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Diskit Monastery, also referred to as Diskit Gompa is a prominent Buddhist monastery situated within the Nubra Valley, in Ladakh India. Built in the 14th century by Changzem Tserab Zangpo, this monastery is the oldest and the biggest in the area and belongs to the Gelukpa or Gelug sect of Tibetan Buddhism. It is well known for its interesting history, impressive architecture and peaceful surroundings. Diskit Monastery as a structure has been endangered at various points in history, through wars fought and naturally occurring phenomena. Despite all these challenges, it has billowed as one of the very significant citadels of Buddhist culture and learning in the area.
Diskit Monastery Location
Photo: Hynek Moravec / Wikimedia Commons
The Diskit Monastery is located in the extremely beautiful Nubra Valley of the Ladakh region of northern India, about 115 km from Leh town. At a height of 10,315 feet above sea level, it provides stunning views of the surrounding terrain, which also includes the majestic Shyok River and the beautiful Himalayas. It was situated in the strategic placement along one of the old trade routes as a solace for striving pilgrims. Over periods, it has also played a role in the propagation of education and safeguarding of culture.
How To Reach Diskit Monastery
Photo: Eatcha / Wikimedia Commons
Following are the instructions provided to visiting tourists about how to get to Diskit Monastery:
From Leh: Embark on your journey from Leh the capital of Ladakh, easily accessible by air and road networks. Follow the Leh-Khardung La-Nubra Valley route which is approximately 116 km away from Leh Town. This route provides breathtaking views of the Karakoram mountain range and the valley of the Shyok River. After you arrive in Diskit Village, the monastery is situated on the hilltop over the village. You can either climb the stairs or take a small drive up to reach the entrance of the monastery.
By Public Transport: Local buses, shared transports and taxis can also be utilized for travel from Leh to Diskit or any other region in Nubra Valley. This means of domestic transport starts at the main bus stand in Leh and takes the same road through Khardung La Pass. The bus journey to Diskit from Leh has a duration of about 6-7 hours owing to the many stop-overs and a more leisurely movement.
Places To Visit In And Around Diskit Monastery
When you are in Diskit Monastery, don’t forget to take note of the following points of interest situated nearby:
1. Maitreya Buddha Statue
Photo: Bharatahs / Wikimedia Commons
The Maitreya Buddha Statue located at the Diskit Monastery is one of the tallest statues in the world measuring 106 feet (32 m) in height constructed in the depth of a valley as a peaceful and protecting figure to all the inhabitants of Nubra Valley. The statue is handmade from copper and has a golden face and crown, it is placed at the eye line of the rivulet of Shyok signifying watching over the valley. The visitors are also allowed to capture the surrounding landscape as they are offered many coloured prayer banners in a garden surrounding the statue.
Location: Diskit Monastery
Best Time To Visit: Early morning or late afternoon
2. Hunder Sand Dunes
Photo: sushmita balasubramani / Wikimedia Commons
The Hunder Sand Dunes in Ladakh’s Nubra Valley are a mesmerizing whirlpool of golden sands encircled with snow-clad mountains giving its visitors a unique experience. Comprising a high-altitude desert that stands roughly 4000m above sea level, the rich golden-coloured dunes offer an eye-catching contrast to the green-rich mountains in the adjacent valleys. The region is noted for its Bactrian camels which can be seen on the dunes and offer rides for tourists, similar to the ones used in the historical Silk Route. Different activities like camel safaris or photography of the scenery and beautiful sunsets are also available to the tourists.
Distance From Diskit: Approximately 8 km
Travel Time: About 15 minutes by taxi
Best Time To Visit: May to September for camel rides
3. Nubra River
Photo: Kishrk91 / Wikimedia Commons
The Nubra River, which rises from the Siachen Glacier and unites with the Shyok River near Diskit, runs through the picturesque Nubra Valley located in Ladakh, India. The Nubra River is famous for its picturesque blue sky and refreshing crystalline blue water, surrounded by breathtaking mountains and valleys, thus enticing many nature lovers. There is also a river rafting activity on the river with crazy fun but effortless rapids suitable for beginners and trained rafters alike.
Location: Nubra Valley, easily accessible from Diskit
Best Time To Visit: May to September when water levels are suitable
4. Panamik Village
Photo: Garima Bhatia / Wikimedia Commons
Panamik Village is located at an elevation of 10,442 ft in the Nubra Valley in Ladakh, India and is a very beautiful place to visit. Beautiful scenery and healing hot sulfur springs are some of the trademarks of Panamik. These hot springs, which many people hold have curative benefits, are another reason why you can find people in these hot springs. Mountains and greenery surround this town thus creating a peaceful setting far from the unbearable tourist attractions.
Distance From Diskit: Approximately 30 km
Travel Time: About 1 hour by taxi
Best Time To Visit: May to September for pleasant weather
5. Samstanling Monastery
Photo: Prof Ranga Sai / Wikimedia Commons
Samstanling Monastery located in the beautiful Sumur Valley of Nubra is one of the most noteworthy and ancient monasteries in Ladakh. Established towards the end of the 19th century, this monastery is an important Tibetan Buddhist monastery with very attractive architecture and a calm environment. Sitting in the lap of lofty mountains, Samstanling has beautifully done wall paintings, lovely paintings and a peaceful surrounding that encourages meditation and contemplation. Approximately 50 Monks reside in the monastery to attend religious studies and practices, thus enriching the spiritual content of the monastery.
Distance From Diskit: Approximately 35 km
Travel Time: About 1 hour by taxi
Best Time To Visit: May to September
Where To Stay
Photo: Kgbo / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The Nubra valley in Ladakh has a variety of places to stay, especially close to the Diskit Monastery. The best would have to be the guest house within the premises of the monastery, as it avails breathtaking views of the surroundings and offers a calm monastic setting. However, some more luxurious guest houses and hotels can be found in Diskit Village, which is approximately 8 km from the monastery. Himalayan Regal House provides a good balance between the two, offering local food and cultural warmth, which is fantastic for people who want to rest after an adventure. Otsal Guest House has a reputation for serving friendly service and delicious food and is within walking distance of Diskit Monastery.
Where To Eat
Photo: Sharada Prasad CS / Wikimedia Commons
There are several eating places close to Diskit Monastery which serves local Ladakhi and Tibetan foods, in addition to other cuisines. The Barley Dine is a comfortable place with great food that serves Indian and Tibetan cuisine. Himalayan Regal House is known for its local hospitality and offers an extensive menu filled with local delicacies. In TT Restaurant one can relish some filling dishes like momos, thukpa and many more casual meals. These eateries also allow the customers to enjoy a variety of meals ranging from the quick bites to the sit-down meals thus allowing the visitors to the Diskit Monastery to enjoy the local cuisines fully.
Best Time To Visit
Photo: John Hill / Wikimedia Commons
The ideal time to explore Diskit Monastery is from May through September fumbling over the summer season. The summer season in Nubra Valley is usually very comfortable, with daytime temperatures between 15°C to 25°C which makes it perfect for tours and outdoor activities. For tourists who prefer to engage in more cultural activities, it is recommended to visit in February during the Dosmochey Festival when people can see how cultural rituals are performed in that region.
Other Factors To Consider
Photo: Ashwin Kumar / Wikimedia Commons
Here are some factors to consider while you plan your trip to Diskit Monastery.
Average Cost Of Trip
The cost of going to Diskit Monastery on a trip may depend on various travel-related factors such as the mode of transport used, the number of days stayed, the type of activities engaged in, and so on.
- Flights: The costs of round trips between Delhi and Leh usually vary vertical mode of transportation between ₹6000 to ₹15000.
- Accommodation: For the lowest possible tariffs possible, guesthouses or homestays are around ₹1000 to 2500 per night.
- Food: An average of 500 to 1000 rupees may be used for daily meals.
- Local Transport: Performing circular journeys by taxi in the Leh-Diskit-Leh area costs on average between 5000 to 7000 rupees.
In conclusion, for a simple three-day trip one should expect to pay between ₹20000 to ₹30000 per person.
Tips For Travellers
- Acclimatize: The average traveller should invest a day in Leh to acclimatize before moving on to Diskit.
- Dress Modestly: When visiting the monastery, bring appropriate attire – ideally, long sleeves and pants.
- Stay Hydrated: Drink lots of fluids to prevent altitude sickness.
- Be Considerate of Local Culture: Abide by the rules established by the monastery, including not interrupting prayers or taking pictures where it is prohibited.
- Visit Early: Arrive early for a peaceful visit since it is less crowded and there is good light for taking pictures.
- Carry Cash: Access to ATMs may not be available; thus, keep enough money for use.
The Diskit Monastery is one of the best representations of the culture and religion that Ladakh boasts. Its architectural beauty, peaceful location and colourful festivities attract tourists visiting this part of the world. In search of divine peace or simply attending the rich culture of the place, Diskit Monastery leaves footprints in one’s heart for a long time after the visit. Immerse yourself in the beauty and history of this interesting destination by planning your trip with TripXL.
Cover Photo: Csyogi / Wikimedia Commons
