Place to visit in Key Monastery

HIMACHAL PRADESH

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Directions

Religious

Key Monastery

0 From Key Monastery

Key Monastery, also known as Ki Gompa, is one of the largest and most famous Buddhist monasteries in Himachal Pradesh, located in the Spiti Valley at an altitude of 4,166 meters (13,668 feet) above sea level. Situated approximately 12 km from Kaza, the district headquarters of Spiti, and around 200 km from Manali, Key Monastery is a stunning example of Tibetan Buddhist architecture perched atop a hill, offering panoramic views of the Spiti River and surrounding mountains. Established in the 11th century, it serves as a spiritual hub for monks and attracts tourists for its ancient murals, sacred thangkas, and serene meditation halls. Accessible via the Manali–Kaza highway and local trekking routes, Key Monastery is a must-visit destination for travelers seeking culture, spirituality, and breathtaking Himalayan landscapes in Himachal Pradesh.

tourist attractions

Kibber Wildlife Sanctuary

4.33 From Key Monastery

Kibber Wildlife Sanctuary, Himachal Pradesh is one of the highest-altitude wildlife sanctuaries in the world, located in the Spiti Valley region of Himachal Pradesh. Spread across a vast area of approximately 1,425 sq km, it is situated near the village of Kibber, at an elevation of around 4,270 meters above sea level. This sanctuary is a paradise for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts, home to rare and endangered species such as the snow leopard, Himalayan ibex, Tibetan wolf, and blue sheep. Surrounded by rugged mountains, vast meadows, and unique cold desert landscapes, Kibber Wildlife Sanctuary offers breathtaking trekking opportunities and wildlife photography experiences. Easily accessible from key towns like Kaza and Tabo, it forms a crucial part of Himachal Pradesh’s eco-tourism circuit and is ideal for travelers seeking adventure, serenity, and a chance to witness the fragile Himalayan ecosystem up close.

village

Langza Village

7.07 From Key Monastery

Langza Village, Himachal Pradesh, is a serene and picturesque destination located in the Spiti Valley, at an altitude of approximately 4,400 meters. Famous for its ancient fossils and breathtaking Himalayan landscapes, Langza offers travelers a unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance. The village is dotted with traditional Spitian homes and monasteries, including the nearby Chau Chau Kang Nilda peak, making it a paradise for photography and trekking enthusiasts. Langza is also renowned for its tranquil atmosphere, where visitors can experience local culture, interact with friendly villagers, and witness stunning sunrise and sunset views over the rugged mountains. Ideal for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and history buffs, Langza Village is a must-visit gem in Himachal Pradesh’s Spiti region.

village

Hikkim Village

9.79 From Key Monastery

Hikkim Village, Himachal Pradesh: Nestled in the remote Spiti Valley of Himachal Pradesh, Hikkim Village is renowned for being one of the highest inhabited villages in the world, sitting at an altitude of approximately 4,400 meters. Famous for its historic Hikkim Post Office, which serves as a lifeline for the local community and attracts travelers from across the globe, the village offers a unique glimpse into traditional Himalayan life. Surrounded by breathtaking snow-capped peaks, rugged landscapes, and serene valleys, Hikkim is a must-visit destination for adventure seekers, photographers, and culture enthusiasts exploring the Spiti region. Travelers can experience authentic Spitian culture, witness ancient monasteries nearby, and enjoy the tranquil environment far from urban hustle. Hikkim Village is accessible via road from Kaza, making it a key highlight on the Himachal Pradesh travel itinerary.

Religious

Dhankar Monastery

29.88 From Key Monastery

Dhankar Monastery, perched at an altitude of 3,894 meters in the Spiti Valley of Himachal Pradesh, is a stunning example of Himalayan Buddhist architecture. This ancient monastery, also known as Dhankar Gompa, overlooks the confluence of the Spiti and Pin Rivers, offering panoramic views of the rugged valley below. Known for its 17th-century murals, sacred thangkas, and historic prayer halls, Dhankar Monastery is a spiritual and cultural treasure of the region. Easily accessible from Kaza, the Spiti district headquarters, it is a must-visit destination for travelers seeking Buddhist heritage, serene landscapes, and adventure in Himachal Pradesh. The monastery’s strategic location also provides opportunities for trekking, photography, and cultural exploration, making it one of the top attractions in the Spiti Valley.

National park

Pin Valley National Park

35.34 From Key Monastery

Pin Valley National Park, Himachal Pradesh is a hidden gem nestled in the cold desert region of Spiti Valley, in Lahaul and Spiti district. Spread over approximately 675 sq. km, this pristine national park is renowned for its unique high-altitude flora and fauna, including the endangered snow leopard, Himalayan ibex, and rare medicinal plants. Located near Kaza town, Pin Valley National Park offers breathtaking landscapes of rugged mountains, deep gorges, and the serene Pin River. Ideal for wildlife enthusiasts, trekkers, and nature photographers, the park provides an unforgettable experience of Himalayan biodiversity and adventure. The best time to visit is from May to October, when the weather is favorable, and the flora is in full bloom.

tourist attractions

Kunzum Pass

37.1 From Key Monastery

Kunzum Pass, Himachal Pradesh is a high-altitude mountain pass situated at an elevation of 4,551 meters in the Lahaul and Spiti district. Connecting the Lahaul Valley with the Spiti Valley, Kunzum Pass offers breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks, rugged terrains, and pristine landscapes, making it a paradise for adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers. Travelers often experience thrilling road trips on the challenging routes leading to the pass, especially from Manali and Kaza. Kunzum Pass is also famous for its proximity to scenic destinations such as Chandratal Lake and Kibber Village, making it an essential stop for Himachal Pradesh tourism. The pass remains accessible primarily between May and October due to heavy snowfall in winter.

Lake

Chandratal Lake

41.72 From Key Monastery

Chandratal Lake, Himachal Pradesh – Nestled in the Lahaul and Spiti district of Himachal Pradesh, Chandratal Lake, also known as the "Moon Lake," is a pristine high-altitude lake located at an elevation of approximately 4,300 meters. Surrounded by rugged mountains and the mesmerizing Himalayan landscape, this crescent-shaped lake is a paradise for nature lovers, trekkers, and photographers. The lake is accessible via the Manali–Leh Highway, making it a popular stop for adventure enthusiasts traveling through Spiti Valley. Visitors can enjoy camping near the lake, witnessing breathtaking sunrises and starry nights. Chandratal Lake is also an ideal spot for birdwatching, as it attracts migratory birds during the summer months. Its serene and untouched beauty makes Chandratal one of the most sought-after destinations in Himachal Pradesh.

Religious

Tabo Monastery

41.88 From Key Monastery

Tabo Monastery, Himachal Pradesh – Nestled in the serene Spiti Valley of Himachal Pradesh, Tabo Monastery is one of the oldest and most revered Buddhist monasteries in India, often called the "Ajanta of the Himalayas." Founded in 996 AD, it is located near the village of Tabo, approximately 45 km from Kaza, the district headquarters of Spiti. The monastery complex is renowned for its exquisite wall paintings, ancient scriptures, and 9 monasteries within its premises, reflecting over a millennium of Buddhist culture and architecture. Surrounded by rugged mountains and the scenic Spiti River, Tabo Monastery offers visitors not only spiritual solace but also a unique glimpse into Himalayan heritage. It is a must-visit destination for travelers exploring Himachal Pradesh, especially for those interested in history, art, and Buddhist traditions.