Lamayuru

Location

Lamayuru is a scruffy little village situated about 127 km west of Leh, but has one of the most spectacular gompas. It is not so much the gompa, but the location and construction that makes it special. It is perched above a drained lake, overlooked by massive mountains. Founded in the 10th century, this Kagyupa monastery is one of the largest and oldest ones in Ladakh, with a resident population of 150 monks.

The largest and the oldest gompa in Ladakh, Lamayuru lies on a spectacularly beautiful road, about 125 km west of Leh. Founded by Mahasiddhacharya Naropa, this monastery belongs to the Red-Hat Sect of Buddhism. The monastery is completely a sand stone architecture of the 11th century. Popular for a number of shrines, thangkas and several marvellous wall paintings, Lamayuru gompa serves as the residence of approximately 150 monks. Apart from a rich history and unique architecture, the place is known for wonderful surroundings and interesting topography.

Lamayuru monastery, popularly known as 'Yangdrung Gomp', is a gateway to zanskar and a landmark on the old silk route.

Image Credit:

http://www.flickr.com/photos/shicks/2525036631/
http://www.flickr.com/photos/bobwitlox/2720085077/

Accessibility

By Air: The nearest working airport is in Leh. This airport will have flights from the cities of Delhi, Srinagar, Jammu and even Pune.

By Road: Buses are available from Leh or Kargil directly to the region of Lamayuru.