The Sakya Tangyud Monastery is a Tibetan Buddhist monastery located in Kaza in the Spiti Valley of Himachal Pradesh, India. It is one of the highest altitude gompas (monasteries) in India, situated on the edge of a deep canyon and overlooking the town of Kaza. It belongs to the Sakya sect of Tibetan Buddhism and houses a community of monks who engage in daily religious practices, education, and cultural preservation.
Sakya Tangyud Monastery can be reached by road via Kaza, which is the sub-divisional headquarters of Spiti Valley. The nearest airport is in Bhuntar, near Kullu, and the nearest broad gauge railway station is at Shimla. From these points, you can hire taxis or use local buses to reach Kaza. The roads leading to Spiti Valley are often narrow and treacherous, and they remain closed during the winter months due to heavy snowfall, so it's advisable to visit during the summer and autumn months.
The best time to visit the Sakya Tangyud Monastery is from June to September when the roads are clear and the weather is relatively warm. This is the period when Spiti Valley is most accessible to tourists. Winters are extremely harsh, with heavy snowfall cutting off road connectivity, making it challenging to visit during this time.
The main attractions of the monastery include its stunning murals and paintings depicting various aspects of Buddhist mythology, a vast collection of scriptures and texts, and the annual Cham Dance festival showcasing masked dances performed by the monks. The architecture of the monastery, with its fortified walls and unique design, also draws visitors. Moreover, its location offers breath-taking views of the Spiti Valley landscape.
Yes, the Sakya Tangyud Monastery celebrates the annual Cham Dance festival, usually held in late July or early August. This festival involves masked dances performed by the monks to the sound of traditional music. The dances are a form of meditation and serve as a teaching tool conveying moral lessons. This festival attracts tourists and photographers from around the world.
Entrance fees, if any, are nominal and subject to change. It's best to check with local authorities or tourism offices for the latest information before visiting, as policies may vary.
Typically, monasteries offer limited accommodations for guests. It's best to inquire directly with the monastery or arrange for accommodation in Kaza, where there are more options available, including hotels and guesthouses catering to a range of budgets.
Visitors should be respectful of the religious and cultural practices taking place at the monastery. It is advisable to dress modestly, avoid loud noises, and seek permission before taking photographs. Tourists should also be aware of the monastery's schedule and visiting hours, as these may vary.
Yes, when interacting with monks, it's important to greet them respectfully and wait for them to offer their hand if they wish to shake hands. It's polite to avoid touching religious artifacts or entering restricted areas without permission. Conversations should be held with respect and sensitivity to their religious commitments and lifestyle.
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