Snapshots
Nestled amidst the heart of the Himalayas, the Lamayuru village in Ladakh is a geological gem. Boasting of the most stunning rugged terrains, breathtaking scenic beauty, rich culture and an unparalleled historical legacy, Lamayuru is also known as the ‘moonland’ of India due to its resemblance to the lunar surface.
Among the most fascinating places to visit in Ladakh, Lamayuru is an offbeat destination in Leh & Ladakh that is renowned for its otherworldly charm and ethereal beauty. A true haven for nature lovers and photographers, Lamayuru is among the rare destinations in the world that features such a surreal landscape. An enchanting part of Ladakh, once you have been to the moon land of Leh, the experience lingers within your soul. Embrace the mystical spirit of Ladakh with this ultimate guide to exploring the beauty of Lamayuru.
When is the best time to visit Lamayuru?
If you are planning to visit the Lamayuru village with an aim towards exploring the landscape of the moonland of Leh Ladakh, or visiting the Lamayuru Monastery, the best time to plan your trip is during the summer months. The months between May to September is the best time to visit Lamayuru since during this time the weather conditions are pleasant, and the roads are also accessible, which in turn would make your visit a comfortable one with easy access to the monastery and other attractions in Lamayuru.
How to reach Lamayuru?
Lamayuru is located on the Leh-Srinagar Highway, which is situated at a distance of 136 km from Leh and can be travelled to via car. You can also opt for state run buses from Srinagar or Leh.
Other travel options include by air or rail. The nearest airport to Lamayuru is the Kushok Rimpochee Airport in Leh, which is located at a 2 hours drive from Lamayuru. Although Lamayuru does not have a railway station, you can take a train to Jammu and then travel via road.
Here’s a complete guide for you to discover the incredible beauty and uniqueness of Lamayuru
1. Lamayuru Monastery
Boasting of ancient walls and colourful prayer flags that transports you back in time, the Lamayuru Monastery in Leh embodies the stories of a beautiful past. With a rich Lamayuru Monastery history, this place is known to be established in the 10th century and is among the oldest and largest Buddist monasteries in Ladakh. Featuring beautiful frescoes, statues, and carpets for meditation purposes, this place also offers you panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes due to its height.
A major attraction of the Lamayuru Monastery is the two day festival known as the Yuru Kabgyat which features mask dances and other events as a part of the celebrations. To be able to witness this festival becomes a major source of learning about the culture and the Lamayuru Monastery history.
2. Explore Moonland
A surreal landscape that is known for its unique terrains, Moon land Leh is a truly extraordinary sight behold. A kind of landscape that is naturally created by geological formations, the Moonland in Leh Ladakh has been formed by the winds and due to processes like water erosion. A place that offers you an otherworldly experience, Moonland in Leh Ladakh is truly a landscape like no other. Known for its uncanny resemblance to the surface of the moon, the Moon land Leh truly creates the most stunning visual spectacle for you to witness.
3. Trek to the Lamayuru-Alchi Route
Boasting of Lamayur’s rugged beauty, trekking across the Lamayuru-Alchi route is truly one of the most rewarding experiences to take part in. Among the top things to do in Lamayuru, this popular trekking trail connects two very historic villages of the region. Taking place through a span of 3-4 days, the Lamayuru-Alchi trek passes through various remote villages and ancient monasteries, while also offering you the most beautiful sights of the surrounding alpine meadows. Although a little physically challenging, venturing out on this trek is something that spirituality rejuvenates and makes you feel like you have stepped into the terrains of another world altogether.
4. Photography tour of Lamayuru
If you are photography enthusiast, then taking part in the photography tour is among the best things to do in Lamayuru. A guided photography tour that perfectly captures the beauty of Lamayuru, taking part in the photography tour also lets you learn about the culture and the landscapes of the region. An exciting thing to do in Lamayuru, this tour is led by professional photographers and enlightens the participants about the various techniques and skills related to photography. Capturing the beauty of the landscapes is sure to leave you with some of the most breathtaking images and a ton of memories.
5. Wanla Monastery
A historic Buddhist monastery in the Wanla village, visiting the Wanla Monastery is a must while in Lamayuru. A three storey temple that features large clay sculptures, beautiful murals and manuscript papers, the artworks of this particular are so rich that they are even considered to be one of the earliest encyclopedic monuments of Tibet. The main highlighting factor of this monastery is the clay statues that represent the eleven headed form of Avalokitesvara.