Diskit Monastery is the oldest and the largest Buddhist monastery in all of Nubra Valley. It stands at an altitude of about 10,300 ft in the cold desert of Ladakh, and has been drawing travelers from all over the world for centuries. If you are planning a trip to Nubra Valley, a visit to Diskit Gompa and the 106 ft tall Maitreya Buddha statue is something you simply cannot miss.
In this travel guide, I will share everything you need to know before visiting Diskit Monastery, covering how to reach from Leh, entry fee and timings, best time to visit, where to stay, taxi rates, Inner Line Permit details, budget breakdown, and practical tips that will help you plan a smooth trip. I have personally visited Nubra Valley multiple times over the years, so the information here comes from first-hand experience and is updated for 2026.
Let's quickly dive into the details:
Quick Facts About Diskit Monastery
Before diving into the details, here is a quick reference table with the most important information about Diskit Monastery at a glance.
| Location | Diskit Village, Nubra Valley, Ladakh |
| Altitude | 10,300 ft (3,142 meters) |
| Distance from Leh | About 120 km via Khardung La |
| Drive Time from Leh | 5 to 6 hours |
| Founded | 14th century by Changzem Tserab Zangpo |
| Sect | Gelugpa (Yellow Hat) sect of Tibetan Buddhism |
| Entry Fee | Rs 30 per person |
| Timings | 7:00 AM to 1:00 PM, 2:00 PM to 7:00 PM (daily) |
| Best Time to Visit | May to September |
| ILP Required | Yes, for Nubra Valley |
| Key Attraction | 106 ft Maitreya Buddha Statue |
| Photography | Allowed outside, not inside prayer hall |
What is the History of Diskit Monastery?
Diskit Monastery was founded in the 14th century by Changzem Tserab Zangpo, a disciple of Tsong Khapa. It belongs to the Gelugpa (Yellow Hat) sect of Tibetan Buddhism and is a sub-gompa of the Thiksey Monastery. Over the centuries, it has grown into the most important monastery in the entire Nubra region, housing about 100 monks who continue the traditions of prayer, study, and teaching.
The monastery also carries an interesting legend. There once lived a demon near the monastery, an evil anti-Buddhist being. He was killed at the monastery but is said to have been resurrected multiple times since his demise. Today, his wrinkled head and hand are said to be lying in one of the temples of the monastery. Whether you believe the legend or not, the history and the atmosphere of this place are genuinely remarkable.
It is worth noting that Diskit Gompa is one of the most historically significant monasteries in all of Ladakh. If you are someone who enjoys exploring Buddhist heritage, I suggest combining your visit with Hemis Monastery and Thiksey Monastery near Leh for a well-rounded experience of Ladakh’s spiritual side.
What Can You See at Diskit Monastery?
The monastery complex has several attractions that make it worth spending at least 1 to 2 hours here. Tourists generally visit Nubra Valley as a two-day trip from Leh and stay either in Diskit Village or Hunder Village. Diskit Gompa, milky white, is perched on a high hill at the edge of a road that links with Parthapur and Those. You need to hike up to the monastery alongside the stunning white Chortens, and the walk itself is worth it for the views.
The 106 ft Maitreya Buddha Statue
Diskit, mostly because of the 106 ft tall Maitreya Buddha statue, has become one of the most popular tourist attractions in Ladakh. This Buddha statue in gold and red faces the Shyok River towards Pakistan, right below the monastery on the top of a hill. Consecrated by the Dalai Lama in the year 2010, the statue is said to signify and promote three ideas: protection of Diskit Village, prevention of further war with Pakistan, and promotion of world peace. Standing at the base of this statue and looking out over the vast Nubra Valley is one of those moments that stays with you.
Inside the Monastery Complex
Adorned with intricate frescoes and wall paintings, the Gompa is a delight to the eyes and the soul. Inside Dukhang, the prayer hall, there are huge drums and images of the Buddhist guardian deities. Diskit Monastery also has an elevated cupola (dome adorning a roof), with a wall fresco that depicts the Tashilhunpo Monastery of Tibet. There are numerous shrines, and Mongolian and Tibetan religious texts preserved in the storehouse of the monastery.
Keep in mind that photography is not allowed inside the prayer hall and the museum. Please follow the monastery rules and ask before taking a photograph of any monk. Do not step over any statue or religious object, and respect the sanctity of the place. I suggest planning about 60 to 90 minutes for the full monastery visit, including the walk up, the prayer halls, and the Maitreya Buddha viewpoint.
Lachung Temple
One of the oldest temples in the Nubra region is the Lachung Temple, which sits right above the monastery. Here, a large idol of Tsong Khapa, the founder of the Gelugpa sect, is worshipped. The monastery also runs a school in its premises that teaches Tibetan children, with the help of an NGO called The Tibet Support Group.
The most attractive part of visiting the Diskit Gompa is the spectacular panoramic view of Diskit Village and the surrounding landscape that one gets from the top of the monastery. The view of the cold desert meeting the green patches of the valley, with the Shyok River snaking through it, is truly something special. You just cannot miss it!
What is the Entry Fee and Timings of Diskit Monastery?
The entry fee for Diskit Monastery is Rs 30 per person as of 2026. The monastery is open every day from 7:00 AM to 1:00 PM and then again from 2:00 PM to 7:00 PM. There is a one-hour lunch break in between. I suggest you visit in the morning when the light is beautiful for photography (from outside the prayer hall, of course) and the monastery is relatively less crowded.
There is no separate fee for visiting the Maitreya Buddha statue area. The walk up from the parking lot to the statue and then to the main monastery complex takes about 20 to 30 minutes, depending on your pace. Keep in mind that the altitude can make you a little breathless, so take it slow. If you have elderly people or children in your group, allow some extra time for the uphill walk.
Do You Need an Inner Line Permit (ILP) for Nubra Valley?
Yes, you need an Inner Line Permit (ILP) to visit Nubra Valley, and that includes Diskit Monastery. As of 2026, all domestic Indian tourists must obtain an ILP before traveling beyond Khardung La into Nubra Valley. The permit can be applied for online through the official LAHDC portal at lahdclehpermit.in, though the payment and final stamp still need to be done in person at the DC office in Leh (opposite J&K Bank, Main Market).
The fee structure includes an environment fee of Rs 400 plus a wildlife protection fee plus the ILP fee itself (Rs 20 per day). The total cost comes to approximately Rs 500 to Rs 560 per person for a typical 2-3 day Nubra Valley trip, depending on the number of areas you include in your permit. If you are hiring a taxi from Leh, most taxi operators include the ILP cost in their package, so do confirm with your driver upfront.
For a detailed step-by-step guide on how to apply for the ILP online, check my article on Ladakh Inner Line Permits Online.
How to Reach Diskit Monastery from Leh?
Diskit Monastery is located about 120 km from Leh, beyond Khardung La pass. The drive takes approximately 5 to 6 hours depending on road conditions and traffic at Khardung La. Here is the segment-wise route breakdown so you can plan your halts.
| Segment | Distance | Approx Time |
|---|---|---|
| Leh to South Pullu | 24 km | 45 min |
| South Pullu to Khardung La | 16 km | 45 min |
| Khardung La to North Pullu | 15 km | 30 min |
| North Pullu to Khardung Village | 19 km | 40 min |
| Khardung Village to Khalsar | 23 km | 45 min |
| Khalsar to Diskit | 23 km | 40 min |
| Total: Leh to Diskit | ~120 km | 5 to 6 hours |
At Khalsar village, the road bifurcates into two. The left branch descends to Diskit and Hunder villages, while the right branch leads to Sumur and Panamik in Nubra Valley. The road from Diskit Monastery to Diskit village center is about a 7-minute drive or a 35-minute walk uphill.
By Taxi from Leh
The best and most common way to reach Diskit is by hiring a taxi from Leh. As of 2026, a 2-day return taxi from Leh covering Diskit and Hunder costs approximately Rs 10,000 to Rs 13,000 for a sedan or SUV. If you are also adding Turtuk to your Nubra itinerary (which I highly recommend), the 3-day taxi rate goes up to around Rs 14,000 to Rs 17,000. These are the official taxi union rates, and they include all taxes and fees. There has been no major rate hike since 2022, so these numbers should hold for the 2026 season.
For the latest official taxi rate chart for all Ladakh routes, refer to the Leh Ladakh Taxi Rates article.
By Self-Drive or Bike
If you are riding a bike or driving your own vehicle, the road from Leh to Diskit via Khardung La is tarmac for most stretches. However, the section around Khardung La can have loose gravel and broken patches. SUVs and bikes with good ground clearance handle it well. Sedans can manage but need cautious driving, especially on the descent from Khardung La. I suggest you start early from Leh, ideally by 7 AM, to avoid the heavy tourist traffic at Khardung La and reach Diskit with plenty of daylight to spare.
For self-drivers, keep in mind that fuel is available at the Diskit petrol pump, which remains operational year-round. So you do not need to carry extra jerry cans specifically for the Nubra trip. That said, I always suggest keeping your tank at least half full as a habit when driving in Ladakh.
By Bus from Leh
You can also board a local bus from Leh to Nubra Valley. The LSRTC bus from Leh to Diskit runs on specific days of the week (typically Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday) during summer months, departing Leh bus stand around 6 AM. The fare is around Rs 200 to Rs 350 per person one way. Keep in mind that the bus journey is long and tiring, covering over 5 hours with no guaranteed comfort, but it is the cheapest option if you are on a tight budget. There is no advance booking, so you need to reach the bus stand early and buy your ticket from the conductor directly.
By Air
The nearest airport is Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport in Leh, which is well connected with Delhi, Mumbai, Srinagar, and Jammu. From the airport, you can hire a taxi to your hotel in Leh and then plan a 2-3 day trip to Nubra Valley after proper acclimatization in Leh. In case you are flying into Leh, please do not head to Nubra Valley on the same day. Spend at least 1-2 days in Leh for acclimatization before crossing Khardung La. This is not optional advice, it is essential for your safety.
By Train + Road
The nearest major railway station is Jammu Tawi, about 700 km from Leh. From there, you can take a taxi or bus to reach Leh via the Srinagar Leh Highway in about 2-3 days with halts at Srinagar and Kargil. After reaching Leh, acclimatize for a day and then head to Diskit.
When is the Best Time to Visit Diskit Monastery?
The months of May to September are the best time to visit Diskit Monastery, as the weather is pleasant and both road routes to Ladakh (via Manali and Srinagar) are open. June, July, and August see the warmest temperatures in Nubra Valley, with daytime highs around 25 to 30 degrees Celsius. September brings the start of autumn colors, and the tourist crowd thins out considerably. Hence, the best time to travel to Diskit Monastery is the same as the best time to visit Leh Ladakh in general.
Here is a quick month-wise breakdown to help you decide:
| Month | Weather | Crowd | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|---|
| May | Cool days, cold nights (5-15 C) | Moderate | Good, roads just opening |
| June | Pleasant (10-25 C) | High | Very good, clear roads |
| July | Warm days (15-30 C) | Peak | Best weather, most crowded |
| August | Warm, occasional rain (15-28 C) | Peak | Good, book accommodation early |
| September | Cool, autumn colors (5-20 C) | Low | Excellent, fewer tourists |
| October | Cold (0-12 C) | Very Low | Possible, roads may close late Oct |
| Nov-April | Harsh winter (-20 to 5 C) | Minimal | Only by flight, very limited options |
Visiting Diskit During the Dosmoche Festival
A very special time to visit is during the Dosmoche Festival, also called the “Festival of the Scapegoat.” It is celebrated at Diskit Monastery with masked cham dances, folk performances, and religious rituals meant to ward off evil spirits and welcome peace. The festival usually falls in February. In 2026, the Dosmoche festival at Diskit was scheduled for 15th to 16th February. If you are willing to brave the harsh winter months and want to explore the white beauty of Ladakh, visiting during Dosmoche would give you a truly unique cultural experience.
Keep in mind that the roads to Ladakh via Srinagar and Manali are closed from November to May due to heavy snow. So if you are visiting in winter, flying into Leh is the only option, and you will need to arrange a local taxi or self-drive from Leh to Nubra. The road from Leh to Nubra via Khardung La usually remains open even in winter, though conditions can be icy and challenging. Accommodation options are also very limited during winter, with only a few homestays remaining operational.
What Else Can You See Near Diskit Monastery?
Diskit village is the headquarters of Nubra tehsil and the largest settlement in Nubra Valley. The village sits in a wide valley flanked by the Karakoram Range and the Ladakh Range. The Nubra River is a tributary of the Shyok River, which flows parallel to the Indus River on the northern side. As the valley is at a lower altitude compared to the surrounding passes, it has a favorable climate for lush green vegetation, and is rightly called the “Orchard of Ladakh.”
While visiting Diskit, make sure you visit the river area below the monastery for stunning views. You should also visit the nearby Hunder village, just 8 km from Diskit. Hunder is popular for its silver sand dunes, double-humped Bactrian camel rides (about Rs 300 to Rs 500 per ride, as of 2025), beautiful settlements, and a clear night sky perfect for stargazing.
Other places to explore from Diskit include:
- Sumur Village (about 30 km from Diskit), known for the Samstanling Monastery and Panamik Hot Springs
- Turtuk Village (about 90 km from Diskit), the last Indian village before the LoC, with a fascinating Balti culture. I highly recommend adding Turtuk to your itinerary.
- Panamik (about 55 km from Diskit), famous for natural hot sulfur springs
- Yarab Tso Lake, a sacred lake near Panamik
- Hunder Sand Dunes, for the famous Bactrian camel ride and desert-like landscape in the middle of the mountains
A visit to Nubra Valley including Diskit and Hunder is one of the top things to do in Ladakh. It can be easily covered as a 2-3 day trip from Leh after you have done your acclimatization. You can also combine it with a Leh local sightseeing day before heading to Nubra.
Where to Stay in Diskit and Hunder?
There are several guesthouses, homestays, and hotels in both Diskit village and Hunder village. Since the two villages are only 8 km apart, it does not matter much which one you pick as your base. Here is a rough idea of accommodation costs as of 2025. Keep in mind that prices tend to go up by 10-15% during peak season (July-August).
| Category | Price Range (per night) | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Budget Homestays | Rs 800 to Rs 1,500 | Local homestays in Diskit/Hunder |
| Mid-Range Hotels | Rs 2,000 to Rs 4,000 | Hotel Olthang, Hotel Thachung, Lchang Nang |
| Comfort/Luxury | Rs 5,000 to Rs 10,000 | Grand Nubra, Karma Inn Hunder |
If you plan to book your stay on the spot after reaching Nubra, you will not go wrong with it during shoulder months (May, September). However, during peak season (July-August), I suggest booking in advance as the better properties do fill up. In winter, most hotels shut down, and only a few homestays remain operational. For the most authentic experience, I always recommend staying at a local homestay where you get home-cooked Ladakhi food and a chance to interact with the warm local families.
You can also check the Hotel StenDel Diskit review and the list of good hotels and guest houses in Nubra Valley for more options. For budget options in Leh before your Nubra trip, refer to cheap hotels and accommodation in Leh Ladakh.
Where to Eat in Diskit and on the Way?
I suggest you have a meal before you leave from Leh, and stock some snacks as well. On the road, you can have a soup or light snack at one of the world’s highest road cafes near Khardung La. After getting down from Khardung La, you can take a meal at dhabas at either Khardung village or Khalsar village. The food at these dhabas is simple but filling, mostly Maggi, rice, dal, and momos at around Rs 100 to Rs 200 per meal.
Once you reach Diskit and Hunder, you will find a decent number of food options. Some restaurants offer very nice and tasty local Ladakhi and Tibetan food like thukpa, momos, and skyu. Others serve standard tourist fare with noodles, rice, and roti. Budget around Rs 200 to Rs 400 per meal at most eateries in Nubra Valley. If you are staying at a homestay, the hosts usually offer breakfast and dinner included in the room price, and the food is always better than what you get at restaurants, in my experience.
You should always carry your water bottle and refill it as many times as you need water. It will not only keep you hydrated always, but you will also help in saving the Himalayas from plastic garbage. Remember, every tiny step counts and your step in this direction can help save the Himalayas too !! 🙂 🙂
How Much Does a Trip to Diskit Monastery Cost?
Here is a rough budget breakdown for a 2-day trip from Leh to Nubra Valley (Diskit + Hunder), per person, assuming a group of 4 sharing costs. These are approximate figures as of 2025-2026, so keep in mind that prices may vary slightly by the time you travel.
| Expense | Budget | Mid-Range |
|---|---|---|
| Taxi (2-day, shared by 4) | Rs 2,500/person | Rs 3,250/person |
| ILP + Environment Fee | Rs 500/person | Rs 500/person |
| Accommodation (1 night) | Rs 500/person | Rs 1,500/person |
| Meals (2 days) | Rs 500/person | Rs 800/person |
| Monastery Entry Fee | Rs 30/person | Rs 30/person |
| Camel Ride (optional) | Rs 400/person | Rs 400/person |
| Total (approx) | Rs 4,430/person | Rs 6,480/person |
If you are self-driving, replace the taxi cost with fuel cost. The round trip from Leh to Diskit and back is about 240 km. At roughly Rs 100 per liter for petrol and average mileage of 12 km/l for an SUV, that works out to about Rs 2,000 in fuel. For bikers, fuel efficiency is better, so you can expect around Rs 600 to Rs 800 for the round trip on a Royal Enfield.
For a more comprehensive budget calculation for your entire Ladakh trip, check the Leh Ladakh trip budget calculator.
What About Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) When Visiting Nubra?
This is very important, my friend. To reach Diskit from Leh, you must cross Khardung La at about 17,582 ft. Even though Diskit itself is at a lower altitude (10,300 ft), the crossing over Khardung La can trigger AMS symptoms if you have not acclimatized properly in Leh. Symptoms can range from mild headache and nausea to severe cases of bleeding nostrils and vomiting.
I always suggest spending at least 2 full days in Leh for acclimatization before heading to Nubra Valley. Do not rush. Drink plenty of water, avoid alcohol, walk slowly, and do not exert yourself on the first day in Leh. If you develop a persistent headache, consult a doctor immediately. There is a hospital in Diskit town, but for serious cases, Leh is the nearest city with proper medical facilities. Hence, it is always better to be safe and acclimatize properly rather than rushing through your itinerary.
For a detailed guide on AMS, its symptoms, prevention, and treatment, please read Acute Mountain Sickness and the Importance of Acclimatization.
What Are the Other Important Travel Tips?
Fuel Availability
Diskit has a petrol pump (Indian Oil) that remains operational year-round, including in winter months. So you can rely on it for fuel, especially if you are planning to extend your trip to Turtuk or Panamik. However, I always suggest keeping your tank at least half full when traveling in Ladakh, because you never know when a road closure or unexpected detour might come up. For detailed information on all petrol pumps across Ladakh, check the fuel availability in Leh Ladakh guide.
ATM and Cash
There is no ATM in Diskit or Hunder. Carry enough cash from Leh for your entire Nubra Valley trip. Most homestays and smaller eateries do not accept UPI or card payments. Budget hotels and a few upscale properties may accept digital payments, but do not count on it. I suggest carrying at least Rs 3,000 to Rs 5,000 per person in cash for a 2-day Nubra trip.
Mobile Network Connectivity
As of 2026, mobile connectivity in Diskit and Hunder has improved significantly. BSNL postpaid has the widest coverage and works well in Diskit, Hunder, and even up to Panamik. Airtel postpaid now offers 4G data in Diskit and Hunder, which is a big improvement from a few years ago. Jio also provides 3G to 4G connectivity in Diskit and Hunder, though it may not work beyond that towards Turtuk.
Prepaid connections generally do not work in Ladakh. If you want connectivity in remote areas, a BSNL postpaid SIM is still your best bet. Phone signals fade out as you climb Khardung La and return only when you descend into Nubra Valley.
For a detailed breakdown of which network works where, check my guide on mobile connectivity in Leh Ladakh.
What to Pack for Nubra Valley
Even in summer, the temperature can drop sharply at night in Nubra Valley. Here is a quick packing list:
- Warm layers (fleece jacket, windcheater, thermals for evenings)
- Sunscreen (SPF 50+) and sunglasses (UV protection is critical at high altitude)
- Comfortable walking shoes for the monastery hike
- Personal medicines and Diamox (consult your doctor before the trip)
- A torch/flashlight for nighttime in homestays
- Cash (no ATM in Nubra Valley, carry from Leh)
- A good camera (the views demand it!)
- Lip balm and moisturizer (the dry air cracks your lips fast)
- Power bank (electricity can be unreliable in remote homestays)
For a comprehensive packing checklist, check the list of things to carry on a Himalayan trip.
Nubra to Pangong Tso Direct Route
If your Ladakh itinerary includes both Nubra Valley and Pangong Tso, you can take the direct route from Nubra to Pangong via Shyok instead of returning to Leh. This saves you a full day of backtracking. The road is adventurous and scenic but can be rough in patches, especially near the Agham-Shyok stretch. I have written a separate guide on this route with all the key tips and road conditions.
Check out the Nubra Valley to Pangong Tso direct route tips for details on this road.
Video on Nubra Valley Sightseeing
How to Plan a 2-3 Day Itinerary for Nubra Valley?
Most travelers cover Diskit and Hunder as a 2-day trip from Leh. But if you have the time, I strongly recommend a 3-day itinerary that includes Turtuk. Here is a sample plan:
2-Day Nubra Itinerary (Diskit + Hunder)
Day 1: Leh to Diskit via Khardung La (120 km, 5-6 hours). Visit Diskit Monastery and Maitreya Buddha statue in the afternoon. Stay overnight in Diskit or Hunder.
Day 2: Explore Hunder sand dunes and Bactrian camel ride in the morning. Drive back to Leh via Khardung La. Reach Leh by evening.
3-Day Nubra Itinerary (Diskit + Hunder + Turtuk)
Day 1: Leh to Diskit via Khardung La. Visit Diskit Monastery. Stay in Diskit/Hunder.
Day 2: Drive to Turtuk (90 km from Diskit, about 3 hours). Explore Turtuk village, its Balti heritage, and the museum. Return to Hunder by evening for the sand dunes and camel ride at sunset. Stay in Hunder.
Day 3: Drive back to Leh via Khardung La. Alternatively, take the direct route to Pangong Tso via Shyok (if Pangong is next on your itinerary).
Diskit Monastery Photography Tips
If you enjoy photography, Diskit Monastery offers some of the most stunning frames in all of Ladakh. Here are a few practical tips:
- Best light: Visit in the morning (7-9 AM) when the soft golden light hits the monastery and the Maitreya Buddha statue. The afternoon light is harsh and creates strong shadows.
- Panoramic views: The best panoramic shot of Nubra Valley is from the monastery courtyard, looking towards Diskit village and the sand dunes beyond.
- Maitreya statue: For a dramatic low-angle shot, stand at the base of the statue looking up against the blue sky. Sunset light on the golden statue is also spectacular.
- No photography inside: Remember, photography is strictly not allowed inside the prayer hall (Dukhang) and museum. Respect this rule.
- Monks: Always ask permission before photographing monks. Most are friendly and will agree, but it is about respect.
- Night sky: If you are staying in Hunder, the night sky in Nubra Valley is incredible for astrophotography. There is almost zero light pollution.
Related Reading
Here are some other articles that will help you plan your Nubra Valley and Ladakh trip:
- Nubra Valley Sightseeing and Travel Guide
- Most Common Itinerary for Leh Ladakh
- Ladakh Inner Line Permits Online
- Leh Ladakh Taxi Rates
- Nubra Valley to Pangong Tso Direct Route Tips
- 7 Useful Tips for a Self-Drive to Leh Ladakh
Conclusion
Since the construction of the 106 ft Maitreya Buddha statue, the Diskit Monastery has seen a multifold increase in footfall. Visit here for the night sky, the panoramic views of the cold desert, the ancient frescoes inside the Gompa, and most importantly, for the inner peace that this centuries-old monastery offers. You can cover the Diskit Monastery trip along with other Nubra Valley sightseeing places like Hunder, Sumur, Panamik, and Turtuk as a 2-3 day trip from Leh.
I hope this travel guide for visiting Diskit Monastery in Nubra Valley helps you plan a successful trip to this remarkable place in Ladakh. If you have any questions or need help with your itinerary, feel free to ask in the comments section below or post your query in the DwD Community. I will be happy to help 🙂 …
If you know your friends or family are planning a trip to Nubra Valley and Ladakh, do share this article with them to help them plan better. You can also check the DoW Travel Calendar from the main menu of the website for upcoming trips and meets.
Last Updated: February 2026
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the entry fee for Diskit Monastery?
The entry fee for Diskit Monastery is Rs 30 per person as of 2026. The monastery is open daily from 7:00 AM to 1:00 PM and 2:00 PM to 7:00 PM with a one-hour lunch break. There is no separate fee for visiting the Maitreya Buddha statue area.
How far is Diskit Monastery from Leh?
Diskit Monastery is approximately 120 km from Leh via Khardung La Pass. The drive takes about 5 to 6 hours depending on road conditions and traffic. The route passes through South Pullu, Khardung La, North Pullu, Khardung Village, and Khalsar before reaching Diskit.
Is an Inner Line Permit required to visit Diskit?
Yes, domestic Indian tourists need an Inner Line Permit (ILP) to visit Nubra Valley, which includes Diskit. The permit can be applied for online at lahdclehpermit.in. The total cost is approximately Rs 500 to Rs 560 per person for a 2-3 day trip, covering the environment fee, wildlife fee, and ILP charges.
What is the best time to visit Diskit Monastery?
The best time to visit is May to September, when the weather is pleasant and both road routes to Ladakh are open. September is particularly good for fewer crowds and autumn colors. For a unique cultural experience, you can also visit during the Dosmoche Festival in February, though you will need to fly into Leh during winter.
Is photography allowed inside Diskit Monastery?
Photography is not allowed inside the prayer hall (Dukhang) and the museum at Diskit Monastery. You can take photographs outside, including at the Maitreya Buddha statue, the Chortens, and the courtyard area. Always ask for permission before photographing any monk.
How much does a taxi from Leh to Diskit cost?
A 2-day return taxi from Leh to Diskit and Hunder costs approximately Rs 10,000 to Rs 13,000 as of 2026. If you extend to Turtuk, the 3-day rate is around Rs 14,000 to Rs 17,000. These are official Leh taxi union rates. If you are traveling in a group of 4, the per-person cost works out to Rs 2,500 to Rs 3,250.
Is there mobile network in Diskit and Hunder?
Yes, as of 2026, BSNL postpaid, Airtel postpaid (4G), and Jio (3G/4G) all work in Diskit and Hunder. BSNL has the widest coverage in Nubra Valley extending up to Panamik. Prepaid SIMs generally do not work in Ladakh. Carry a BSNL postpaid SIM for the most reliable connectivity.
Can I visit Diskit Monastery in winter?
Yes, the monastery remains open in winter and the road from Leh to Nubra via Khardung La is generally drivable year-round. However, conditions can be icy and extremely cold (temperatures drop to minus 20 degrees Celsius). You can only reach Leh by flight in winter since the highways from Manali and Srinagar close from November to May. Accommodation options are very limited in winter with only a few homestays operational.
2 Comments
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Impressive 106 feet long statue of the Jampa (Maitreya) Buddha facing the Shyok River on top of a hill below the monastery is a must visit.
have a nice day
Hi sir, just wanted to ask something. I am solo traveler and wanted to go on a winter snowy trek or maybe a valley. Can you suggest few? Like someone told it’s not safe to do kedarkantha without a company right now. Where should i go to.
I was very much willing to go to the jalori pass in tirthan valley. I read your guide as well. I want to ask is it safe going to the pass this week? Or the pass may ne closed altho jibhi will remain open but about the jalori pass?
Please help sir.