Tabo Monastery – Himachal Pradesh

The stark and serene landscapes of Spiti Valley, Tabo Monastery stands as a beacon of spiritual heritage and ancient Buddhist art. Revered as one of the oldest functioning monasteries in the world, this sacred site is a center of meditation, learning, and cultural preservation. With its 1,000-year-old murals and the profound silence of the Himalayas, Tabo offers a deeply enriching spiritual and cultural experience to every traveler.

Temple About

Tabo Monastery is one of the oldest functioning Buddhist enclaves in India, founded in 996 AD by the Tibetan Buddhist translator Rinchen Zangpo. It is considered the "Ajanta of the Himalayas" due to its exquisite frescoes and ancient murals.

Temple Description

The monastery complex consists of 9 temples, numerous stupas, cave shrines, and monks’ quarters. The main temple, Tsug Lakhang, houses priceless Buddhist scriptures, thangkas (scroll paintings), and stucco statues. The monastery is made from mud and stone, blending naturally with the harsh desert terrain of Spiti Valley.

Temple Specialty

Over 1,000 years old, with uninterrupted Buddhist worship.

Ancient murals and frescoes, considered invaluable Buddhist art.

UNESCO World Heritage Site (tentative list).

Visited by the 14th Dalai Lama, who declared it one of the holiest places.

Temple Address

Tabo Monastery, Tabo Village, Spiti Valley, Lahaul and Spiti District, Himachal Pradesh - 172113, India

Temple Location (Longitude and Latitude)

32.0957° N, 78.3819° E

Temple Timings

Daily: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Temple Sevas

Daily Buddhist prayers

Special rituals during full moon and Buddhist festivals

Teachings and meditation sessions by senior monks (seasonal)

Traveling Facilities

Buses and taxis available from nearby towns like Kaza and Reckong Peo

Roads remain open mainly between May to October

4x4 vehicles recommended due to rough terrain

Food Facilities

Small eateries and Tibetan dhabas in Tabo village

Vegetarian food commonly available

Tea and momos widely served

Stay Facilities

Budget guesthouses and homestays in Tabo

Monastery guesthouse available with prior booking

Limited but clean and comfortable lodging options

Nearby Railway Station

Shimla Railway Station – ~420 km away

Nearby Airport

Bhuntar Airport (Kullu–Manali Airport) – ~380 km away

Nearby Bus Station

Kaza Bus Stand – ~50 km away

Direct buses also run from Reckong Peo during season

Bus Routes to Temple

From Reckong Peo to Tabo via NH505

HRTC buses operate seasonal services

Route: Shimla → Reckong Peo → Nako → Tabo

Train Routes to Temple

Train to Shimla, then by road via Reckong Peo

No direct railway access to Spiti Valley

Air Ways to Temple

Fly to Bhuntar (Kullu)

Hire cab or take bus to Reckong Peo → Tabo

Helicopter services may be available during emergencies or special government provision

Nearby Cities to Temple

Kaza (50 km)

Reckong Peo (150 km)

Shimla (420 km)

Nearby Visiting Temples and Other Places

Dhankar Monastery – 32 km

Key Monastery – 70 km

Pin Valley National Park – 60 km

Giu Mummy Village – 22 km (home to 500-year-old mummified monk)

Preferable Visiting Season

May to October – roads are clear, weather is favorable. Avoid winter (Nov–April) due to heavy snow and road closures.

Shopping Famous For?

Thangka paintings

Handmade Tibetan handicrafts

Woolen clothes and shawls

Prayer flags and beads

Tabo Monastery is not just a religious destination but a timeless archive of Buddhist philosophy, Himalayan art, and monastic life. Whether you're a spiritual seeker, a history lover, or a peace traveler, Tabo offers a unique blend of sacredness and solitude. A visit to this ancient monastery is a journey into the soul of the Himalayas and the living legacy of Tibetan Buddhism.