Jammu & Kashmir Monastero Spituk
Also known by the name of Spituk Gompa or Pethup Gompa, the Buddhist monastery of Monastero Spituk is well known for Gustor festival and unveiling of Kali idol. This monastery was incepted by Od-de, who is the elder brother of Lama Changchub Od, during the 11th century. Located near to the hills of Leh, the literary meaning of Spituk is exemplary. Originally, it was started off as an establishment of Red Hat, but in the latter years, probably in the 15th century, it was taken over by the Yellow Hat Sect. Situated at a height of about 3000 mts above sea level, the Monastero Spituk has a green surrounding and the Gokhang mountain range behind it, on which there is a shrine, with plenty of lamps.
History
Basic structure of the monastero Spituk was set up in the 11th century, primarily under the Buddhist sect of Kadampa School. Over the years, the followers of Dharmaraja Takspa Bum or Lde Lama Lhawang Lotus increased in strength and he established the Gelukpa sect of Buddhism in this same monastery. Lots of restoration work was done by him during this period. Presently also, it is the Gelukpa school of Buddhism, which rules the ceremonies and rituals inside Monastero Spituk. The head monks serving in this monastery are considered to be the successive reincarnations of Skyabsje Bakula Rinpoche, although Lord Buddha is the most revered deity inside the shrine. Origin of the festival of masks, which is the main feature of this monastery, is said to be due to mythological belief that spirits roam around in the region of the Monastero Spituk and the festival is celebrated to get rid of these spirits and seek blessings from the Shamams.
Festival
There is an annual festival of Gustor, during the eleventh month as per the Tibetan calendar, especially during the 27th till 29th days. It falls in the month of January, when people from the Leh-Ladakh region trek all the way up to the Monastero Spituk for being a part of the fun and dance which are the special attractions during the festival. On this occasion, people from all communities including old and young, locals and tourists, everyone will be wearing colourful masks and dance to folk music, as a mark to the beginning of the new year. During this new year annual Spituk festival, there is the unveiling of the giant Kali idol, which is marked by presence of thousands of devotees.
Architecture
Monastero Spituk comprises of three important shrines. One of the shrines contains the image sculpture of Lord Buddha while there is also a small finger length idol of Amitayus, which was presented by Tsongkhapa to Takspa Bum-Lde. Inside these shrines, rich collections of masks from ancient times, thankas, arms, antique items, etc are also found, apart from the scriptures and paintings related to Buddhism. Inside the main shrine, there is a throne, which is kept at the far end Dukhang, or the main temple, especially for the Dalai Lama. Door, behind the throne, leads to the old chapel. Inside this chapel, there is the image of Tsongkhapa, his disciples and Buddha.
Getting There
Spituk monastery is located at about 8 kms distance from town of Leh. Road communications are found in plenty in the region, leading up to Leh and visitors can book taxis and jeeps and some buses to travel to this location, any time of the year they like.
Photo Gallery
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