Himachal Pradesh
A trek to Spiti

Dhankar village and monastery overlooking the confluence of the Pin and the Spiti. Not long ago the village was the seat of the ruler of Spiti. Dhankar was a seat of learning and home to precious relics and was, along with other monasteries in the region, subjected to depredations even as late as the 19th century.
Photo: DEB MUKHARJI

The Tabo monastery in Spiti is among the most revered in the Buddhist world. Built in the 10th century when Spiti was a part of the kingdom of Guge in Tibet, Tabo was a great centre of learning. Described as Spiti's pride, Tabo has one of the most significant art treasures in the Buddhist world, its vibrant frescoes likened to those in Ajanta. The Dalai Lama has performed the Kalachakra ceremony twice at Tabo. Here, a view of the original monastery built of mud.
Photo: DEB MUKHARJI

Kibber village at over 14,000 feet (4,267 metres) had the distinction of having the highest post office in the world until recently when it was overtaken by a neighbouring village. Kibber has a variety of wildlife and is on the difficult trekking route to Ladakh, leading to Tso Muriri.
Photo: DEB MUKHARJI

At Langja, over 14,000 feet (4,267 m) and among the highest villages anywhere, a rooftop stocked with fodder for cattle for the winter and spring. Langja, situated high over the left bank of the Spiti, has a population of just over 100 and a variety of wildlife, including the Himalayan ibex and the snow leopard.
Photo: DEB MUKHARJI

The Gutor festival in autumn is the year’s highlight in the life of the monastery and nearby villages. Celebrated with great pageantry, the day-long festivities aim at casting away evil spirits. Women from Tabo and nearby villages join in a dance. The festival is not confined to monks and there are traditional group dances by men, women and children.
Photo: DEB MUKHARJI
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