Founded in the 14th century by Changzem Tserab Zangpo, a disciple of Tsong Khapa (the founder of the Gelugpa sect). The colossal Maitreya Buddha statue was consecrated by H.H. the Dalai Lama in 2010 to promote world peace and protect the village.
Sacred Heritage
Diskit Monastery
Diskit (Nubra Valley), Ladakh
State:Ladakh
District:Diskit (Nubra Valley)
Why This Temple Matters
Key Takeaways
- Tibetan Buddhist (Cliffside Gelugpa) architecture
- Built by the 14th Century dynasty
- Located in Diskit (Nubra Valley), Ladakh
- Temple timings: 7:00 AM to 1:00 PM and 2:00 PM to 7:00 PM.
- Best visited: May to September, when the Khardung La pass (the route to Nubra Valley) is open and safe for travel.
Quick Facts
- Location
- Diskit (Nubra Valley)
- Architecture
- Tibetan Buddhist (Cliffside Gelugpa)
- Dynasty
- 14th Century
- Timings
- 7:00 AM to 1:00 PM and 2:00 PM to 7:00 PM.
- Entry Fee
- Free
- Best Time
- May to September, when the Khardung La pass (the route to Nubra Valley) is open and safe for travel.
Overview
The oldest and largest monastery in the Nubra Valley, featuring a towering 106-foot statue of Maitreya Buddha overlooking the Shyok River.
History & Legacy
Religious & Cultural Significance
The 32-meter golden Maitreya Buddha statue is the monastery's iconic centerpiece. Diskit is the oldest and largest monastery in the Nubra Valley, and the statue was consecrated by the Dalai Lama in 2010.
Daily Rituals
Daily morning prayers. The monastery also runs a school for local children, integrating modern education with monastic training.
Festivals & Celebrations
Festival
The Dosmochey festival (Festival of the Scapegoat) is celebrated here in February with Cham dances, during which a sacrificial offering is made to ward off evil spirits.
Interesting Facts
106-ft Maitreya Buddha Statue, Nubra Valley Location, Ancient Frescoes
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit to visit Diskit?
A.
Yes, as Nubra Valley is close to the border, Indian tourists need an Inner Line Permit (ILP), and foreign nationals need a Protected Area Permit (PAP).
Answers are based on verified information. Site rules may change — verify locally before visiting.
Sources & References
Ministry of Tourism, Government of India
"Ministry of Tourism — official destination information"
View SourceLinks Last Checked
30 September 2026
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Visiting as an International Traveller
Foreign visitor information is being researched
Please verify with the official authority for this site before planning your visit.
Entry Status
Foreign Visitors
Verify Before VisitingVisitor Information
Entry policies are set by each site — confirm before travelling.
Entry rules for international visitorsWho can enter, permits, and what to expect at the gate.Dress Code
Modest clothing is expected — a sign of respect, not a restriction.
Shoulders covered
Knees covered
Shoes removed before entry
Head covering (women)
Rain gear available
Warm layers (winter)
Photography Guide
Outside
Inside
Flash
Drone
Tripod
Commercial
Best Time to Visit
Peak Season
May to September, when the Khardung La pass (the route to Nubra Valley) is open and safe for travel.
Moderate to High — comfortable weather
Summer
April — June
Low — hot plains, pleasant hills
Monsoon
July — September
Low — lush landscape, travel delays possible
Language & Communication
Understanding Temple Traditions
These short explanations help make sense of what you see and experience.
Tips for International Visitors
Temple vocabulary and ritualsDarshan, pradakshina, prasadam, aarti, hundi and mandapa.Currency, donations and queuesCash, UPI, donation etiquette and how long entry queues take.Photography etiquetteSignage, flash, selfie sticks and photographing other visitors.Festival crowds and safetyAdvance booking, road closures, belongings and offline maps.
Essential Contacts
Police / Ambulance / Fire: 112 (National Emergency Number)
Tourist Helpline: 1800-111-363 (Multi-lingual, Ministry of Tourism)
Women's Helpline: 1091
Travel Preparation Checklist
Packing Checklist for Diskit Monastery
Continue Reading
Rules change — confirm current policies with the site's authority before you travel.
Site-verified visitor data pending. See our sources and methodology.
By Naveen singh negi
Ladakh
14th Century
Buddhist Monastery
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