Lahaul’s Ultimate Adventure: Embark on 1 Day Hike to Guru Ghantal Monastery

About this tour

Guru Ghantal Monastery, also known as the Guru Ghantal Gompa, is the Oldest Buddhist monastery located in the Lahaul and Spiti district of Himachal Pradesh, India. This monastery is situated on a hill above Tupchiling Monastery near Tandi Bridge at the confluence of the Chandra and Bhaga rivers. This 10th or 12th Century gompa is the oldest monastery in Lahaul and it lies close to the sacred Drilbu Ri Mountain.

In the old times, it was sacred to both Hindus and Buddhists. The hike to Guru Ghantal Gompa starts from Tupchiling Gompa, which is just a few minutes walk from the Tandi Bridge. It can be said to be a strenuous uphill climb of around 3 or 4 hours. Tupchiling Gompa is a small monastery and is a branch of Guru Ghantal Gompa.

Brief Overview of Guru Ghantal Monastery in Lahaul:

• Location: Guru Ghantal Monastery is situated in the Lahaul valley, near the village of Tupchiling, about 3 km from the town of Keylong.
• History: The monastery is believed to be one of the oldest monasteries in Lahaul, dating back to the 8th century. It has an ancient wooden structure and is dedicated to Padmasambhava, an important figure in Tibetan Buddhism.
• Architecture: The unique architecture of Guru Ghantal Monastery features a wooden pagoda-style structure with beautiful carvings and murals. The main prayer hall contains a statue of Padmasambhava and various ancient artifacts.
• Spiritual Practices and Meditation: Guru Ghantal Monastery serves as a hub for spiritual practices, meditation, and religious rituals. Monks and practitioners gather here to engage in meditation, prayers, and rituals that align with the teachings of Padmasambhava. The serene and tranquil surroundings make it an ideal place for introspection and spiritual growth.
• Preservation of Buddhist Culture and Traditions: The monastery plays a pivotal role in preserving Buddhist culture and traditions, including rituals, dances, and scriptures. It’s a center for passing down spiritual knowledge and practices from one generation to another, contributing to the continuation of Buddhist heritage in the region.
• Festival Celebrations: Like many Buddhist monasteries, Guru Ghantal Gompa celebrates various festivals and religious events with fervor. These festivals, often accompanied by colorful masked dances and religious ceremonies, are significant for the local Buddhist community and attract pilgrims and visitors seeking spiritual experiences.
• Pilgrimage Destination: For Buddhists, visiting Guru Ghantal Monastery is considered a pilgrimage that holds deep spiritual meaning. Pilgrims visit to pay homage, seek blessings, and deepen their faith through prayers and offerings.
• Connection with the Lineage of Monastic Tradition: Guru Ghantal Gompa is a part of the larger monastic tradition, and it maintains a connection with other monasteries and spiritual leaders. This connectivity further enhances its religious importance within the Buddhist community.

The guided taxi tour is perfect for those who want to explore the monasteries at a relaxed pace and learn about the culture and history of the region from an experienced guide and offers visitors a chance to experience the beauty and tranquility of the lahaul region.

Itinerary for Visiting Guru Ghantal Monastery :

1. Have an early breakfast at some good  restaurant in Keylong and then we will drive to Tupchiling Monastery which is about 3 km from Keylong.
2. Spend some time in Tupchiling Monastery.
3. Start our hike to Guru Ghantal Gompa from Tupchiling Monastery which will be about 1 hour strenuous hike.
4. Spend time meditating or simply enjoying the peaceful surroundings, enjoy the rich history and religious significance.
5. Return to Keylong.

Guru Ghantal Gompa is not only an usual Monastery in picturesque view but also a sacred place deeply embedded in the Buddhist faith, preserving the essence of Buddhism and providing a spiritual sanctuary for devotees and practitioners.