Founded by Od-de, the elder brother of Lha Lama Changchub Od, in the 11th century. The name 'Spituk', meaning 'exemplary', was given by Rinchen Zangpo, a famous translator, who visited the site and prophesied its future greatness.
Sacred Heritage
Spituk Monastery
Spituk (Near Leh), Ladakh
State:Ladakh
District:Spituk (Near Leh)
Why This Temple Matters
Key Takeaways
- Tibetan Buddhist (Dzong Style) architecture
- Built by the 11th Century Origins dynasty
- Located in Spituk (Near Leh), Ladakh
- Temple timings: 8:00 AM to 1:00 PM and 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM.
- Best visited: During the Spituk Gustor festival in winter for the full cultural experience, or during summer for pleasant weather and clear views of the Indus.
Quick Facts
- Location
- Spituk (Near Leh)
- Architecture
- Tibetan Buddhist (Dzong Style)
- Dynasty
- 11th Century Origins
- Timings
- 8:00 AM to 1:00 PM and 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM.
- Entry Fee
- Free
- Best Time
- During the Spituk Gustor festival in winter for the full cultural experience, or during summer for pleasant weather and clear views of the Indus.
Overview
An impressive 11th-century Gompa overlooking the Indus River, known for its giant statue of Kali and stunning views of the Leh airport.
History & Legacy
Religious & Cultural Significance
The veiled Mahakala (Kali) statue, whose face is unveiled only during the annual Gustor festival, is the monastery's most distinctive feature. The name 'Spituk' means 'exemplary' and the monastery belongs to the Gelugpa sect.
Daily Rituals
Daily chanting and prayers by the monks in the main Dukhang. The unveiling of the terrifying face of the protector deity in the upper temple is a highly secretive and rare ritual.
Festivals & Celebrations
Festival
The Gustor Festival, held in the 11th month of the Tibetan calendar (January), is famous for its Cham dances and the unveiling of the giant Kali face.
Interesting Facts
Giant Kali Statue, Views of Indus and Airport, Ancient Thangkas
Frequently Asked Questions
Can anyone see the Kali statue?
A.
The face of the deity is kept covered throughout the year and is only unveiled during the annual Spituk Gustor festival.
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
During the Spituk Gustor festival in winter for the full cultural experience, or during summer for pleasant weather and clear views of the Indus.
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 Spituk 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
11th Century Origins
Buddhist Monastery
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