Tabo Monastery
Human-reviewedTabo, Spiti, Lahaul & Spiti, Himachal Pradesh
- Founded
- 996 CE
- Altitude
- ~3,280 m
- Known for
- Early murals and stucco figures
- Protected by
- Archaeological Survey of India
- Time needed
- 1–2 hours
About
Tabo Monastery stands on the floor of the Spiti valley at about 3,280 m. Its mud-brick temples, begun in 996 CE, hold murals and clay sculptures from several centuries that are important to the study of Indo-Tibetan Buddhist art, which is why it is sometimes called the 'Ajanta of the Himalayas'. The old complex is protected by the Archaeological Survey of India; a newer monastery and guesthouses stand alongside, and caves used by monks dot the cliff above the village.
How to reach
- Tabo is on the Spiti road between Reckong Peo (Kinnaur) and Kaza, ~45 km from Kaza.
- Approach from Shimla–Kinnaur (longer season) or from Manali via Kunzum (summer only).
- Buses and shared taxis run through Tabo along the Kaza route.
Best time to visit
May to October for road access. The Kinnaur approach stays open longest; winters are severe.
Things to know
- Photography is not allowed inside the old temples, to protect the paintings.
- The interiors are dark — visit in daylight and move slowly to let your eyes adjust.
- Simple rooms are available at the monastery guesthouse and in the village.
FAQ
How old is Tabo Monastery?
Its founding is dated to 996 CE, making it one of the oldest Buddhist monasteries still in use in the Indian Himalaya.
Why can't you photograph inside Tabo Monastery?
The old temples contain fragile 10th–17th century murals and clay sculptures; flash and heavy visitor traffic damage them, so interior photography is barred.
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Location
Nearby
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