Key Monastery

Key Monastery (also spelled Kye or Ki) is a Tibetan Buddhist gompa in the Spiti Valley of Himachal Pradesh, India, that functions as a religious training centre and residence for monks. It is one of the principal monasteries in Spiti and occupies a prominent hilltop location overlooking the valley.

The complex is notable for its compact, multi-level arrangement of temples, assembly halls and living quarters built into a rocky ridge, with interiors housing murals, statues and thangkas. Visitors go to see the monastery complex itself and for sweeping valley views rather than extensive museum displays.

Historically the site is traditionally dated to the early second millennium and the monastery has been rebuilt and expanded several times following fires and earthquakes. Over centuries it has served as a local monastic seat and a centre of learning for the surrounding Buddhist communities.

Key Monastery stands above the Spiti River valley in Lahaul and Spiti district, Himachal Pradesh; it is reached by mountain roads from the town of Kaza and other Spiti settlements, with access most reliable between late spring and early autumn due to winter snow.

• Seasonal access: Sits above the Spiti Valley at high altitude, making access seasonal; roads are typically open and easiest to use from late spring through early autumn.
• Architecture and art: Known for its stacked, fortified gompa architecture with narrow passageways and assembly halls containing thangkas and painted murals.