Dhankar

Dhankar is a village in the Spiti valley of Himachal Pradesh, India. It lies along the Spiti River and is known for two major landmarks: Dhankar Monastery (Gompa) and Dhankar Fort, both perched on dramatic cliff faces overlooking the village. The monastery is one of the oldest in the Spiti region, with its origins traditionally dated to around the 11th century. The complex houses a temple, assembly hall, and a collection of wall paintings and religious artifacts, and is still inhabited by a small community of monks. The nearby Dhankar Fort sits atop a steep outcrop above the village and once served as the seat of the rulers of Spiti; today it is largely in ruins but remains a prominent feature of the landscape.

Geography and access: Dhankar is part of the high-altitude Spiti valley and is connected by road to Kaza, the region’s main town. The area experiences extreme winter conditions and roads can be shut due to snow.

Culture and tourism: The site is a major draw for visitors seeking historical architecture, high-altitude scenery, and photography. The monastery complex retains traditional Tibetan Buddhist architectural style, and the surrounding area offers trekking routes, including a popular ascent to Dhankar Lake above the village.

Conservation: The monastery and fort have been the focus of restoration and preservation efforts by local authorities and heritage organizations to protect the site’s murals and stonework.