Religious/ Spiritual

Jakholi Temple

Location

Another awe inspiring allure in Arki is the Jakholi Temple. Large gathering, both devotees and casual visitors, frequents this lovely shrine. Dedicated to mother goddess Jakholi temple represents the Shikhara style of architecture. It is one of the triple temples in Arki, which shares equal credentials with the other Shiva temples.

A rare specimen of artistic excellence, this temple attracts both devotees and tourists alike. While devotees cherish in the serene and tranquil ambiance of the temple,the tourists enjoy the pleasant sceneries and craggy terrain.

Durga Temple

Location

One among the long familiar temples in Arki, Durga temple stands in parallel terms with the Luturu temple. Nestled in between the lofty peaks, this temple provides an ideal retreat for those who wish to be in absolute serenity.

As the name suggests, the temple is dedicated to Durga Devi, the mother goddess. Annual fair in the temple is celebrated during Ashtami in Navratras, which falls in the month of September or October. Though the temple is frequented by large number of devotees during the annual fair, the temple would be jam packed with Durga devotees.

Bhadrakali Temple

Location

Built in the year 1650, Bhadrakali Temple in Arki shows excellent carvings and amazing structural works. It is one among the triple temples that is constructed in the Shikhara style architecture.

This temple is also known as Jakholi Devi Temple. The presiding deity is Kali, the ferocious incarnation of Durga devi. Bhadrakali temple is considered as one of the Sakhtipeeths of the entire state of Himachal. The popular belief is that the goddess would fulfill all the dreams of the devotees and it is quite sure that the holy darshan would provide one with a blissful heart.

Dhankar Monastery

Location

This monastery is located 25 km away from Kaza in the village by the same name (Dhankar). The monastery houses a statue of "Vairochana" which shows 4 complete figures of Buddha seated back to back. Also, in possession of the monastery are some Buddhist scriptures, paintings and sculptures. Around 100 lamas live in this monastery.
Dhankar is a big village and erstwhile capital of Spiti Kingdom. On top of a hill there is a fort which use to be the prison in olden times. The Monastery has about 100 Lamas and is in position of Budhist scriptures in Bhoti language. Principal figure is a Statue of " Vairochana" (Dhayan Budha) consisting of 4 complete figures seated back to back. It has relics in the shape of paintings and sculptures.

Kye monastery

Location

Kye monastery is situated 12 kms. north of Kaza and serves the western population of Spiti. It is the oldest and biggest monastery of the valley and located at (4116 m) above Kye village. It houses beautiful scriptures and paintings of Budha and other goddesses. Lamas practice dance, sing and play on pipes and horns. Many Lamas get religious training here. It has murals and books of high aesthetic value.

Large Temple of Dromton (Brom-ston Lha khang)

Location

The second largest temple in the complex, this has a floor area of over 70 sq mtr, while the portico and niche add another 42 sq mtr. The front wall has the figure of Sakyamuni flanked by Sariputra and Maha Maugdalayana. The outer walls depicts Buddha and Guardian Kings. A small portico and long passage leads to its hall. The doorway is intricately carved and the inner walls are covered with murals. It lies on the northern edge of the complex and is regarded to have been founded by Dromton, an important disciple of Atisha, durind 10th century AD.