Key Monastery in Spiti Valley
· Summer: May-October (20°C - 30°C)
· Winter: November-April (0°C - 24°C)
· Monsoon: N/A
Best time to visit:
April-November
Opening Time: 06:00 a.m.
Closing Time: 07:00 p.m.
Weekly Holiday:
Entry Fees for Indians
Adults: N/A
Children:
N/A
Cameras: N/A
Video Camera: N/A
Entry Fees for Foreign Nationals
Adults:
N/A
Children:
N/A
Cameras:
N/A
Video Camera:
N/A
Witness to numerous devastating events like fire breakouts, earthquakes, human invasions and power struggles, Key (Ki, Kee or Kye) Monastery is one of the most scenic Buddhist structures in the world. With its fort-like façade, the monastery rests on a hilltop at a height of about 13,668 ft. The way this spectacular structure overlooks the gigantic snow-topped mountains and River Spiti meandering nearby, it is impossible to get spellbound by the sight.
Originally built in the 11th century, the monastery underwent renovations many times. As a religious learning centre, it is home to more than 250 monks and boasts of some truly magnificent murals and paintings. Wind instruments, thangkas, manuscripts, stuccos and many other valuable possessions of the monastery are worth exploring. Tourists can stay here by paying nominal costs. However, it is important to strictly practice discipline and follow the rules. Nothing can beat the calmness that one gets to enjoy at this place. It hosts the annual July Chaam Festival, a very entertaining event featuring music and dance.
Connectivites
Road:
The monastery is accessible from the popular hill resorts and valleys like Shimla and Kullu Manali by roads. The closest village is Kaza, about 15 km. from the monastery. Vehicles are allowed up to the main gate from where one must walk about a km. to access the monastery. Due to heavy snowfall, the monastery remains inaccessible during winters
Railway:
The closest railway station is at Joginder Nagar, a narrow gauge rail access point about 350 km. away. Taxis can be hired from this point to reach the destination.
Airway:
Bhuntar Airport is the nearest airport to the monastery, about 240 km. away. From here, you must hire a taxi for the further road journey.