Spituk

Perched dramatically on a high rocky hill overlooking the Indus River just 8 kilometers from Leh, Spituk Monastery (Spituk Gompa) is one of the most historic and visually striking Buddhist sanctuaries in Ladakh. Founded in the 11th century by Od-de, the elder brother of Lha Lama Changchub Od, the monastery was later blessed by Rinchen Zangpo, who foretold that an exemplary religious community would arise here—giving the site its name, “Spituk” (meaning “Exemplary”). Belonging to the Gelugpa (Yellow Hat) order of Tibetan Buddhism, this hill fortress monastery offers breathtaking views across the Indus valley, airport runway, and surrounding mountain ranges. Visiting Spituk provides travelers with an inspiring journey through ancient prayer halls, sacred Buddhist statues, and centuries of monastic tradition.