Gue Monastery

Gue Monastery

Gue Monastery, located in Gue Village at 10,499 ft (3,200 m), is one of the most fascinating places in Spiti Valley. What makes it unique is the 600-year-old naturally preserved mummy of a Buddhist monk, believed to be that of Sangha Tenzin, a Lama from the Gelugpa sect.

The mummy, discovered by the Indo-Tibetan Border Police in 1975, remains intact without any chemicals, with teeth, nails, and hair still visible. It sits in a glass case inside the monastery, drawing pilgrims, monks, and curious travellers alike.

Best Time to Visit Gue Monastery

  • May – October: Best time when roads are open and the monastery is accessible.

  • July – September: Pleasant weather, perfect for village visits.

  • November – March: Harsh winter; roads may be closed due to snow.

Why Visit Gue Monastery

  • To witness the only naturally preserved Buddhist mummy in India.

  • To explore a remote village near the Indo-Tibetan border.

  • To learn about ancient Buddhist meditation and preservation practices.

  • To enjoy peaceful Himalayan landscapes far from crowds.

Things to Do in & Around Gue

At Gue Monastery:

  • See the Mummy – The centrepiece attraction, preserved in glass.

  • Explore the Monastery – Observe murals, thangkas, and Buddhist architecture.

  • Meditation & Prayer – Spend quiet moments in the spiritual atmosphere.

  • Photography – Stunning landscapes around the village.

Nearby Attractions:

  1. Tabo Monastery (40 km) – One of the oldest functioning Buddhist monasteries in India.

  2. Dhankar Monastery (55 km) – Perched dramatically on a cliff.

  3. Nako Village (40 km) – Serene lake and ancient monastery.

  4. Kaza (80 km) – Spiti’s main town for stays and facilities.

How to Reach Gue Monastery

  • From Tabo (40 km, 1.5 hrs) – By taxi or bike, en route to Nako.

  • From Kaza (80 km, 3 hrs) – Drive via Tabo.

  • From Shimla (390 km, 2–3 days) – Via Kinnaur Valley.

  • From Manali (280 km, 2 days) – Via Kunzum Pass (open May–Oct).

Food & Facilities at Gue

  • Food – Only basic meals available in the village; better options in Tabo.

  • Stay – Limited homestays in Gue; most travellers stay in Tabo or Kaza.

  • Shops & ATMs – None; nearest at Tabo and Kaza.

  • Network – Very weak; BSNL works occasionally.

Travel Tips for Gue Visitors

  • Combine Gue with a Tabo–Nako–Dhankar circuit for a day trip.

  • Carry snacks and water – facilities are minimal.

  • Cash only – no ATMs or digital payments in the area.

  • Wear comfortable shoes – short walks are required to reach the monastery.

  • Visit in daylight hours; the area is very remote.

Responsible Travel & Local Etiquette

  • Respect the mummy – no loud noise or disrespectful behaviour.

  • No flash photography inside the monastery.

  • Support locals – buy tea or handicrafts from villagers.

  • Do not litter – carry your waste back.

Be mindful – Gue is a border village; follow security protocols.