One of the must visit destinations during your tour to Kashmir is Lamayuru, popularly known as Moonland of Ladakh. Lamayuru is situated midway between Leh and Kargil on the National Highways NH1-D, an exuberant location to explore especially if you are a nature lover, photo fanatic or one who wants to stay away from modern ways of life for couple of days or one who loves to listen to the sound of nature’s tranquil beauty.

Even before reaching Leh, one can visit Lamayuru after the highest pass of Srinagar Fotu La. One has to travel for another 100kms to reach Leh from Lamayuru. The roads are well laid and maintained in excellent condition and driving through the passes will indeed be a blissful part of your tour to Kashmir.

The dazzling mountains and deep valleys transform entire region into a surreal one, with moonscapes dotted across. Let us look about some more interesting locations in and around Lamayuru.

Lamayuru Monastery : One of the oldest monasteries in Ladakh region and is the main seat of Drikung Kagyu tradition in Buddhism. The oldest structure is located to the east of Fotu La at a height of 3500 meters above the sea level. The lower region of Ladakh is dotted with more than 50 monasteries with more than 300 monks are functioning under the control of this main seat. All the monks join with their resident counterparts during the annual masked dance festivals when special prayers and rituals are on.

Meditation Hill : If you are very specific to explore the moonscapes of Lamayuru, then reach up to the Meditation Hill, where the monks of Lamayuru Monastery arrive to sit on meditational practices. Meditation Hill is found to have the most bedecked of all stupas in Ladakh region. It is also seen that the team of monks prepare native medicines from the herbs locally available in the medical laboratory here.

From the top of this hill, the fascinating aerial view of LAmayuru can be enjoyed and most importantly the unevenly formed twists and turns of the road showcase the moonscapes in the most beautiful form. It is believed that on full moon day, the moonscape will look gorgeous with its own absurdities.

Uleytokpo The well-known base camp at the western side of Ladakh is Uleytokpo, a serene and tranquil location for which you will fall in love especially if you are a peace-loving person. Though it is only a base camp from where the tourists get into their further plans to explore regions around. Still, Uleytokpo attracts everyone with its scenic locations and gorgeous landscapes, a well deserved weekend getaway.

Wanla Gompa he ancient monastery located at mountain ridge overlooking wanla village of Ladakh is a must visit spot in Lamayuru. It is one of the few surviving prayer chambers dating back to 9th century following Drigung Kagyu prayer chambers still preserving its traditions and culture. Highlight of Wanla Gompa is the Avalokitesvara temple and the monastery is one among the very sacred 108 monasteries. The three storied eleven headed image of Mahakaruna or Avalokitesvara is more prominent here with devotees from all parts arrive here to seek blessings of Lord Buddha.

Homestays of Lamayuru : Despite the challenge that the region does not seem to have super luxury and luxury accommodations, there are wonderful homestays making you feel as if you are at your home with the matchless hospitality and kindest gestures. Do try staying in one of these homestays, though with very basic amenities, touch your heart with their smiles and wonderful Kashmiri cuisines.