Diskit Monastery is situated in the Nubra Valley of Ladakh and is home to a massive statue of Buddha. This famous Monastery is also known as Diskit Gompa, and this Buddhist center is one of the oldest and largest monasteries in Leh Ladakh.
Jangsem Sherap Zangpo founded the Diskit Monastery in the 14th century. At present, it stands atop a hill above the plains of the Shyok River. The prime attraction of the Diskit Ladakh Monastery is the 106-foot-high Maitreya Buddha statue, inaugurated by the Dalai Lama. One can view the Nubra Valley from the top of the Diskit Monastery Ladakh, where the divine figure is settled.
Besides the Buddha statue, other attractions in the Diskit Monastery are the ancient murals and frescoes. To see the Monastery blossoming to its zenith, one must visit Diskit Gompa during December and January. The renowned Dosmoche festival is celebrated in the courtyards of the Diskit monastery during this time.
Everything You Need to Know Before Visiting Diskit Monastery
History of Diskit Monastery
The pages of Diskit Monastery history will take you back to the 14th century when it got into existence by Changzem Tserab Zangpo, a disciple of Tsong Khopa. Moreover, he was the founder of the Gelugpa sect in the area. Hence, the monastery belongs to the Gelugpa Sect of Tibetan Buddhism. After that, the Diskit Monastery was under Tshe-dbang-rnam -rgyal till the 17th century.
Architecture of Diskit Monastery
The monastery of Nubra Valley is located at an altitude of 3,144 m, with impressive architecture. This monastery is home to a massive statue of Maitreya Buddha, one of the main attractions of this monastery.
You will find here the rocky steps that will lead you toward the central prayer Hall, where you will find that statute. Moreover, there are images of fierce guardian deities and huge drums, which enhance the beauty of this monastery. Apart from it, you will also find Tibetan and Mongolian texts and water paintings inside this monastery.
Tourist Attractions Near Diskit Monastery
There are various things that you can see and experience around this monastery. Whether you are a thrill lover or looking for a peaceful vibe, you will find this monastery.
Diskit Village
Diskit Village is one of the prime attractions of Ladakh, where you can explore the local culture closely. Apart from enjoying the village tour, you can take a ride on a double-bumped Bactrian camel. You can enjoy the scenic landscape, beautiful desert, and starry nightlife here.
Nubra River
The river is a tributary of the Shyok River and flows parallel to the Indus River. It is settled on the Northern Side of the Ladakh Range and is counted as one of the most beautiful attractions of this region. Around this river, lush vegetation makes Nubra Valley popular as the Orchard of Ladakh.
Hunder Village
Hunder Village is another tourist place in Nubra Valley that you should visit while planning your Ladakh tour. This village is settled around 8 km from Diskit. You can also enjoy camel rides, stargazing, charming hamlets, and cultural insight here.
Best Time to Visit Diskit Monastery
The best time to plan your visit to Diskit Monastery is May to September.
During this time, you can experience the pleasant weather in Ladakh and cover the major tourist attractions near this monastery. These months are favorable for enjoying sightseeing in Ladakh. And if you are ok with freezing winter, you can plan your tour here between January and February to attend Dosmoche Festival in Diskit. This is one of the famous festivals in Ladakhk that is dedicated to scapegoats and celebrated with zeal and glory.
How to Reach Diskit Monastery
The monastery is located approximately 2.5 km away from the Diskit Village. You can reach there by walking for a 35-minute walk or a 10-minute drive by car and bike. Apart from it, you can reach there by taking public buses from Leh and Sumur. However, there is a taxi service available in this region.
Road Condition to Reach Diskit Monastery
The road condition between Leh to Diskit is good enough for an enjoyable road trip. However, you should prefer higher ground clearance vehicles. SUVs are the ideal choice to enjoy your Leh to Nubra Valley. While enjoying the road trip, you will cross the high passes of Khardung La and then visit the Diskit Monastery.
Traveling Tips for Diskit Monastery
- You must know that photography inside the hall and the museum of this monastery is not allowed.
- Before taking a picture of any monk, you must ask them and maintain decorum throughout your visit to this monastery.
- It is highly advised not to touch any statue or any other asses inside the monastery.
- It is advised to consult your doctor or be fully fit before planning your Nubra Valley trip to avoid mountain sickness.
- You must take a rest after reaching Leh to get yourself acclimatized properly.
- There is a petrol pump in Diskit that is fully functional, and you can rely on it even in winter.
Diskit Monastery is one of the famous monasteries in Ladakh that surely deserves a place in every kind of Ladakh tour. You can also indulge in thrill through our Ladakh tour packages. Contact us for more information about Diskit Monastery and learn how to plan a holiday in this beautiful country region with our travel experts.
