15 stunning facts about Lamayuru in Ladakh

Lamayuru is a small village located in the Ladakh region of Jammu and Kashmir, India. It is known for its ancient Buddhist monastery, which is one of the largest and oldest monasteries in Ladakh. The monastery is perched on a hill overlooking the village and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

Ladakh is known for its stunning natural beauty, with landscapes consisting of rugged mountains, deep valleys, sparkling lakes, and vast barren stretches. The region is home to several famous tourist destinations, including Leh, the largest town and capital of Ladakh.

Name

It is also famous for its unique lunar-like landscapes, often referred to as the “Moonland of Ladakh.” These barren, eroded rock formations create a surreal and otherworldly atmosphere, attracting a large number of tourists and photographers.

Location

Due to its remote location and picturesque beauty, the village has become a popular destination for trekkers and adventurers. There are several trekking routes that pass through the village, allowing visitors to explore the rugged beauty of the Himalayas and experience the local culture.

Ladakh attracts visitors from around the world, who come to experience its rugged beauty, engage in adventure activities like trekking, river rafting, and mountain biking, and explore its rich cultural heritage. 

Attractions

In addition to its natural and cultural attractions, the village hosts an annual festival called the “Yuru Kabgyat” in the month of July. This colorful festival features traditional dances, rituals, and mask performances, attracting both locals and tourists.

Overall, the village offers a unique blend of stunning landscapes, ancient Buddhist heritage, and adventure opportunities, making it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking a unique experience in the Himalayas.

Facts about Lamayuru

1. Lamayuru or Lamayouro village is situated at 11,520 ft (3,510 metres) in Leh district, Ladakh, India. 

2. It is part of the Dri-Gungpa sector in western Ladakh, India.

3. It (the Monastery) is known as Yuru Monastery “Eternal Monastry” which is a Tibetan Buddhist monastery in Leh, Ladakh, India.

4. It was founded in the 11^th century by Mahasiddacarya Naropa. He laid the foundation stone of this Monastery. (It is believed that his prayers caused drying up a lake that fed an entire village; and because the water receded, the place started to get moonlike craters.)

5. Seng-ge-sgang is a temple at the southern end of the Lamayuru rock, which is attributed to the famous builder: – “Monk Rinchen Zangpo”.

6. It is one of the largest and oldest gompas (Tibetan Monastery) in Ladakh, with a population of around 150 permanent monks’ resident.

7. The village is a “Lunar” (Moon land) Landscape structure. It is also known as a “Moonscape” for peoples who come here to explore this place.

8. The Monastery is a serene place of antique designs, enchanting sights, and devoted monks. 

9. “Yuru Kabgyat” is the annual festival of the Monastery. Mask dance by the lamas is the highlight of the festival.

10. An important ritual followed during the festival is the burning of effigies. It stands for destruction of the ego in every individual.

11. “Yuru Kabgyat” festival is celebrated in the second month of the Tibetan lunar calendar (June/July). When all monks gather together to pray.

12. The famous attraction near Lamayuru village is (Dukhang or Prayer Hall, Sengge Lhakhang Temple, Gonkhang Temple, Naropa’s Cave, Breathtaking views of the villages and mountains nearby etc.)

13. Lamayuru has several places where you can pitch your tent and camp overnight, such as Wanla, Hinju, and Lamayuru village.

14. Lamayuru village offers an opportunity to experience the traditional Ladakhi way of life and immerse oneself in the local culture.

15. Lamayuru village is 125 km from Leh and 305 km from Srinagar on the Leh-Srinagar Highway.

Text by Ashutosh Kumar