Nestled in the beautiful valleys of Ladakh, the Diskit Monastery is one of the largest and oldest monasteries. It is located in the Nubra valley in the Leh district. Changzem Tserab Zangpo, a disciple of the Tsong Khapa, founded it. At an elevation of 10,308 feet, it offers breathtaking views that will leave you spellbound, making it a must-visit not only for its spiritual haven but also for how gorgeous it is inside and out.
Historical Significance Of Diskit Monastery
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The construction of the Diskit Monastery, which belonged to the Gelugpa sect, dates back to the 14th Century. Changzem Tserab Zangpo was a disciple of Tsong Khapa, whose teachings influenced many who visited this monastery. Throughout history, we can see instances of the Diskit Monastery being attacked.
Traders and travellers often came here not only for blessings but also to seek protection, as the Diskit Monastery was built along the silk route, behind which a lot of strategic thought was put in.
Must Read: Offbeat Places In Ladakh
Architecture Of the Diskit Monastery
The Tibetan and the Ladakhi culture influence the architecture of the Diskit Monastery. It is so stunningly built out of wood and mud bricks. The aesthetic appeal of the monastery doesn’t diminish because of the materials it is constructed from. It is built out of wood and mud because the environmental conditions are such that it was a practical way out. You will get to explore the Buddhist culture by looking at the intricately carved structures and murals inside the monastery. The colours are so vibrant that they bring the interiors to life and look alluring.
The wall paintings inside the Diskit Monastery are so pretty. A prayer hall inside the Diskit Monastery will give you a lot of history about the Buddhist guardian deities through carvings and images. The Mongolian and Tibetan religious texts are safely preserved inside the Monastery as they are sacred to the Buddhists. It would help if you climbed to the top of the Diskit Monastery for the picturesque views of Ladakh, which are phenomenal and a sight for sore eyes.
Best Time To Visit The Monastery
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It is worth visiting the Diskit Monastery during the ‘Festival of the Scapegoat’, also known as the Domsoche, which dates back to the 17th Century. It is celebrated on different days every year. Still, it mainly falls in February, with much zeal and enthusiasm throughout Ladakh to welcome the start of the new year and keep all negative energy away.
The monks from the Gelgupa sect wore vibrant costumes and performed rituals and many dances. These masked dances, or cham dances, symbolized driving away all evil and welcoming fresh and new energy in the new year. Another ritual involved curating images and throwing them away to symbolise peace and prosperity.
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Jampa (Maitreya) Buddha
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Just below the monastery is where the office of the chief lama of Nubra resides at the foothills, and one can even see one of the most famous tourist attractions: the statue of Jampa (Maitreya) Buddha, which is 106 feet in height. This tall statue’s construction started in 2006 in April and was completed in 2010 in July. The thought behind constructing this statue was to protect the Diskit village from attacks from the enemy, establish peace and prosperity, and avoid further attacks from Pakistan.
It is believed that Maitreya would bring in a new era in the world with new teachings, who would be the successor to Gautama Buddha when there was a need for new teachings, and that would only happen when the teachings of Gautama Buddha were contaminated. The statue is finely adorned with many gold ornaments and fine robes, adding to the statue’s magnificence and Buddha is sitting posture. The statue is made out of cement and copper. It is one of Ladakh’s most famous tourist attractions, and you must see it once, especially if you visit the Diskit Monastery.
Other Things To Do Near The Monastery
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If you want to add other things to your itinerary when you visit the Diskit Monastery, here is a list curated just for you!
- Just near the Distik Monastery is the Tuktuk village, a quaint place with a lot of cultural heritage such as a mosque with absolutely stunning architecture and also the famous Balti Heritage Museum.
- If you want to add some adventure to your day, there are many options, such as cycling. Is there a better way to take the breathtaking landscapes and feel the gushing calm wind?
- Try rafting in the Nubra River if you love water activities.
- Hunder village is located very near Diskit Monastery. With gorgeous landscapes, take a camel ride and enjoy the beautiful views.
- If you are looking for something therapeutic or a cure for any body pain, you have to add Panamik to your itinerary. The hot water spring over there is believed to have healing properties!
Further Read: Places To Visit In Leh Ladakh
A trip in the mountains, Ah! The dream. Sipping on a cup of hot chocolate while looking outside at the breathtaking views sounds perfect, doesn’t it? A trip to Ladakh promises you the best seat to some of the most beautiful views that will captivate you, forever etched in the deep corner of your heart. The Diskit Monastery in Ladakh is a gem you cannot miss with its vibrant cultural heritage of the Buddhists, and the intricately designed architecture of the monastery is a must-add to your itinerary if you want some calm away from the chaos.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Diskit Monastery
If I go to Diskit Monastery in the evening, will it be open?
Yes, it will be open until 7 p.m. It opens from 7 a.m. till 2 p.m. and then at 2 p.m.
What are some restaurant recommendations near the Diskit Monastery?
Enjoy some of the most delicious food at Valley Flower Camp, The Barley Dine, Wachan Garden Restaurant, Gyantse Restaurant, and The Bonfire.
When is the best time to visit the Diskiit Monastery in Ladakh?
You should plan your trip to the Diskit Monastery in Ladakh during October and March and enjoy the pleasant and cool weather. If you want to see the grand celebration of Domsoche, plan your trip in February.
Would I have to pay any entry fee at the Diskit Monastery?
Yes, you must pay a minimal INR 30/-.
Where else can I go in Ladakh besides the Diskit Monastery?
Pangong Tso, Thiksey Monastery, Magnetic Hill, Phyang Monastery and Hemis National Park - to add to your itinerary as they are some of the most beautiful locations in Ladakh.
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