Kungri Monastery, also known as Kungri Gompa, is a calm and peaceful getaway for travellers to Spiti Valley. Being the second oldest monastery in the valley, it is renowned for its vivid festivals, old scriptures, and beautiful paintings. The monastery is surrounded by amazing scenery and is situated in the serene Pin Valley, providing guests a serene escape from the busy city life. The yearly Kungri Festival is a unique cultural experience with its traditional sword dance, music, and rituals on the banks of Pin River. In Spiti Valley, Kungri Monastery is a must-see location whether you are looking for spiritual rejuvenation or just some quiet time amidst nature.
About Kungri Monastery
Image Credit: Prof Ranga Sa for Wikimedia Commons
The Kungri Monastery is located in the Pin Valley, 10 km away from Attargo and 3 km from Gulling. The monastery is 3800 meters above sea level on a steep hill with a view over Kungri town. This Monastery is one of the oldest monasteries in the Spiti Valley. It is the only monastery that follows Nyingmapa Buddhism. The Kungri Gompa is one of the most visited shrines for pilgrims, tourists, and scholars of Buddhism. The inner part of the Kungri Monastery has beautifully carved and coloured paintings of the Buddhist gods on the walls. If you visit the area between June and July, you will be privileged to see the famous Devil Dance or Chham in the monastery.
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History Of Kungri Monastery
Image Credit: Prof Ranga Sai for Wikimedia Commons
It is believed that Kungri Monastery was constructed in the early part of the 14th century. It shows the rich legacy of the Tibetan tradition in the Pin Valley from ancient to the present. The Kangri Monastery’s interior walls are decorated with various silk paintings representing different Buddhist gods. Additionally, the monastery features huge sculptures and more than 300 volumes of the renowned Tibetan classics, Kenjur and Tenjur, which have been carefully preserved in white muslin material.
Places To Visit Near The Monastery
While this monastery is a work of art, it is surrounded by more such beautiful places. Here is a list of places that you can visit near Kungri Monastery :
1. Mudh Village
Image Credit: Timothy A. Gonsalves for Wikimedia Commons
Mudh Village is the last populated village in Pin Valley, located about two kilometres from Kungri Monastery. It provides an insight into Spiti Valley’s customary way of life. Visitors can walk around the village, talk with polite residents, or spend time in the beautiful mud-brick homes. For those interested in learning about the area’s history, this small village offers peace and an authentic cultural experience.
Entry Fees: Free
Timings: From 7 AM to 5 PM
Must See: Traditional mud-brick homes, connect with locals, and enjoy scenic views of Pin Valley.
Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Spiti Valley
2. Pin Valley National Park
Image Credit: Timothy Gonsalves for Wikimedia Commons
Pin Valley National Park is a nature lover’s wish come true, located close to Kungri Monastery. This park is home to various plants and animals, including the endangered snow leopard. To explore the amazing scenery and see a variety of wildlife species, visitors can take advantage of guided hikes or wildlife safaris. The park is a must-visit location for everyone looking for a full nature experience because of its calm beauty and rich biodiversity.
Entry Fees: ₹20 for Indians, ₹100 for foreigners
Timings: From 9 AM to 5 PM
Must See: View from treks, wildlife safaris, snow leopards
3. Dhankar Monastery
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Dhankar Monastery offers priceless glimpses of Buddhist art and culture. Inside, there are beautiful paintings, thanks, and statues. Upon their visit to the monastery, visitors can observe the daily prayers and rituals performed by the monks. These spiritual activities provide a peaceful and informative experience. In addition, the monastery offers stunning views of the surrounding valley and mountains, making it an ideal location for both nature lovers and photographers.
Entry Fees: Free
Timings: Open all day, but it is good to visit during the daytime
Must See: Mountain view, amazing views of Spiti and Pin River
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Top Hotels To Stay Near The Monastery
Tired? Looking to spend the night? We have got you covered. We have curated a list of hotels near the monastery where you can stay:
1. Tenzin house Homestay
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Tenzin House Homestay offers tourists a pleasant stay in the picturesque region of Himachal Pradesh. It is a home away from home that offers well-equipped spacious rooms for guests to relax. The travellers staying here can see the beautiful view of the mountains, which offers a calm ambience that is suitable for relaxing. The guests can taste home-cooked food made from fresh, locally sourced produce and explore the area’s culture. For adventurous souls or those who just want to relax and rejuvenate, Tenzin House Homestay serves as an ideal starting point to discover the stunning landscapes of Himachal.
Address: Purana Bus Stand, Near Snowlion Hotel, Kaza Khas
Price: Rs 1700 onwards
2. Manirang cafe & Homestay
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Travellers staying at Manirang Cafe & Homestay can have comfortable lodging services located in the mountain region. It is a perfect hotel for tourists looking for some peaceful regional fresh Himachal food. There is a homestay where guests are warmly welcomed, and the house offers breathtaking views of the mountains. Visitors can have some rest and get some fresh air, take walks in the surrounding area, or use the facilities as a home base for visiting trails and area attractions. This homestay combines the homeliness of a hotel with the warmth of mountain folk culture, making it a must-stop in Himachal.
Address: VPO, Dhankhar, Spiti Valley
Price: Rs 3000 onwards
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3. Hotel Himalayan Hermitage
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Hotel Himalayan Hermitage is a traditional hotel run by the locals; the Himalayan Hermitage Hotel in Kaza provides modern amenities merged with the cultural hospitality of Spiti. Located in the beautiful area of Spiti Valley, this hotel offers comfortable rooms with facilities of the contemporary world along with the scenic beauty of mountains. The in-house restaurant offers a variety of local specialities, and the guests can relax in the serene environment unique to the Spiti region. Being located in Kaza, the Hotel Himalayan Hermitage is perfect for travellers: to start with, the beautiful nature, monasteries, and cultural sites for tourists are within easy access.
Address: Near Veterinary Hospital, Kaza, Himachal Pradesh
Price: Rs 4000 onwards
Best Time To Visit The Monastery
Image Credit: Prof Ranga Sai for Wikimedia Commons
July is the ideal month to visit the Kungri Monastery. This entire month is dedicated to cultural festivals; among the highlights are the devil dance and sword dance, which are crucial parts of the Nyingmapa sect’s tradition. Numerous tourists from all around the world come to this festival. Experience the monks focusing and reading holy prayers when you visit the monastery during prayer hours. The place has a wonderful ambience that transports you elsewhere.
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How To Reach The Monastery
Image Credit: Timothy A. Gonsalves for Wikimedia Commons
To visit the Kungri Monastery, head to the Pin Valley in Spiti first. Kaza is 16 kilometres away from the Pin Valley. Some government buses run from Kaza to Pin Valley, though they do not run very often. Getting a bike or taxi from Kaza is the best choice. The terrain that separates Pin Valley from Kaza is naturally quite adventurous. The Spiti River runs by you as you travel across this rough terrain. After arriving in Pin Valley, proceed to Gulling Village. Gulling Village and the monastery are only three kilometres apart. Beautiful scenery and photographic possibilities exist from Kaza to Kungri Monastery. One cannot possibly miss even a single minute.
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Kungri Monastery offers tourists an amazing destination that they would find interesting and informative, depending on their curiosity about this area. The monastery’s historical artwork provides a beautiful experience. Travellers can experience something genuinely amazing by interacting with the peaceful surroundings and customs. To find out what to do, you must plan a trip to Spiti Valley.
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Cover Image Credit: Prof Ranga Sai for Wikimedia Common
Frequently Asked Questions About Kungri Monastery
What is the significance of Kungri Monastery in history?
The monastery is devoted to the Nyingmapa school of Buddhism. It is also the second-oldest monastery worldwide. Thus, it holds huge significance for scholars, pilgrims, and tourists from all over the world who practice Buddhism.
What views and activities can travellers at Kungri Monastery expect?
The main element that sets the Kungri Monastery apart from all other monasteries in Lahaul and Spiti is its architecture. The monastic interior is to be displayed and photographed. Giant statues that honour the Buddhist tradition and silk paintings decorate the walls. Additionally, monasteries display a variety of statues and depictions of Buddhist deities. The monasteries are made more visually appealing by the display of historical items and religious literature.
Does Kungri Monastery host any festivals or special events?
There is a cultural festival held in July each year. Travelers and Buddhist monks from around the world come to Kungri Monastery to participate in and see the festivities. A specific devil dance and sword dance are done during the festivities, adding to the overall beauty.
How does one go to Kungri Monastery? When is the best time to go there?
The monastery is only three kilometres away from Gulling, from where visitors can get there. Starting in Kaza, visitors can travel to Pin Valley and then on to Gulling. In July, when a cultural event takes place, the summer months are ideal for visiting the monastery.
Is Kungri a monastery dedicated to Buddhism?
The sole monastery that is a part of the Nyingmapa order of Buddhism is Kungri Monastery, which is also the second-oldest Gompa in the Lahaul and Spiti Valley. In addition, it is the most traditional branch of Tibetan Buddhism.
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