Tabo Monastery: The Ajanta of the Himalayas
Explore the ancient Tabo Monastery in Spiti Valley, a living testament to Indo-Tibetan Buddhist art, culture, and heritage for over a thousand years.
Founded in 996 AD by the Tibetan Buddhist Lotsawa Rinchen Zangpo, Tabo Monastery is the oldest continuously operating Buddhist enclave in India and the Himalayas. Known as the 'Ajanta of the Himalayas' for its exquisite Indo-Tibetan Buddhist art, murals, and frescoes, it's a treasure trove of Buddhist history and culture.
A brief summary to Tabo Monastery
- 39VM+C56, Tabo, Dhar Gangchhumi, Himachal Pradesh, 172113, IN
- +919418963082
- Visit website
- Monday 6 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 6 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 6 am-5 pm
- Thursday 6 am-5 pm
- Friday 6 am-5 pm
- Saturday 6 am-5 pm
- Sunday 6 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Photography is generally restricted inside the temples to preserve the delicate murals and artwork.
- Maintain silence within the monastery premises to respect the spiritual atmosphere and the monks' practices.
- Dress modestly when visiting the monastery, avoiding revealing clothing.
- Acclimatize properly to the high altitude to avoid mountain sickness.
- Carry sufficient cash, as ATMs are not readily available in Tabo.
Getting There
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Road
Tabo Monastery is accessible by road from both Shimla and Manali. The Manali route is typically open from June to October, while the Shimla route may be open for a longer duration. From Kaza, Tabo is approximately 50 km away, a 1.5 to 2-hour drive. Taxis and local buses are available for this final leg. Be aware that roads can be rough, so a sturdy vehicle is recommended. Bus fares from Kaza to Tabo are approximately INR 150-200. Taxi fares range from INR 2000-3000.
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Public Transport
If arriving by public transport, take a bus from Reckong Peo towards Kaza; this bus typically starts at 6:30 AM. Get off at Tabo. From Kaza, occasional buses to Tabo are available. Alternatively, shared taxis can be found. Bus fares from Reckong Peo to Tabo are approximately INR 300-400. The local bus from Kaza to Tabo will cost around INR 150-200.
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