Just a short and scenic drive from The Alpinist Cafe and Retreat in Kaza lies one of Spiti Valley’s most mesmerizing treasures — the Dhankar Fort. Perched high above the valley at an altitude of 3,894 meters, this ancient fort and monastery sit proudly on a steep cliff, overlooking the confluence of the Spiti and Pin rivers. The name “Dhankar” itself comes from two words — ‘Dhan’ meaning cliff and ‘Kar’ meaning fort — together meaning “fort on a cliff.” And indeed, it is exactly that — a fort that seems to grow out of the rocks, standing tall and timeless.

The journey from Kaza to Dhankar is as beautiful as the destination itself. The winding mountain roads pass through small villages, fields of barley, and endless stretches of desert-like valleys. As you approach Dhankar, the sight of the fort clinging to the cliffside takes your breath away. It looks as though it’s guarding the valley — ancient, strong, and full of stories.

Once you climb up to the fort, you’ll be rewarded with some of the most spectacular views in all of Spiti. From the top, you can see the meeting point of the Spiti and Pin rivers, winding like silver threads through the mountains. The silence here feels powerful — only broken by the wind and the flutter of prayer flags.

Inside, the Dhankar Monastery is equally fascinating. Its old prayer rooms are filled with ancient murals, Buddhist scriptures, and statues of the Buddha. The monks here live simple lives, filled with kindness and wisdom, always welcoming visitors with warm smiles.

Dhankar is not just a place to see — it’s a place to feel. The golden light of the sun on the cliffs, the stillness of the valley below, and the peaceful energy of the monastery together create a sense of deep calm and wonder.

When you return to The Alpinist Cafe and Retreat, the warmth of your tea, the glow of the fire, and the memory of Dhankar’s breathtaking beauty will remind you why Spiti is truly called “The Middle Land of Heaven.”