Anand Mahindra in awe of ‘Heaven on Earth’ in India's Himachal Pradesh, wonders, 'why the whole world is not flocking here?'

Imagine a place so serene that even the busiest minds pause, and yet so hidden that most of the world hasn’t discovered it. Anand Mahindra recently shared his awe at Key Monastery in Spiti, calling it “Heaven on Earth” and wondering why more people don’t visit. Nestled in the stark, majestic landscapes of the Spiti Valley, this monastery offers not just spiritual solace but a deep dive into centuries of Tibetan Buddhist history, art, and culture, making it a must-see destination for travellers seeking peace and perspective.

Key Gompa, also known as the ‘Monastery at the Centre of the Mandala,’ is the largest monastery in Spiti and a vital spiritual hub. It houses the revered reincarnations of Lochen Rinchen Zangpo, the ‘Great Translator’ from 958–1055 AD, and maintains strong ties to the Kadampa lineage as the seat of the Lochen Tulkus. It is also linked to the legendary 11th-century saint Srijnana Dipankara Atisha.

Inside, the monastery dazzles with ancient wall hangings depicting Buddha’s former lifetimes. Across from the main assembly hall, a prayer room holds a massive prayer wheel and statues of Padmasambhava and Amitayus. A lower-level chapel honours protector deities, while another assembly hall is reserved for smaller rituals. The remains of the 17th Lochen Tulku, sacred scriptures, valuable wall hangings, and a statue of the future Buddha Maitreya are also preserved here.




Approximately 200 monks live at Key Monastery, receiving both secular and advanced religious education. The spiritual teachings aim to nurture their souls toward enlightenment while instilling a profound sense of purpose and fulfilment. Beyond its spiritual significance, Key Gompa captivates visitors with its stunning architecture, tranquil atmosphere, and the timeless silence that Anand Mahindra described as its greatest gift.

How to reach the monastery?

The Key Monastery is about 15 kilometres from Kaza. Visitors must first reach Kaza, whether coming from Manali or Shimla. Several buses run from both cities to Kaza, with the journey taking around 12 hours. From Kaza, private cabs are needed to reach the monastery, which takes about 40 minutes.