23 Jan, 2023

Key Monastery Spiti Valley - 4 Things to Do & Best Time to Visit

 

 

Are you looking to explore the beautiful, majestic mountains of Spiti Valley? Key Monastery is one of the most popular and revered monasteries in India and a must-visit for any traveler. In this article, we cover everything from how to reach Key Monastery to what activities you can do there and when's the best time to visit. So, read on and get ready for a breathtaking adventure!

 

Key Monastery Spiti Valley 

 

Key Monastery Spiti Valley is a Tibetan Buddhist monastery situated in the Spiti Valley of Himachal Pradesh, India. The monastery is also known as Kye Gompa or Key Gompa. It is one of the largest and oldest monasteries in the region and is a popular tourist attraction. 

 

Key Monastery Spiti Valley was founded in the 11th century by Rinchen Zangpo, a Tibetan Buddhist teacher and translator who travelled to India to spread Buddhism. He built several monasteries in the region, including Key Monastery. The monastery was an important centre of Buddhist learning for centuries and played a significant role in the revival of Buddhism in Tibet after it had been suppressed by the Chinese Communist regime. 

 

Today, Key Monastery Spiti Valley is home to around 150 monks and nuns who live and study there. The monastery complex includes several temples, shrines, stupas, residential buildings, and a library with a collection of ancient texts. Visitors can explore the monastery grounds, attend religious ceremonies, and participate in meditation retreats. 

 

Best Time to Visit Key Monastery Spiti Valley

 

The best time to visit Key Monastery Spiti Valley is between June and September. This is when the weather is most stable and the days are longest. However, if you're looking to avoid the crowds, the shoulder months of May and October can also be good times to visit. 

 

 winters can be harsh in Spiti Valley, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. The monastery is also closed during this time. So unless you're an experienced winter adventurer, we recommend avoiding a visit during this season.

 

How to Reach Key Monastery Spiti Valley?

 

Nestled in the Spiti Valley of Himachal Pradesh, Key Monastery is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the region. The best time to visit Key Monastery is from June to September when the weather is pleasant and the monastery is open to visitors. 

 

The easiest way to reach Key Monastery Spiti Valley  is by taking a bus or shared jeep from Kaza, the nearest town. The journey takes about 2-3 hours depending on road conditions. You can also hire a private taxi or drive your own vehicle if you are comfortable with high-altitude driving. 

 

Things to Do in Key Monastery Spiti Valley

 

The Key Monastery Spiti Valley is a popular tourist destination and there are many things to do in and around it. Here are some ideas:

 

Visit the monastery itself – obviously! You can explore the buildings and learn about the history and culture of Tibetan Buddhism.

 

Take a hike – there are some great hiking trails in the area with stunning views of the valley below.

 

Visit nearby villages – there are several traditional villages close to the monastery where you can see how locals live and get a taste of traditional Himalayan culture.

 

Go on safari – if you’re lucky you might spot some rare wildlife like ibex, snow leopards or red pandas.

 

Places to Visit Nearby Key Monastery Spiti Valley

 

There are many places to visit near Key Monastery in Spiti Valley. Some of the most popular places to visit include:

 

1. The Kibber Wildlife Sanctuary: The Kibber Wildlife Sanctuary is a great place to see some of the rare animals that live in Spiti Valley. You can also see some amazing views of the valley from here.

 

2. Chandratal Lake: Chandratal Lake is one of the most beautiful lakes in Spiti Valley. It is surrounded by mountains and is a great place to relax and take in the scenery.

 

3. Kunzum Pass: Kunzum Pass is one of the highest passes in India and provides stunning views of the Himalayan Mountains. It is also a great place to start trekking in Spiti Valley.

 

4. Tabo Monastery: Tabo Monastery is one of the oldest monasteries in India and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is definitely worth a visit when you are in Spiti Valley.

 

Tips for Visiting Key Monastery Spiti Valley

 

When planning a trip to Key Monastery Spiti Valley, there are a few things to keep in mind. Here are some tips to help you make the most of your visit: 

 

-Key Monastery is located in a remote and isolated region, so be prepared for long travel days and basic accommodations. 

 

-The best time to visit Key Monastery is from May to October when the weather is milder. 


-Be sure to dress appropriately for the cold weather and bring plenty of warm layers. 

 

-There are limited food and drink options available at the monastery, so it's important to bring your own supplies. 

 

-There is no electricity at Key Monastery, so be sure to charge all of your devices before you arrive. 


- Visitors are welcome to explore the monastery grounds and participate in daily activities such as prayers and meditation.