Lamayaru the moon land of Ladakh ( india)

Why lamayaru in Ladakh called moon land

The place is often referred to as the “Moonland of Ladakh” because Moonlike landscapes are carved into the Greater Himalayas in this region of Ladakh. A small village in Ladakh, Lamayuru is an ideal place to take a break in the journey from Kargil to Leh

It is mesmerizing and unbelievable when you look at the unique landscape in Lamayuru. This is popularly known as the ‘Moonland of Ladakh’. It is found in Lamayuru which is a village located at approximately 100km driving distance from Leh, in Kargil Leh highway

What is the history of moon land

history dates back to the 11th century, when a scholar named Mahasiddhacharya Naropa 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

The landscapes on the way from Leh to Lamayuru are extraordinarily beautiful and we wanted to stop at so many places. Lamayuru is also famous for its very old monastery. Some parts are in good condition, other ruins are preserved well. There are few home stays here and one budget stay is right outside the monastery gate. Needless to say, the view is amazing from the monastery and one the way while going up to the monastery.

Places to visit in lamayaru

Lamayuru monastery is the main attraction here. It is one of the most intriguing places to visit for sure; being one of the oldest and largest monasteries in Ladakh, it has many stories and legends associated to it.

Originally, the monastery had five buildings, though now only the central building exists. Even after losing much of its valour, it still remains a favourite jaunt for photographers and inquisitive travellers.

This monastery houses around 150 Buddhist monks, though there used to be more than 400 earlier.

Fairs and festivals of Lamayaru

Thi s region is popular for two annual festivals, and both are celebrated on a grand scale. Yuru Kab Gyat and Hemis Tse Chu are celebrated in the 2nd and 5th month of the Tibetan lunar calendar. Hemis Tse Chu is the biggest monastic festival in Ladakh and lasts for two days. Yuru Kab Gyat is also a two-day-long festival, in which sacred rituals and dances are performed by the monks.

What else can you do at Lamayaru

Apart from spending some time at the monastery, make sure you also enjoy a walk in the village. Ladakhis, with their exuberant smile, are warm people and you can break ice by simply greeting them, saying “Julley” (Hello in Ladakhi). You can even put your fitness level to test by going on a hike on these moon-like craters

How to reach Lamayaru

The easiest and the most comfortable way to visit Lamayuru is via a cab from Leh. In summers, you can opt for buses, which might take a much longer time, but fun, adventure and affordability assured

The drive through this stretch is exceptional to say the least. The landscape changes the moment you leave Leh; and mark our words, you would remain spell-bound throughout the journey