Tabo’s allure lies in its ancient heritage and spiritual sanctity.

By Ajit Brar

Nestled in the heart of the majestic Spiti Valley, at an altitude of approximately 3,280 meters (10,760 ft). Lies the tranquil village of Tabo. Often referred to as the “Ajanta of the Himalayas,” Tabo is a spiritual and historical treasure trove. Unlike the monasteries perched on high cliffs, Tabo’s main monastery is situated on a flat plain on the banks of the Spiti River. Offering a unique and profound sense of peace. For travelers on the popular Spiti circuit, Tabo is more than just a pit stop; it’s a place to slow down, absorb a thousand years of history, and connect with a deeply rooted Tibetan Buddhist culture.

Tabo’s allure lies in its ancient heritage and spiritual sanctity. It’s a must-visit for:

• History and Art Enthusiasts: The village is home to the Tabo Monastery, one of the oldest continuously functioning monasteries in India, dating back to 996 CE. Its intricate murals and stucco sculptures are remarkably preserved, earning it the moniker “Ajanta of the Himalayas.” The monastery is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, a testament to its cultural and historical significance.
• Spiritual Seekers: The air in Tabo is thick with spiritual energy. You can witness the daily lives of the monks, sit in on a prayer session, or even find a quiet corner to meditate. The serene environment and the timeless chanting of prayers create a profound sense of calm.
• Nature Lovers: The village is surrounded by stark, barren mountains that create a dramatic and beautiful landscape. The Spiti River flows nearby, adding a touch of life to the cold desert scenery. The contrast between the vibrant murals inside the monastery and the rugged terrain outside is truly captivating.
• Adventure Travelers: Tabo serves as a perfect base for exploring nearby attractions and indulging in high-altitude trekking and hiking.

While the entire village is a joy to explore, these are the key highlights:

• Tabo Monastery: The main attraction, this ancient complex is a must-visit. It consists of nine temples, 23 chortens (stupas), and several other structures, all made of mud and wood. Inside, the walls are adorned with stunning, ancient murals and frescoes that depict Buddhist tales and deities. Photography is not allowed inside, so you’ll have to rely on your memory and senses to capture the beauty.
• Tabo Caves: A short hike above the village, these ancient caves are carved into the rocky cliffs. They were historically used by monks for meditation and shelter during the harsh winters. Today, some are still in use, marked by prayer flags. The caves offer a glimpse into the ascetic life of Buddhist practitioners and provide panoramic views of the village and the valley below.
• The Village Itself: Take a leisurely stroll through the narrow lanes of Tabo village. Admire the traditional mud-brick houses and interact with the warm and welcoming locals. You might even stumble upon lush green patches of pea and apple orchards, a surprising sight in this cold desert.
• Dhankar Monastery and Lake: A short drive from Tabo is the dramatic Dhankar Monastery, perched precariously on a cliff overlooking the confluence of the Spiti and Pin rivers. From there, you can embark on a trek to the beautiful, pristine Dhankar Lake, a serene spot perfect for moments of solitude and stunning photos.

• Trek to the Tabo Caves: This is an easy and rewarding activity. The hike is not very strenuous and offers a great way to acclimatize while getting a fantastic view of the monastery and village.
• Stargazing: Due to the high altitude and lack of light pollution, Tabo offers some of the best stargazing opportunities in the world. On a clear night, you can see the Milky Way with the naked eye.
• Photography: The unique architecture of the monastery, the rugged landscapes, and the vibrant local life provide endless opportunities for photographers. Capture the stunning views, the play of light on the mountains, and the simple beauty of village life.
• Try Local Cuisine: Don’t miss the chance to savor authentic Tibetan and local Himachali dishes. Warm yourself with a bowl of thukpa (noodle soup) or momos at one of the village’s small eateries.
• Meditate: Whether you find a quiet corner within the monastery complex or a secluded spot in the caves, take some time to meditate. The peaceful surroundings and spiritual vibrations of Tabo are ideal for inner reflection.

Reaching Tabo is an integral part of the Spiti Valley adventure, with two main routes:

• From Shimla via Kinnaur: This is the most common route and is generally open year-round, except for temporary closures due to landslides or heavy snow. The journey takes you through Narkanda, Rampur, Reckong Peo, and Nako. From Nako, Tabo is approximately 63 km away.
• From Manali via Rohtang Pass: This is a more challenging but equally stunning route, typically open from late June to early October due to heavy snowfall at Rohtang and Kunzum passes. The journey takes you through Kaza, with Tabo being about 48 km from Kaza.

By Bus: The Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) operates buses on both the Shimla-Kaza and Manali-Kaza routes, with stops in Tabo. This is a budget-friendly option, though the journey can be long and arduous.

By Taxi: You can hire a private taxi from Shimla, Reckong Peo, or Manali. This offers more flexibility and comfort but is a more expensive option.

Important Tip: Foreign nationals traveling via the Shimla-Kinnaur route require an Inner Line Permit, which can be obtained from the District Collector’s Office in Shimla or Reckong Peo. Additionally, it is essential to carry enough cash as ATMs are scarce, and mobile connectivity is limited to BSNL and Jio networks.

You Might Also Like to read –

A Journey Through Time: The Fascinating History of Key Monastery

Do comment Your Thoughts about The article.

Subscribe To My You tube Channel For Travel Video’s : Ajit Brar Vlogs and watch Spiti Valley vlogs.

You can use these pictures on your website. You can to do so for free as long as it is non-commercial use. Don’t forget to give credit to the author.

Always happy to help any traveller with passion to travel and explore the hidden treasures in India. If you need any advise or guidance To plan your next getaway, I am always available anytime. Do drop a massage or comment. I will try my best to reply, resolve and guide you on basis on my experience to make your trip memorable.

This Page “Tabo: The Spiritual Oasis of Spiti Valley” contains affiliate or paid advertisement to help in maintaining the website.