Located in a small quiet village is one of the oldest monasteries in the region that was built in the year 996 and is one of the most popular tourist attractions of the area. Tabo monastery is also called “Ajanta of Himalayas”. Located at an altitude of 10760 feet (3280 meters) it is one of the largest complexes in Spiti and comprises of 23 chortens 9 temples, a monk’s chamber and a nun’s chamber. From the monastery you can see a cluster of caves that are believed to have been used by the monks for months meditation and solitary confinement. The main temple is an assembly hall where the monks used to pray together. The wall paintings inside the monastery are amazing and tell stories of Buddha. No photography is allowed inside the mail hall. Kalchakara was celebrated at Tabo Monastery which was attended by thousands of Buddhist devotees from around the world and Dalai Lama also graced the occasion.
The temple complex of Tabo monastery is declared national treasure of India and is looked after by the Archaeological Survey of India. Visitors can stay inside the Tabo Monastery and experience the day to day life in the monastery. Dormitory accommodation is available at very reasonable price, though there is very limited accommodation available. Budget hotels and homes stays are also available for tourists. Best time to visit Tabo is from May to October.
