Unlike other monasteries on hills, Tabo is situated in the valley floor. Its unassuming mud exterior hides a treasure trove of art inside. The walls are covered in exquisite frescoes depicting the life of Buddha, earning it the title 'Ajanta of the Himalayas'.
Ajanta of Himalayas
Tabo Monastery Guide
A Millennium of Peace
Founded in 996 AD, Tabo is the oldest continuously operating Buddhist enclave.
✦Mud Architecture
✦Murals
✦Meditation Caves
Recommended Tour
Spiti & Kinnaur Adventure
10 Days Shimla → Kinnaur → Spiti → Manali 5.0
The ultimate road trip combining the lush valleys of Kinnaur with the raw, rugged beauty of Spiti.
Sangla Valley
Chitkul
Nako Lake
Essential Guide
Getting There
48km from Kaza.
Best Time & Weather
Best Months
May to October
Expectations
Warm days in summer.
Things to Do
- ✦Morning prayers
- ✦Visit meditation caves
Frequently Asked Questions
01.Farm-to-table in Tabo?
Tabo has vast apple and apricot orchards offering fresh meals.
02.Why 'Ajanta'?
Because of exquisite wall paintings (frescoes).
03.Photography?
Strictly NO inside temples. Flash damages art.
04.Caves?
Meditation caves carved in hill opposite monastery.
05.Food?
Tabo has good cafes (Third Eye, Kunzum Top).
06.Stay?
Monastery guest house is cheap and clean.
07.Distance Kaza?
48km (1.5 hours).