Key Monastery
About
Kye (or Ki) Gompa is Spiti's largest and oldest active monastery, a fortress-like complex of whitewashed buildings clinging to a 4,166-metre conical hilltop above the Spiti river, 15 kilometres from Kaza. Founded in the 11th century and expanded over the following centuries, Key houses around 250 monks and a priceless collection of thangkas, murals, and ancient weapons. The monastery has withstood Mongol raids, Sikh invasions, fire, and earthquake, and is one of the most recognisable images of the valley.
Highlights
What makes this place special
Hilltop Complex
The monastery's stacked whitewashed buildings on a conical hill form one of the most iconic views in the Himalayas.
Main Prayer Hall
Densely painted with thangkas, butter lamps, and ancient wall art from across a thousand years of Buddhist practice.
Things to Know
- •Open 7 AM to 6 PM
- •Free entry; donations welcome
- •Photography allowed outside, limited inside
- •Remove footwear at the main hall
- •Stay overnight at the monastery guesthouse (rooms limited)
- •Morning prayer at 6:30 AM is worth attending
