Have you ever dreamed of being on a quiet mountain slope, and the sky is so near that you can almost touch it? That is exactly what it feels like when visiting the Key Monastery in Spiti Valley. Surrounded by big brown mountains and cool, gentle winds, this old monastery is like a doorway to a calmer world. Numerous travellers visit it through a wide range of Spiti Valley tour packages, and the moment they see it from far away, they fall in love with it. In this blog, we will try to provide you with everything you need to know before visiting this peaceful and powerful place.
Key Monastery in the Spiti Valley is believed to be over a thousand years old. It was constructed in the 11th century and has weathered wars, earthquakes and rough weather. That is why its structure resembles a fort. The monastery follows the Gelugpa school of Tibetan Buddhism and is home to hundreds of monks who live a life dedicated to learning, praying and teaching.
Inside the monastery, you will find beautiful paintings, ancient scrolls, and prayer rooms filled with the gentle aroma of butter lamps. Visitors exploring Spiti through a Winter Spiti package often describe the silence within the monastery as "healing."
Location: 14 km from Kaza
Height: Around 4,166 meters
Entry Fees: Free for all
Key Monastery is a whole different place in itself. If you are visiting Spiti Valley, then you cannot miss visiting this marvelous gem. The following are the 5 best things to do at Key Monastery.
The most serene section in Key Monastery is its prayer hall. You will see tall statues, old books, and colourful paintings depicting stories from Buddhist culture. When the monks come together for prayers, the sound of drums and horns fills the room with an experience that will stay with you forever.
Things to Do: Attend the morning prayers and see the rituals of the monks.
Timings: 6 AM to 6 PM
Fees: No charge
One of the greatest things to do here is to talk to the monks. They lead a simple life full of discipline and meditation. Many visitors have said that the conversations they had here changed the way they think about life. The monks are friendly, hospitable and always willing to tell stories.
Things to Do: Learn about Buddhism and ask some questions.
Timings: Best between 10 AM to 4 PM
Fees: Free
Climb a bit behind the monastery and you will have a viewpoint across the whole Spiti Valley. This is one of the most photographed places in the region. The long Spiti River shines in the sun, tiny villages are in the distance, and the monastery sits proudly; everything looks like a painting.
Things to Do: Taking pictures and Meditation
Timings: Sunrise or sunset
Fees: Free
The monastery also has a small museum which displays ancient masks, weapons, texts, and objects used by the monks in the past. Every object has a story, and the place gives you an idea of how people lived centuries ago in Spiti.
Things To Do: Get knowledge about historical objects
Timings: 9 AM to 5 PM
Fees: Sometimes ₹20
If you come here in June or July, you might witness the annual festival of the Chaam dance. Monks wear masks and perform ritual dances that symbolise the victory of good over evil. It is colourful, energetic and full of meaning.
Things to Do: Watch festivals and cultural performances.
Timings: Once a year
Fees: Free
The best months to visit the Key Monastery in Spiti Valley are between May and October. The weather is pleasant and the roads are open, so during this period it is easy to travel. Most visitors visit these months.
If you love snow, then winter is also a good option. It might be a little difficult. Roads may remain blocked, and the temperature may fall to -20 degrees Celsius. Mostly, only experienced travellers go in winter. There are a lots of Spiti packages which people prefer, as they involve guidance, safety, and transportation.
It takes patience to get to the Key Monastery, but it is part of the adventure.
Manali Route: Manali-Rohtang pass-Gramphu-Kunzum pass-Kaza-Key
Best Time: June to September
From Shimla: Shimla-Rampur-Reckong Peo-Nako-Tabo-Kaza-Key.
Best Time: May to October
Kaza is the nearest town. From Kaza, there are taxis and buses to the monastery.
Follow the given tips so that you can enjoy the trip without any hassles.
Carrying warm clothes in summer as well.
Walk slowly, as the altitude will cause you to lose your breath.
Respect monks and be low on noise.
Don't take photographs in the prayer rooms without permission
Drink lots of water in order to avoid altitude sickness.
A visit to the Key Monastery in Spiti Valley makes one feel as though one is in another world. The silence says something; the mountains protect you, and it is simply magical. Whatever your reason for visiting, the views, the culture or the peace, this place lives in your heart long after you've left. If you are planning a trip to the Spiti, make sure that this ancient wonder is at the top of your list.
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