Ladakh is perfect for a dream refuge high up in the hills. It is also known for its rich cultural heritage, such as its many monasteries—one is the magnificent Diskit Monastery, one of the oldest and largest monasteries in Ladakh. Another famous monastery, founded by Od-de, is a renowned Buddhist monastery—Spituk Monastery, located in Ladakh at an elevation of almost 11,000 feet. Popularly, the Spituk Monastery is also known as Pethup Gompa.
Historical Significance Of The Spituk Monastery
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The monastery’s origins can be traced back to the 11th Century when Od-de visited Maryul. He introduced the community of monks. It was proclaimed that a religious community that would be absolutely flawless would come into being, which led to the creation of the Spituk Monastery, which literally translates to exemplary. In the 15th Century, the Gelugpa took over the Spituk Monastery, which is a Red Hat institution.
According to the Tibetan calendar, the Gustor Festival is celebrated with great joy and excitement in the 11th month, starting from the 27th day until the 29th day. The monks from the Gelgupa sect wear vibrant costumes and perform rituals and many dances. These masked dances, or cham dances, are symbolic of driving away all evil and welcoming fresh and new energy in the new year.
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The Architecture Of The Spituk Monastery
The Spituk Monastery is an architectural wonder you would not want to miss. The carvings and the gorgeous murals are intricately carved. You will learn much more about Buddhist history and culture by witnessing the monastery’s many structures of Buddhist deities. Of course, the highlight of the monastery is the massive statue of Lord Buddha, which is magnificent. You will even get to see statues of deities such as Tsongkhapa, the founder of the Gelugpa school, and Guru Rinpoche. The Spituk Monastery is even home to the great statue of Kali. The locals in Ladakh call it “Mahakala”.
The most fascinating fact about the statue of Kali is that the Gustor Festival, celebrated in the 11th month of the Tibetan calendar, is the only time you can see the statue of Kali. For the rest of the year, the statue is veiled. For all history enthusiasts, there is a museum within the Spituk Monastery where you can find a wide array of arms, paintings, and even masks to learn more about the rich cultural heritage of the Buddhists and even Ladakh. The monastery houses many religious and sacred texts within the Chokhang Shrine. One of the highlights of the Chokhang Shrine is an image showcasing Amitabha, the Buddha of Infinite Light.
Why Should The Spituk Monastery Be A Part Of Your Itinerary?
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To witness the spiritual magic of the Spituk Monastery in its truest sense, please visit the monastery when the serene chanting ceremonies take place daily. The gorgeous landscapes surrounding the Spituk Monastery are a delight to the sore eyes and will leave you amazed.
Immerse yourself in the rich biodiversity and enjoy the monastery’s serenity and tranquillity. The Spituk Monastery also has a school where the monks are imparted Buddhist teachings, texts, culture, and traditions.
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Other Tourist Attractions Near The Spituk Monastery Within 150 km
Several tourist attractions near Spituk Monastery are also worth checking out while you are in the area. Here are some of the most popular tourist attractions near Spituk Valley within 150 km:
1. Nubra Valley
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The scenic landscapes of the Nubra Valley are sure to leave you enchanted. It is also called the Moonland because the valley resembles the moon’s land during winter. There are many beautiful Buddhist monasteries such as the Hunder Monastery, Samstemling Monastery, and the Diskit Monastery. Reach the Nubra Valley through the Khardung La Pass another tourist attraction you must not miss owing to the enchanting scenery.
Location: Ladakh, 194401
Distance from Spituk Monastery – 120 km
Nearby Restaurants – The Bonfire Restaurant, The Cho Cafe, The Chuli
2. Yarab Tso Lake
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A lake with surroundings that are so pretty all around is Yarab Tso Lake. It is located near the Diskit Monastery, spending a day filled with serenity and tranquillity at the Yarab Tso Lake. Plan a picnic or stroll around the Yarab Tso Lake and witness the gorgeous setting sun for a blissful evening. The Yarab Tso Lake is adorned with lush green valleys and trees all around, adding to its beauty. It is a hidden gem nestled in the Nubra Valley, which seems less crowded than other tourist attractions in Ladakh.
Location: Yerep Tso, Nubra Valley, Tiricha, Ladakh 194401
Distance from Spituk Monastery – 125 km
Nearby Restaurants – The Safari Restaurant
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3. Hunder Sand Dunes
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The Hunder Sand Dunes are too nestled within the alluring Nubra Valley in Ladakh. The sand, as snow as white, seems so magical. A desert adorned with magnificent mountains is surely a fascinating sight you wouldn’t want to miss. One of the highlights of the Hunder Sand Dunes is the Bactrian camels, enjoy a camel ride and all the enchanting landscapes along the way. Witness the sunset in a desert with mountains. That is surely going to be an experience you remember for a very long time!
Location: Hunder 194401
Distance from Spituk Monastery – 120 km
Nearby Restaurants – Valley Flower Camp, The Barley Dine, Wachan Garden Restaurant
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Doesn’t it seem like an ideal vacation to sip hot chocolate and look at some of the most gorgeous landscapes? Plan a trip to Ladakh to relish the serenity and tranquillity that has become so difficult to find in the busy city life. A spiritual haven which is the Spituk Monastery in Ladakh, has a spiritual charm that you want to witness in person, making it a must-add to your itinerary. A few days amidst the gorgeous mountains promises a vacation full of spell-binding views. So, what are you waiting for? This is your cue to take some days off from work and book your tickets to Ladakh as soon as possible for a vacation full of alluring landscapes with a mix of spirituality; a few days amidst the most spellbinding views is sure to lift your spirits!
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Frequently Asked Questions About Spituk Monastery
Can I go to Spituk Monastery in Ladakh in the evening, will it be open?
Yes, it will be open till 6:00 p.m. in the evening and in the morning it opens at 6 a.m. in the morning.
What are some restaurant options near Spituk Monastery in Ladakh?
Enjoy some of the most delicious food at The Tibetan Kitchen, Bon Appetit, Gesmo Restaurant, Lamayuru Restaurant, and Corretto Leh.
When is the best time to visit the Spituk Monastery in Ladakh?
To enjoy the winters and even witness snowfall, visit the Spituk Monastery which is located in Ladakh during the months of October and March
Will there be any entry fee to enter Spituk Monastery?
Yes, you will have to pay a minimal amount which is INR 30/-.
What other tourist spots are recommended in Ladakh?
Add Hemis National Park, Pangong Lake, Yarab Tso Lake, and the Magnetic Hill to your must-visit places in Ladakh to witness views that will leave you spellbound.
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