompa, this site is a 1000-year-old Buddhist temple and a former fort in the region. The word Dhankar itself means “cliff fort”. It is believed that this place was the royal capital of the Spiti Kingdom and is made using traditional mud, stone, and timber. The interiors of this place feature ancient murals, scriptures in the Bhoti language, and old paintings. Tourists visiting the Dhankar monastery often do a short hike that leads to the Dhankar Lake.
How to Reach Dhankar Monastery?
If you are planning to visit the Dhankar Monastery in Spiti, you can choose from a range of transportation options. Here is a closer look at how to get there:
- By Road: One of the easiest ways to reach Dhankar is by road. You can hire a private taxi or bus from Manali to Kaza, and later from Kaza, Dhankar is approximately 35 kilometers away. Tabo is also situated close to Dhankar, making the overall journey scenic for you.
- By Air: Bhuntar Airport is the nearest airport to Kullu. After reaching Kullu, you will need to take a cab or bus to Kaza and then follow the road route to Dhankar. It is a little tiring and a long journey, but the views make it worth it.
- By Train: Choose the train if you are looking for an affordable means of travel. Joginder Nagar and Kalka Railway Station are the closest to this spot. From either of the stations, you can take a bus and get a taxi to reach Manali or Shilma and then to Dhanakr Monastery.
What is the Best Time to Visit Dhankar Monastery?
To experience the magic of Dhankar Monastery and Village in its purest form, make sure to plan your tour during May to September. During this time, the Spiti Valley experiences pleasant weather, and daytime temperatures make it comfortable for tourists to engage in sightseeing and trekking. Moreover, the roads during these months are generally open and in better condition, which further makes it easy for visitors to reach Dhankar easily from Tabo or Kaza.
Places to Explore Near Dhankar Monastery
One can make their trip to Dhankar Monastery even more thrilling and beautiful by exploring nearby attractions. These attractions are popular because of their stunning mountain views, peaceful surroundings, and unique experiences. Here are some of the best places to visit near Dhankar Monastery:
1. Dhankar Lake
After an hour of hiking from Dhankar village, you can reach the magnificent Dhankar Lake. It is one of the most beautiful spots near the monastery and is surrounded by tall mountains, with crystal clear water that reflects the blue sky. Visitors can explore this site, take beautiful pictures, and enjoy nature away from the crowds.
2. Tabo Monastery
Tabo Monastery, situated at a distance of 32km from Dhankar, is one of the oldest Buddhist monasteries in India. Built over a thousand years ago, it is famous because of its ancient paintings, statues, and meditation halls. Visitors can walk through its old rooms and get to know about the Buddhist traditions, while feeling the calm and spiritual environment.
3. Pin Valley National Park
Pin Valley National Park is a paradise for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. The park is known for its beautiful landscapes, rare animals, and colorful mountain views. Lucky visitors may spot animals such as ibex, Himalayan foxes, and snow leopards. The peaceful surroundings and fresh mountain air make every visit a memorable and enjoyable experience.
4. Kaza
Kaza is the biggest town in the Spiti valley, and it is the central hub for travellers visiting the area. It has local markets, cafes, hotels, and cultural attractions as well. Visitors may shop for handmade souvenirs, sample the local food, and interact with friendly residents. Kaza is also a good base for exploring nearby villages and monasteries.
5. Langza Village
Langza Village is famous for its giant Buddha statue and breathtaking mountain scenery. The village is also famous for ancient marine fossils that can still be found in the surrounding area. Visitors enjoy exploring this calm village with their loved ones.
Things to Do at Dhankar Monastery
Here are some of the best activities that tourists can do in the Dhankar Monastery:
- Tour the Old Gompa: Have a sight of the 1000-year-old main shrine that has a four-seated statue of the Dhyan Buddha. It is one of the key attractions that should not be missed.
- Climb to Dhankar Fort: Dhankar Fort has its own history and significance. Therefore, you can plan your visit here and navigate the ruins of the ancient cliff fort that once protected the Spiti Valley rulers.
- Attend Monastic Prayers: To understand Buddhist culture deeply, observe and join daily morning and evening chanting rituals held by the resident monks.
- Savor Local Cuisine: Stop at the small eatery spots near the monastery. Taste local Spitian dishes that are unique to this high-altitude region.
Tips for Visiting Dhankar Monastery
To make sure that your trip to Dhankar Monastery is safe and enjoyable, follow the tips below properly:
- Dhankar is situated at a height of 3,894 meters (12,774 feet). It is advised to spend at least two nights at lower altitudes like Shimla, Sarahan, or Kalpa before ascending.
- To stay hydrated, make sure to drink plenty of water.
- The weather of the region could change drastically; make sure to carry necessary sickness pills after consulting your doctor.
- Always take the monk’s permission before taking pictures of the temple interiors.
- Make sure to dress modestly when visiting a religious place. Avoid shorts, sleeveless tops, and revealing clothes.
Plan Your Visit to Dhankar Monastery & Village
Dhankar Monastery and Village are among the most beautiful places in the Spiti Valley. Everything from ancient Buddhist culture and stunning mountain views to peaceful surroundings and exciting hikes, this destination offers a diverse range of experiences. Even if you want to learn about history, enjoy nature, or escape busy city life, Dhankar is a wonderful place to visit. Plan your trip during the summer months, explore the nearby attractions, and make unforgettable memories in this unique Himalayan village.
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