Dhankar Monastery & Lake, an eternal bliss

Introduction :

Dhankar monastery is locked between the rocky spurs at the top of clif in the Dhankar village at an elevation of over 3,800 meters in the Spiti valley. It is a 16th century old fort monastery, which has also served as a prison in the erstwhile era. The Dhankar Gomba is over 1000 years old and is connected to the rest of the valley through a Motorable road, which is good for small vehicle only. There is a new monastery in the small village of Shichilling below the old monastery. The old monastery is associated with the Great Translator, Rinchen Zanggpo, and its complex comprises a number of multi-storey buildings perched together.

A paradise called Dhankar Lake, there is something special about Dhankhar Lake in the Spiti Valley of Himachal Pradesh that pulls trekkers, tourists and nature lovers to it despite the challenging 5 km uphill trek along a barren, muddy and dusty path in inclement weather.Dhankar Lake is situated above the village Dhankar at an elevation of approximately 4140 meters in the middle of the hill. It tooks around 2 hours time from the Dhankar village

How to reach Dhankar Monastery & Lake?

Air travellers can take a direct flight to Kullu-Manali Airport from Kolkata via Delhi. From the airport, board a bus or hire a taxi to Dhankar monastery. Joginder Nagar is the nearest railway station, located at a distance of about 400 km from the lake. Reach Tabo or Kaza town first, and then continue the remaining part of your journey.

What to expect at the lake?

There is an ancient stupa at the lakeside where visitors can pray and chant. And if you are lucky, you might even spot the elusive Himalayan Ibex. The lake also offers breathtaking views of Manirang Peak, the highest peak of Himachal Pradesh located on the border of Kinnaur and Spiti district. The shimmery lake with its calming effect provides perfect opportunities to photography lovers to capture the magical moments.

My Realization :

I realized that we, the so called modernized people, are just nothing in front of these vast beauties. I didn’t forget to click as much as I could (till my battery permitted).I was satisfied with the view of the Monastery and Lake I got but at the same time, was unsatisfied too for this short-time-paying visit. I decided, this is not the end, I will, I must come to you again & again to see your beauty. You will not let me ignore you in anyway. Miles to go before I sleep, miles to go before I sleep.

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