Diskit Monastery

Diskit Monastery

Diskit Monastery, also known as Diskit Gompa, is one of the most iconic spiritual landmarks of Ladakh. Perched on a hill above the picturesque Diskit village in Nubra Valley, this 14th-century monastery is the oldest and most prominent in the region. With its stunning Himalayan views, ancient Buddhist heritage, and the towering 106-foot Maitreya Buddha statue, Diskit Monastery attracts travellers seeking serenity, culture, and breathtaking landscapes.

Why Visit Diskit Monastery?

  • Ancient Heritage:
     Diskit Monastery belongs to the Gelugpa (Yellow Hat) order of Tibetan Buddhism and boasts a rich history spanning centuries. The old prayer halls, scriptures, murals and monk residences offer a deep dive into Ladakh’s monastic culture.

  • Majestic Maitreya Buddha Statue:
     The monastery is home to a 106-foot-tall statue of the Future Buddha, facing the Shyok River and the Pakistan border. The viewpoint here offers panoramic vistas of Nubra Valley’s dunes, rivers, and mountains.

  • Mind-Calming Experience:
    The ambience at Diskit Gompa is peaceful, perfect for meditation, photography, or just stepping away from the rush of everyday life.

  • Famous Dosmoche Festival:
     Held in February, this festival is known for its masked cham dances performed by monks. It is one of Nubra’s most vibrant cultural experiences.

Best Time to Visit Diskit Monastery

The perfect time to visit Diskit Monastery is:

May to September (Peak Season)

  • Pleasant weather

  • Clear roads from Leh to Nubra

  • Best for photography and sightseeing

  • Nubra Valley’s dunes and villages are fully accessible

October to April (Winter Season)

  • Ideal for travellers looking for snow landscapes

  • Monastery remains open, but roads may get icy

  • Fewer tourists, more peaceful

  • Dosmoche Festival happens in February

For most travellers, May–September is the best time to visit. For a cultural winter experience, February is perfect.

How to Reach Diskit Monastery

Diskit is located about 115 km from Leh, accessible via the iconic Khardung La Pass. Most travellers visit it as part of a Leh–Nubra–Turtuk tour. Shared taxis, rented bikes, or private cabs are commonly used.

Nearby Places to Visit Around Diskit Monastery

  • Hunder Sand Dunes

Just 10 km away, the dunes of Hunder are known for Bactrian camel rides and sunset views.

  • Hunder Village

A peaceful Himalayan village with beautiful homestays, farms, and Nubra’s warm hospitality.

  • Turtuk Village

A stunning Balti village located close to the India–Pakistan border, known for apricot orchards and a unique culture.

  • Panamik Hot Springs

Famous for natural hot sulphur springs, believed to have healing properties.

  • Khardung La Pass

One of the world’s highest motorable passes, offering jaw-dropping valley views.


Things to Do at Diskit Monastery

  • Offer prayers and explore the prayer halls

  • Attend the morning prayer ceremony

  • Visit the Maitreya Buddha viewpoint

  • Explore Nubra Valley villages.

  • Capture sunset shots from the monastery top

  • Visit the monastery museum and library