Spituk monastery is one of the spectacular monasteries in Northern India. The monastery is located on the hilltop near the Indus River and shares a distance of 18 km from the main city of Leh on Srinagar road. The very monastery comes with a jaw-dropping scenic beauty of nature. Tourist explores this place not only for the monastery but also to cherish the commanding view of Indus River. The monastery comes with a new Gompa within the monastery meanwhile the old one has been restored. It is structured in a series of tiers with steps and courtyard. There is a chamber at the higher up in the hill that features anenormous statue of the goddess. The face of the deity is uncovered and again covered only during the local festival period.
The spituk monastery was established by Od De, the elder brother of La Lama Changchub-Od in the 11th century. Before King Gragspa Bumide converted the Gompa into Gayluk Pa Order it used to run according to the Kadampa School. Tourists around the world come here to explore the several icons of Lord Buddha along with 5 thangkas at this 15th century Spituk monastery.
If you are at Spituk the whole monastery is a wonderful attraction for the tourists across the globe. Inside the monastery, travelers experience the huge throne of Dalai Lama. Else you will also come to see an old chapel featuring images of Buddha, TsongKha pa along with his two disciples behind the throne. The Spituk monastery is a home of 100 monks. This sacred monastery is considered as a must visit monastery for the Buddha devotees and history buffs. If you step inside the monastery you will encounter plenty of statues and images of Lord Buddha. There is also a holy idol of Amitayus. The assembly of the monastery features ample collections of thangkas which is nothing but a painting on silk or cotton depicting Lord Buddha. Else antique arms and masks are also can be seen.
You must not forget visiting the assembly hall of this monastery as it is the largest area of the temple featuring two rows of seats that ends up to the throne at the far end of the hall. Miniature and sculpture chortens are displayed for the tourists.
You must not miss the local festival of Spituk village. The Spituk monastery celebrates Gustor festival each year. The festival involves dance, music, prayer, cultural art exhibitions by local people and traditional dance. All the villagers attend the festival to receive the grace of Lord Buddha before the New Year enters. Else you can also enjoy the colourful Cham dance at Spituk village. Try to attend these festivals and avoid visiting this monastery from November to May. As during these months, the roads remain closed due to heavy rainfall.
