On the quieter left-bank road between Kullu and Naggar, the village of Kais hides one of the valley's most peaceful spots: the Dhakpo Shedrupling Monastery, usually just called Kais Monastery. It's an easy, rewarding stop — whether you're heading into Kullu for the day or arriving in Naggar from the airport at Bhuntar.
A little history
Kais Monastery belongs to the Gelugpa school of Tibetan Buddhism — the tradition led by His Holiness the Dalai Lama — and was inaugurated by him in May 2005. It functions as a monastic school and centre for the study of Buddhist philosophy, and is home to a community of Tibetan monks. A statue of Je Tsongkhapa, founder of the Gelugpa school, sits at the front of the main prayer hall.
What to see
- The prayer hall: bright murals, thangkas and statues, with rows of cushions where monks gather for chanting.
- Prayer wheels: walk the circuit clockwise and spin them as you go, as the locals do.
- Monastic life: if you're lucky you may see young monks at debate practice in the courtyard — lively, animated, with plenty of hand-claps.
- The setting: the monastery looks across the Beas valley, framed by pine-covered slopes — a lovely spot for quiet reflection.
Practical information
- Location: Kais village, about 10 km from Kullu bus stand on the left-bank road, near the Beas.
- From Naggar: roughly a 30–40 minute drive south along the left-bank road toward Kullu. Local buses on this route also pass nearby.
- Timings: generally open during daylight hours; morning is best for the calm and for catching prayers. Timings can vary on festival days.
- Entry: no ticket; donations are welcome.
- Time needed: 45 minutes to an hour.
Etiquette
- Dress modestly and remove shoes before entering the prayer hall.
- Walk clockwise around the monastery, stupas and prayer wheels.
- Keep your voice low and ask before photographing monks or the interior.
- Don't sit with your feet pointing toward the altar or statues.
Make a day of it
Kais combines well with a visit to Kullu town and the Raghunath temple, or with a walk in the Kais Wildlife Sanctuary area for birding. On the way back to Naggar, stop for fresh apple juice from roadside orchards in season.
If you're looking for a base in Naggar, Ghar in the Hills is a cozy homestay right in the village — wake up to valley views and keep the left-bank's quieter gems within easy reach.
Slow down in the valley
Kais Monastery is proof that some of the Kullu valley's best experiences are the quiet ones. Add it to your itinerary, and book your stay at Ghar in the Hills for a slower, more soulful trip.