Diskit Monastery (Diskit Gompa) is the oldest and largest monastery in the Nubra Valley of Ladakh, India. It is located in the village of Diskit, overlooking the Shyok River.

Key Facts

• Location: Nubra Valley

• Distance from Leh: About 115 km north of Leh

• Founded: 14th century

• Founder: Changzem Tserab Zangpo, a disciple of Je Tsongkhapa

• Sect: Gelugpa (Yellow Hat school of Tibetan Buddhism)

Famous Attraction

The monastery is famous for the 32-meter (106 ft) tall statue of Maitreya Buddha, which faces toward Pakistan.
This statue symbolizes peace and protection for the region.

In Ladakhi and Tibetan Buddhism, “Chamba” means Maitreya, the future Buddha who is believed will appear on Earth to bring peace and enlightenment.

What You Can See

• Ancient prayer hall and murals

• Old Buddhist scriptures

• Large drum and statues of guardian deities

• Beautiful panoramic view of Nubra Valley sand dunes

Festival

The monastery hosts the Dosmoche Festival, where monks perform sacred mask dances (Cham dance) every winter.

✅ Best time to visit: May – September
✅ Altitude: Around 3,144 meters (10,315 ft)