VISIT
LADAKH » Places to Visit » Lamayuru
Lamayuru

An
old foundation associated with the Tibetan Yogi, Marpa, Lamayuru is now the
second largest monastic establishment of Zanskar, inhabited by the resident
community of about 60 Gelukpa monks. The sprawling whitewashed complex has a
number of temples, each a repository of the region's rich monastic legacy. Lamayuru
can be reached by foot in about 4 hours along the recently laid rough road.
The climb up to the monastery is rather strenuous, but it is worth the trouble
for the breathtaking scenery of the valley available from here.
How to Reach?
The 240 km long Kargil-Padun road, of which the first 90 km stretch is paved,
remains opened from around mid July to early November. The J&K SRTC operates
a thrice weekly B-class bus service from Kargil. However groups can charter
A-Class or even Super-Deluxe buses to visit Zanskar, including the interior
Places to Visit like Lamayuru, Zangla and Karsha. Jeeps and Gypsy taxis can
also be hired at Kargil. During June and early July, prior to opening of the
road, it is recommended to walk into Zanskar from panikhar or Parkachik onwards.
In June, the summer is at its height in the region and the climate is ideal
for trekking along the route free from vehicular traffic of any kind and when
the countryside is freshly rejuvenated into life after months of frigid dormancy.