Lamayuru Monastery

Lamayuru Monastery, also known as Yuru Monastery, is one of Ladakh's most important Buddhist monasteries in the northernmost part of India. It is situated at an altitude of 3,510 meters above sea level in the valley of the Indus River, about 125 kilometres west of Leh, the capital of Ladakh. The monastery is perched on a hilltop overlooking a picturesque landscape of arid mountains and valleys, making it one of the most stunningly situated monasteries in the region.

The monastery was founded in the 10th century by the famous Tibetan scholar Mahasiddha Naropa, who is revered as one of the greatest saints in the history of Tibetan Buddhism. According to legend, Naropa was meditating in a cave near the site of the present-day monastery when he had a vision of the goddess Tara, who appeared to him as a beautiful woman. She told him the place was sacred and that he should build a monastery there.

Lamayuru Monastery has become one of the region's largest and most important Buddhist monasteries. The monastery is home to around 150 monks and nuns following the Drikung Kagyu Tibetan Buddhism school. The monastery has several prayer halls, meditation rooms, and living quarters for the monks and nuns.

Lamayuru Monastery is its architecture. The monastery is built in the traditional Tibetan style, with whitewashed walls, sloping roofs, and colourful prayer flags fluttering in the breeze. The main prayer hall, known as the Sumtsen Lhakhang, is decorated with stunning frescoes and murals depicting scenes from the life of the Buddha and other Buddhist deities.

Lamayuru Monastery is also famous for its annual Mask Dance Festival, held during the fifth month of the Tibetan lunar calendar (usually in July or August). During the festival, the monks perform elaborate masked dances and rituals, which are believed to ward off evil spirits and bring good luck and prosperity to the community.

Lamayuru Monastery can witness the daily prayers and rituals of the monks, as well as explore the surrounding area, which is rich in natural beauty and cultural heritage. The monastery is easily accessible by road from Leh, and visitors can also stay at the monastery guesthouse, which offers basic but comfortable accommodations for travellers. 

Places To Visit Near Lamayuru Monastery:

Moonland:

Moonland is a unique landscape near Lamayuru characterized by its unusual rock formations. The area looks like it's from another planet, with its impressive terrain and striking colours. It is said to have been formed by the slow erosion of the soil and rocks, and it is a popular spot for photography.

Alchi Monastery:

Alchi Monastery is another famous Buddhist monastery in Ladakh, about 60 km from Lamayuru. It is known for its beautiful murals and sculptures that date back to the 11th century. The sanctuary also has a small museum showcasing Ladakh's history and culture.

Magnetic Hill:

Magnetic Hill is a mysterious natural phenomenon located about 65 km from Lamayuru. It is said that vehicles parked on the hill will roll uphill against gravity, creating an illusion that the mountain is magnetic. It is a popular tourist spot and a great place to take unique photographs.

Zanskar Valley:

Zanskar Valley is a remote and beautiful valley in Ladakh known for its stunning natural beauty. It is located about 120 km from Lamayuru and is accessible only by road. The valley has picturesque villages, beautiful monasteries, and scenic trekking routes.

Leh Palace:

Leh Palace is a historic palace located in Leh, the capital of Ladakh. It was built in the 17th century by the rulers of Ladakh and served as their residence. The court is now a museum showcasing Ladakh's history and culture, and it offers beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

Hemis Monastery:

Hemis Monastery is one of Ladakh's most famous and largest monasteries, located about 140 km from Lamayuru. It is known for its colourful festival, Hemis Festival, which is held annually in June or July. The monastery also has a museum that showcases its history and culture.and-nagar-haveli-and-daman-and-diu/bom-jesus-church