Tabo

Tabo

Tabo Monastery, located at 3,280 meters (10,760 ft) in Tabo Village, is one of the oldest continuously functioning Buddhist monasteries in India. Founded in 996 AD by the great translator Rinchen Zangpo, it is often called the Ajanta of the Himalayas due to its priceless murals, paintings, and stucco sculptures.

The monastery complex includes nine temples, caves carved into cliffs, and 23 chortens, making it a living museum of Tibetan Buddhism. It belongs to the Gelugpa (Yellow Hat) sect and continues to be a centre of Buddhist learning, attracting scholars, monks, and spiritual seekers from around the world.

Best Time to Visit Tabo Monastery

  • May – October: Pleasant weather, roads open.

  • July – August: Ideal for attending monastery festivals.

  • November – March: Icy, but the monastery remains open (road access uncertain).

Why Visit Tabo Monastery

  • To explore one of the oldest Buddhist monasteries in the world.

  • To admire ancient murals and wall paintings that narrate Buddhist tales.

  • To meditate in cave shrines carved into the surrounding cliffs.

  • To experience a UNESCO heritage site (tentative list).

  • To witness vibrant monk festivals and rituals.

Things to Do in & Around Tabo

At Tabo Monastery:

  • Visit the Assembly Hall (Dukhang) – Admire ancient murals.

  • Explore Meditation Caves – Located in the cliffs above the monastery.

  • Attend Prayer Ceremonies – Hear chants and Tibetan instruments.

  • Study the Museum – Learn about scriptures and Buddhist art.

  • Photography – Beautiful architecture with the backdrop of barren mountains.

Nearby Attractions:

  1. Gue Monastery (40 km) – Famous for the naturally preserved mummy.

  2. Dhankar Monastery (32 km) – Perched dramatically on a cliff above the Spiti & Pin rivers.

  3. Pin Valley (40 km) – A national park known for snow leopards and wildlife.

  4. Kaza (47 km) – The hub of Spiti Valley.

  5. Nako Village (60 km) – Known for its lake and monastery.

How to Reach Tabo Monastery

  • From Kaza (47 km, 1.5 hrs) – By taxi, shared cab, or bike.

  • From Shimla (365 km, 2 days) – Via Kinnaur Valley.

  • From Manali (260 km, 2 days) – Via Kunzum Pass & Kaza (May–Oct).

Food & Facilities at Tabo

  • Food – Guesthouses and local cafes serve Tibetan and Indian meals.

  • Stay – Monastery guesthouse, homestays, and hotels available.

  • Shops & ATMs – Small shops in Tabo; ATMs in Kaza.

  • Network – Weak, but BSNL works in some areas.

Travel Tips for Tabo Visitors

  • Spend at least half a day exploring the monastery complex fully.

  • Carry cash – ATMs are limited in Spiti.

  • Avoid flash photography – it can damage murals.

  • Stay overnight in Tabo to enjoy the sunset and stargazing.

  • Wear warm clothes – evenings are chilly even in summer.

Responsible Travel & Local Etiquette

  • Respect monastery rules – remove shoes before entering halls.

  • No photography inside temples without permission.

  • Maintain silence during prayer sessions.

  • Support local communities – stay in homestays and purchase local crafts.

  • Carry back your waste – protect the fragile Himalayan environment.