What if the future was already watching you?
Above a cold desert valley, a colossal figure rises in silence, facing the open land instead of a shrine. But why does this statue in Diskit Monastery face outward, blessing roads, mountains, and travelers, as if waiting for something yet to arrive?
That question leads you to Diskit Monastery, the oldest & largest in Nubra Valley. Below it stands a 106-foot Maitreya Buddha, calm and immense, not recalling the past but quietly promising the future.
But how does one truly encounter the Future Buddha? What does meeting Maitreya mean in Buddhist tradition, beyond photographs and first impressions? This blog unravels the beliefs, stories, and essential information you should know before journeying to Ladakh and standing before the majestic Diskit Monastery.
Read on, not just to visit Diksit Monastery, but to understand why this silent guardian of the future continues to watch, wait, and inspire.
Location & Altitude of Diskit Monastery
Diskit Monastery, also known as Deskit Gompa, is situated in Diskit village, the headquarters of Nubra tehsil in Leh district, Ladakh, India. Perched at an altitude of 10,315 ft (3,145 m), it overlooks the Shyok Valley, offering panoramic views of surrounding mountains, the river, and lush meadows. The monastery functions as a sub-gompa of Thiksey Monastery. Its elevated location not only provides spectacular vistas but also a serene environment for meditation. The combination of breathtaking landscapes and rich Buddhist culture makes it a must-visit destination in Nubra Valley.
Diskit Monastery History
Diskit Monastery dates back to the 14th century, founded by Changzem Tserab Zangpo during the rule of Ladakh’s early kings. With the support of local rulers, the monastery became an important centre of the Gelugpa sect, honouring Tsong Khapa, its founder. Over time, Nubra Valley came under Ladakhi rule after several battles, bringing cultural and religious growth to the region. Deeply devoted kings supported monasteries, prayers, and mani walls. In the 18th century, Diskit Monastery was placed under Thiksey Monastery’s guidance, a bond that continues even today.
Did you know: Diskit Monastery has been considered a branch of the Thiksey monastery.
Diskit Monastery Architecture
Diskit Monastery’s architecture reflects classic Tibetan Buddhist design set dramatically atop a hill in Nubra Valley. Reached by a flight of stone steps, the monastery opens into the dukhang (main prayer hall), housing a massive ceremonial drum and a striking statue of Maitreya Buddha. The second floor features chambers lined with fierce guardian deities. An elevated cupola displays a fresco of Tibet’s Tashilhunpo Monastery, highlighting cultural links with Tibet and Mongolia. While newer extensions remain intact, the original structures, zimcchungh and prayer hall, show visible decay, with soot-covered murals and neglected interiors.
Iconic Maitreya Buddha Statue
The monastery is famous for its 106-foot (32 m) Maitreya Buddha statue, located on the hill below the main complex, overlooking the Shyok River. Representing Maitreya, the future Buddha prophesied to appear when Gautama Buddha’s teachings are forgotten, the statue symbolizes compassion, guidance, and enlightenment. Built in April 2006 with local donations and decorated with 8 kg of gold, it was consecrated by the Dalai Lama on 25th July 2010. It serves to protect Diskit village, promote peace, and inspire spiritual harmony worldwide.
Festivals Celebrated at Diskit Monastery
People celebrate Dosmoche, also known as the “Festival of the Scapegoat,” as one of the most important prayer festivals in Nubra Valley, especially at Diskit Monastery. Observed in February, the festival draws large crowds from nearby villages because the Khardung La pass is snowbound, making travel to Likir difficult.
Rituals and Traditions
- Mask Dance (Cham Dance): Monks wear vibrant masks and costumes to enact spiritual stories, highlighting the victory of positive forces.
- Protection and Prosperity: People throw away dough effigies as offerings to ward off disasters and bring peace and prosperity to the community.
- Unveiling of Deities: Priests remove the cloth coverings from the heads of deity statues during the festival, symbolizing blessings and divine presence.
Places to Explore Near Diskit Monastery
There are several remarkable attractions nearby that showcase the natural beauty and cultural richness of Nubra Valley.
- Maitreya Buddha Statue: Just below the monastery stands the 106-foot statue of Maitreya Buddha, offering breathtaking views of the Shyok Valley and surrounding landscapes.
- Hunder Sand Dunes: About 10 km away, these high-altitude desert dunes are famous for Bactrian camel rides, providing a unique experience amidst golden sands.
- Sumur Village & Samstanling Monastery: Located roughly 15 km from Diskit, this tranquil village features a historic monastery set among apricot orchards.
- Yarab Tso Lake: It lies near Sumur as a hidden gem—a serene high-altitude lake that locals consider sacred and ideal for quiet reflection.
- Panamik Village: Located 20–25 km from Diskit, it is famous for its hot sulphur springs and stands as the last accessible settlement near the Siachen Glacier.
- Lachung Temple: Situated within Diskit village, it is one of the oldest temples in the area, reflecting local religious traditions.
- Shyok River Valley: The scenic Shyok River winds through the region, offering several viewpoints ideal for photography and nature appreciation.
Diskit Monastery Visit Details
| Timings | 7:00 AM – 1:00 PM & 2:00 PM – 7:00 PM |
| Entry Fee | INR 30-50 per person |
Visitors can explore the monastery during these hours, enjoying its spiritual ambiance, murals, and the iconic Maitreya Buddha statue.
Best Time to Visit
The ideal time to visit Diskit Monastery is from May to October, when the weather is pleasant, and roads to Ladakh are open, making travel smooth and comfortable. For those interested in Buddhist culture, visiting during the Dosmoche festival in February is a unique experience, though the weather is harsh. From November to April, roads via Manali and Srinagar remain closed due to snow, so flying to Ladakh is the only option to reach the Monastery during these months. Plan your visit according to the weather and festival preferences.
Suggested Read: Rezang La War Memorial, Ladakh: History, Museum & Best Itinerary
How to reach Diskit Monastery
You can best reach Diskit Monastery, located 116 km from Leh in Nubra Valley, via Leh.
- By Air: Fly to Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport, hire a taxi to Leh, then travel to Nubra Valley.
- By Road: Summer taxis or buses go via Khardung La and Khalsar village to Diskit.
- By Train: Nearest station is Jammu Tawi (812 km); hire a cab to Leh with overnight stops in Srinagar/Kargil.
You can use private cabs, buses, or bikes to explore the monastery and nearby attractions.
Things to Keep in Mind
- Cash & Connectivity: Carry enough cash, as there are no ATMs in Diskit. Mobile networks remain limited; BSNL provides coverage near Nubra, while other networks often fail to deliver reliable service.
- Photography & Etiquette: Photography is strictly prohibited inside the museum and the prayer hall. It’s also important to follow monastery rules and request consent before photographing any monks.
- Dress & Weather: Wear modest, appropriate clothing and carry warm layers, as the weather can change suddenly.
- Health & Hydration: High altitudes can cause dehydration, so drink plenty of water.
- Fuel Availability: Petrol pumps in Diskit remain operational even in winter, making road travel convenient.
So, as you descend from Diskit Monastery, the wind carrying chants and the faint glint of prayer flags, one question lingers: what is the future that the Maitreya Buddha has been silently watching all this time? Is it the promise of peace, the stories of countless pilgrims, or something only the mountains themselves know? Standing there, you realize visiting Diskit isn’t just sightseeing, it’s stepping into a living mystery, one that quietly waits for each traveler to uncover its secrets.
Explore the breathtaking landscapes with our Ladakh Backpacking Trips and create unforgettable memories.
Frequently asked questions
The entry fee is nominal, typically INR 30–50 per person. Visitors can explore the prayer hall, murals, and the iconic 106-foot Maitreya Buddha statue during visiting hours.
In the 14th century, Changzem Tserab Zangpo founded this Monastery with the support of early Ladakhi kings. It is a prominent center of the Gelugpa (Yellow Hat) sect.
Diskit Monastery is famous for its 106-foot Maitreya Buddha statue, panoramic views of Nubra Valley, historic Tibetan architecture, Gelugpa sect heritage, and vibrant cultural celebrations like the Dosmoche festival.
Diskit Monastery is located in Diskit village, Nubra Valley, Leh district, Ladakh, India, at an altitude of 10,315 ft, offering stunning valley views and a spiritual ambiance for visitors.
Near Diskit Monastery, visitors can explore the 106-foot Maitreya Buddha statue, Hunder Sand Dunes with camel rides, Sumur Village and Samstanling Monastery, Yarab Tso Lake, Panamik hot springs, Lachung Temple, and the scenic Shyok River Valley.