Diskit Monastery in Ladakh & Umba La Pass Travel Guide 2025: How to Reach, Best Time & Top Things to Do

Ladakh, the land of high passes, never ceases to amaze travelers with its mix of spiritual heritage, breathtaking landscapes, and offbeat adventure trails. Whether you’re seeking inner peace or an adrenaline rush, Ladakh offers something magical for everyone. Tucked away in the stunning Nubra Valley and surrounded by dramatic mountain vistas is one of the region’s most iconic spiritual sites.

Let’s begin our journey with one of Ladakh’s most revered and photogenic sites—Diskit Monastery in Ladakh, known for its giant Maitreya Buddha statue and panoramic views of the Nubra Valley. This ancient monastery is not only a place of worship but also a cultural and historical treasure trove that attracts spiritual seekers and explorers alike.

Whether you’re on a solo adventure or planning a family trip to Ladakh, visiting Diskit Monastery is an unforgettable experience that deserves a top spot on your itinerary.

Introduction to Diskit Monastery: The Heart of Nubra Valley

Diskit Monastery, also known as Deskit Gompa, is the oldest and largest monastery in the Nubra Valley. Belonging to the Gelugpa (Yellow Hat) sect of Tibetan Buddhism, the monastery is believed to have been founded in the 14th century by Changzem Tserab Zangpo, a disciple of Tsongkhapa.

Perched high on a hill overlooking the Shyok River, Diskit Monastery is renowned for its peaceful ambiance, stunning surroundings, and of course, the towering 32-meter-high statue of Maitreya Buddha that sits just below the monastery.

How to Reach Diskit Monastery

  • By Road from Leh: The most common route is via the Khardung La Pass. It takes around 5-6 hours to drive from Leh to Diskit.

  • Public Transport: Shared taxis and local buses ply from Leh to Diskit, especially during the tourist season.

  • Private Cab or Bike: Ideal for flexibility and scenic halts en route, especially for photographers.

Make sure to stop at Khardung La, one of the highest motorable passes in the world, to acclimatize and enjoy the views.

Best Time to Visit Diskit Monastery

The ideal time to visit Diskit Monastery is from May to September, when the roads are clear and the weather is pleasant. July and August are particularly beautiful due to the vibrant green landscapes of the Nubra Valley.

The monastery is also the site of the annual Dosmoche Festival, a two-day celebration held in February, where traditional masked dances and rituals are performed by the monks. However, visiting during winter requires extra preparation due to snow and freezing temperatures.

Top Things to Do at Diskit Monastery

  • Explore the Monastery: Wander through the prayer halls, admire ancient murals, and observe monks in prayer.

  • Visit the Maitreya Buddha Statue: Take in panoramic views of the Nubra Valley from the base of this massive statue.

  • Attend a Prayer Session: Get a glimpse of traditional Tibetan Buddhist rituals.

  • Photography: With its dramatic backdrop, Diskit is a photographer’s paradise.

  • Cultural Interaction: Speak with monks or locals to gain insights into Ladakhi life and Buddhist philosophy.

Nearby Attractions

  • Hunder Sand Dunes: Famous for Bactrian camel rides.

  • Turtuk Village: A culturally rich Balti village near the Indo-Pak border.

  • Panamik Hot Springs: Soothing thermal springs believed to have healing properties.

  • Khardung La Pass: An essential stopover for anyone visiting Nubra from Leh.

Accommodation in Diskit

Diskit offers a variety of stay options, including:

  • Guesthouses & Homestays: Local homes offer a more immersive cultural experience.

  • Hotels: Budget to mid-range hotels with basic amenities.

  • Campsites: Especially near Hunder, for a rustic Ladakhi experience.

Always book ahead in peak season to ensure availability and better rates.

Umba La Pass in Ladakh: Offbeat Adventure Awaits

For those seeking more rugged adventures, head towards the remote and spectacular Umba La Pass in Ladakh. Connecting Drass in Kargil to the Suru and Zanskar Valleys, this high-altitude mountain pass is not for the faint-hearted but rewards the bold with pristine beauty and solitude.

Situated at an altitude of around 4,496 meters, Umba La offers a thrilling drive or bike ride through remote terrain, snow patches, and raw Himalayan landscapes. It remains less traveled, making it perfect for those wanting to explore beyond the usual tourist circuits.

How to Reach Umba La Pass

  • By Road from Kargil: The pass connects Kargil to the Suru Valley. A 4x4 vehicle is recommended due to rough roads.

  • Via Drass: Another approach to Umba La is through Drass, the second coldest inhabited place on Earth.

Ensure you have local guidance and fuel up before the journey, as facilities are minimal.

Best Time to Visit Umba La Pass

The best time to visit Umba La Pass in Ladakh is from June to September, when the snow has melted and roads are accessible. Even during summer, weather can be unpredictable, so always check forecasts before heading out.

Avoid monsoon months and winter due to potential landslides and snow-blocked routes.

Things to Do at Umba La Pass

  • Adventure Photography: Capture stark and untouched Himalayan scenery.

  • Bike Touring: Ideal for experienced riders looking for extreme terrain.

  • Nature Observation: Spot rare Himalayan flora and fauna.

  • Camping: Pitch a tent in the wilderness for a true off-grid experience.

  • Village Exploration: Visit remote villages en route for local food and stories.

Travel Tips for Visiting Both Sites

  • Acclimatization is Key: Both Diskit and Umba La are high-altitude locations. Spend a few days in Leh before heading out.

  • Travel Insurance: Always have insurance that covers high-altitude trekking or driving.

  • Carry Cash: ATMs are rare in remote regions.

  • Pack Wisely: Thermal wear, power banks, medicines, and ID proofs are essentials.

  • Stay Eco-Conscious: Follow the “Leave No Trace” principle. Avoid plastic, support local businesses.

Suggested Itinerary

Day 1-2: Arrive in Leh and acclimatize.

Day 3: Travel to Nubra Valley via Khardung La. Stay overnight in Diskit.

Day 4: Explore Diskit Monastery, Hunder Sand Dunes.

Day 5: Return to Leh.

Day 6: Head to Kargil.

Day 7: Day trip to Umba La Pass or camp overnight.

Day 8: Return to Leh or continue exploring Zanskar.

Final Thoughts

A journey through Diskit Monastery in Ladakh and over the rugged Umba La Pass in Ladakh is more than a travel plan—it’s a transformational experience that brings together history, culture, and raw Himalayan adventure.

As more travelers look beyond typical tourist paths, Ladakh’s remote corners like these offer authenticity and immersion that’s hard to match. Whether you seek spiritual solace or off-road excitement, let this part of Ladakh guide you into the unexplored.

Pack your curiosity, respect the land and people, and embark on a trip that leaves footprints on your soul—not just the mountains.

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