Spituk Monastery Spituk Monastery was founded in the 11th century by Od-de, a disciple of the great translator Rinchen Zangpo. Initially, it belonged to the Kadampa School of Tibetan Buddhism, but later it came under the influence of the Gelugpa (Yellow Hat) Sect introduced by Tsongkhapa in the 15th century. The name Spituk means “exemplary,” referring to the exemplary religious community established here. Over the centuries, it has become an important center of learning, meditation, and cultural activities in Ladakh. Spituk Monastery is a Buddhist monastery in Western end of Leh in Ladakh on Leh-Kargil-Srinagar highway, about 6 km from the main town. Above the monastery, on the hilltop, The Spituk monastery is close to the Leh airfield and west to Hall of Fame. It offers panoramic view of entire Leh town. One can also see Shanti Stupa, Leh Palace and Namgyal Tsemo Monastery from here. The site of Spituk was blessed by the Arhat Nyimagung. It was founded by Od-de, the elder brother of Lha Lama Changchub Od when he came to Maryul in the 11th Century. He introduced the monastic community. 
When Lotsewa Rinchen Zangpo (Translator) came to that place he said that an exemplary religious community would arise there and so the monastery was called Spituk (exemplary). During the time of Dharma raja Gragspa Bum-Ide the monastery was restored by Lama Lhawang Lodos and the stainless order of Tsonkhapa was introduced and it has remained intact as such till present. 
The monastery contains 100 monks and a giant statue of Palden Lhamo and other deities a which are unveiled during the annual Spituk festival. Otherwise the idol remains covered with a cloth. Gustor Festival is held at Spituk from the 27th to 29th day in the eleventh month of the Tibetan calendar every year. How to reach Spituk Monastery The Spituk Gompa can be seen from almost everywhere from Leh town, so reaching here should not be a difficult task. However, it is nearly 6km from the main town. If you follow Leh-Srinagar highway, it appears in the left hand side, with a 100m long link road taking you to the parking in the base of the monastery. Best time to visit Spituk Monastery Being located in the Leh town, you can easily get access to the gompa 12 months in a year. 
Spituk Monastery (Gompa): A stunning Gelug-pa (Yellow Hat) monastery situated on a hilltop, housing around 100 monks. 
Gonkhang/LhamoKhang Temple: Located at the top, this temple features a grand idol of Goddess Palden Lhamo and other Deities, famous for revealing its face only during the annual festival. Spituk Gustor Festival: Held in January or February, this two-day festival showcases the sacred ‘Cham’ dance (masked dance) by monks. 
Main Assembly Hall (Dukhang): Features a high throne for the Dalai Lama, statues of Amitayus, and ancient thangkas (scroll paintings). Dolma Lakhang: A smaller temple housing 21 statues of Goddess Tara. Panoramic Views: Incredible views of the Indus River and the surrounding snow-capped peaks. Nearby Attractions: Include the Hall of Fame Museum, Leh Palace, and the Magnetic Hill
