In the INDIAN district of Lahual Spiti , there is a settlement as well as a GOMPA, a Buddhist Temple . It is located above DHANKAR VILLAGE in th SPITI valley , between the towns of KAZA and TABO , at an elevation of 3900Mtrs.
The complex is situated on 1000-foot high spur overlooking the Spiti and Pin Rivers confluence, making it one of the most stunning Gompa sites in the world .
During the 17th century , Dhankar was the historic capital of the SPITI valley kingdom, with certain elements dating back to the 12 century.
It was the seat of the Nonos, the first ruler of SPITI, who had the right to cultivate the government land nearby and were obligated to keep the fort in good order. They also served as a source of justice for the people , and were known for their harsh punishments until they were superseded by the British.
DHANKAR is accessible through a motorable road , suitable mainly for small vehicles, which splits off from the major KAZA-Samdu route roughly 24KM's from KAZA. Up to DHANKAR , the branch road is 8Km long
A statue of vairocana consisting of four figures seated back to back as well as several decaying thangkas , are remarkable sights at DHANKAR GOMPA, aside from the surrounding bleak , lunar terrain .In the Gompa , there is a little museum.
DHANKAR GOMPA was named one of the world;s 100 most endangered sites by the WORLD MONUMENTS FUND in 2006.
