Dhankar

Dhankar

Dhankar Monastery, perched dramatically at 3,894 meters (12,774 ft), is one of the most spectacular monasteries in Spiti Valley. It is located in Dhankar Village, about 32 km from Kaza, at the confluence of the Spiti and Pin Rivers.

The word Dhankar means “fort on a cliff”, and true to its name, the monastery is built on a precarious rocky outcrop overlooking the valley. Once the capital of Spiti and the residence of the Spiti King, Dhankar Monastery is now a heritage site of Tibetan Buddhism, belonging to the Gelugpa sect.

The complex includes the Old Monastery (now fragile), the New Monastery, and nearby Dhankar Lake, a hidden high-altitude lake reached via a short trek.

Best Time to Visit Dhankar

  • May – October: Best time when roads are open and weather is pleasant.

  • July – September: Great for visiting Dhankar Lake and monastery life.

  • November – March: Extremely cold, snowbound, and often inaccessible.

Why Visit Dhankar

  • To see one of the world’s most dramatically located monasteries.

  • To explore Spiti’s former capital and royal residence.

  • To trek to Dhankar Lake (4,270 m), a turquoise jewel hidden in the mountains.

  • To enjoy breathtaking views of the Spiti–Pin river confluence.

  • To experience Spitian culture and homestay hospitality.

Things to Do in & Around Dhankar

In Dhankar:

  • Visit the Old Monastery – Explore murals, scriptures, and centuries-old chambers (fragile, entry often limited).

  • Explore the New Monastery – Active prayer halls, Buddhist teachings, and festivals.

  • Photography – Capture the monastery against the backdrop of canyons and valleys.

  • Village Walks – Discover traditional mud houses and meet locals.

Around Dhankar:

  1. Dhankar Lake (5 km trek, 1.5 hrs one way) – A stunning alpine lake above the village.

  2. Pin Valley (10 km) – Wildlife-rich valley known as Land of Snow Leopards.

  3. Tabo Monastery (32 km) – Ajanta of the Himalayas.

  4. Kaza (32 km) – Spiti’s main town for shops and stays.

  5. Lalung (20 km) – Famous for Serkhang (Golden Temple) Monastery.

How to Reach Dhankar

  • From Kaza (32 km, 1 hr) – By taxi, bike, or bus.

  • From Tabo (32 km, 1 hr) – Scenic drive along Spiti River.

  • From Shimla (420 km, 2–3 days) – Via Kinnaur and Tabo.

  • From Manali (240 km, 2 days) – Via Kunzum Pass & Kaza (open May–Oct).

Nearest hub: Kaza (32 km).

Food & Facilities at Dhankar

  • Food – Local homestays serve dal, rice, thukpa, momos, and butter tea.

  • Stay – Guesthouses and homestays available in Dhankar; monastery may provide basic lodging.

  • Shops & ATMs – Minimal; nearest in Kaza and Tabo.

  • Network – Weak; BSNL works occasionally.

Travel Tips for Dhankar Visitors

  • Carry warm clothes – evenings are cold, even in summer.

  • Trek to Dhankar Lake early in the morning for the best views.

  • Carry cash – no ATMs in the village.

  • Acclimatize in Kaza before attempting the lake trek (high altitude).

  • Visit both the Old & New Monasteries to understand history and present life.

Responsible Travel & Local Etiquette

  • Respect the monastery – remove shoes, avoid flash photography inside.

  • Don’t litter – especially near Dhankar Lake (sacred to locals).

  • Stay in homestays – support local families.

  • Respect wildlife – the area is part of Pin Valley’s eco-zone.

  • Keep noise levels low – Dhankar is a spiritual and peaceful site.