This monastery lies only 7 kms out of Leh and I decided to go there on my own.
Early in the morning I came to the bus station. Sorry – no bus to Spituk. Local people helped me to find the taxi driver ready for the round -trip. We negotiated the price: 250 rs for the round trip with waiting at gompa. 5 USD – not bad.
Soon I was climbing the monastery steps. Uff… I am still not adjusted to the altitude!
Spituk Gompa, built in 14th century is small place with few chapels on the different levels. Monk was praying. I was the only visitor. No picture problem – I just wanted to be discrete. In the top chapel there were like 30-40 oil lamps burning – great atmosphere.
On return to Leh I spent some time in the internet cafe. They have private generator and internet is today not “down” like yesterday. Lucky me! the charge 90 rs (less then 2 USD) per hour.
I am getting ready for the mountain road to Kashmir!
