Diskit Monastery Guide
Guardians of the Valley: Explore the Ancient Diskit Monastery Guide
Perched atop a hill overlooking the Nubra Valley, Diskit Monastery is a prominent landmark and a significant Buddhist center in Ladakh. This ancient monastery offers breathtaking panoramic views of the valley and the surrounding mountains. Its serene atmosphere and rich history make it a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Nubra Valley. Founded in the 14th century by Changzem Tserab Zangpo, a disciple of Tsongkhapa (the founder of the Gelugpa school of Tibetan Buddhism), Diskit Monastery is the oldest and largest Buddhist monastery in the Nubra Valley. It belongs to the Gelugpa (Yellow Hat) sect of Tibetan Buddhism. Over the centuries, the monastery has played a vital role in preserving Buddhist culture and traditions in the region. The Maitreya Buddha statue, inaugurated in 2010, is a major attraction. Visitors can explore the monastery's various prayer halls and temples, admiring the intricate murals, thangkas (Tibetan Buddhist paintings), and statues of Buddhist deities. The highlight is the giant Maitreya Buddha statue facing down the Shyok River towards Pakistan, symbolizing peace and protection. You can also climb to the top of the monastery for stunning views of the valley. The monastery museum houses a collection of ancient artifacts and religious objects. While Diskit doesn't have a unique culinary tradition, you can find local restaurants serving traditional Ladakhi dishes.
Transportation
Diskit Monastery is easily accessible by road. It's located in the village of Diskit, which is the administrative center of Nubra Valley. Shared taxis and private cars are readily available from Leh. You can also hire a motorcycle for a more independent journey. Local buses also operate between Leh and Diskit, though they may have limited schedules. Once in Diskit, the monastery is a short walk or taxi ride from the main town.