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Lamayuru Leh Monastery

Lamayuru is one of the largest and oldest monasteries in Ladakh. Legend has it that the region where Yungdrung Tharpaling (Lamayuru) is today, approximately 120 km west of Leh, the capital of Ladakh, was under a large lake at the time of Buddha Shakyamuni (historical Buddha). I was even surprised to hear that, but this could be the secret of Lamayuru’s famous Moonland.

Lamayuru Monastery to Leh

As we progressed, the true vibrant colors of Ladakh began to emerge. It was beauty at its best. We kept walking at a steady pace with little breaks in between.

We arrived in Leh around 3:30 pm and were greeted by a very close friend of RakeshG named Mr. Karma, who runs a restaurant near the bus stop.

Leh, finally !!!

He had already booked accommodations for us nearby at a guest house called Laga Guest House. We paid Rs. 1500 per night there. The stay was comfortable with 24-hour hot water, room heaters and a market within walking distance.

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We all rested shortly before heading to Mr. Karma’s restaurant for a round of drinks to celebrate the completion of the first part of the journey. Phone calls were made to the family to inform our welfare. Fortunately, postpaid Airtel was working well in Leh at least. Tomorrow was a day to organize the licenses with some local card rides.

By the time we finished dinner, it was already 10 pm As it was getting cold outside, it was time to hit the bed. Please read Sightseeing in Leh – A Day in Leh City to continue reading the next part of this journey. Below is some more information about the route between Lamayuru and Leh.

Leh to Lamayuru Road

The road condition between Lamayuru and Leh is super smooth. In fact, I think this is the best stretch of road you’ll find on your entire journey to and from Ladakh.

Map from Leh to Lamayuru

For a map of the route between Lamayuru and Leh, and indeed the entire Ladakh region, read A comprehensive map of Leh Ladakh.

Leh to Lamayuru Taxi

A private taxi from Leh to Lamayuru or vice versa will cost between Rs. 4000 to Rs. 6000 depending on your negotiating skills. A trip in a shared taxi will cost less than Rs. 1000

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Leh to Lamayuru Drive

The trip on this 115-kilometer stretch is very enjoyable and has several sights on the way. Sham Valley also falls in the same stretch. In total it will take you no more than 4-5 hours to get to Leh de Lamayuru.

Kargil to Leh via Lamayuru

If you, however, spent the night in Kargil, the travel time to Leh via Lamayuru will easily be 6 to 7 hours or more. The total distance would increase to about 220 kilometers.

Bus from Lamayuru to Leh

There is no direct bus between Leh and Lamayuru. You’ll have to board the bus from Kargil or Srinagar (both buses travel by Lamayuru) or look for a shared taxi.

Itinerary from Leh to Lamayuru

If you were traveling to Leh from Srinagar side, as we did, you can easily cover Lamayuru and all places in transit while on the way. If you, however, flew to Leh or got there via Manali and had no intention of traveling on the Leh Srinagar Road, a trip to Lema to Lamayuru can easily be done in one day. Start early from Leh, possibly at 6am, and drive to Lamayuru. On the way you can visit Magnetic Hill, Gurudwara Pathar Sahib and Indus Zanskar Confluence. Arrive in Lamayuru before noon, visit the monastery here and start driving back to Leh. If you have time, you can also visit the Alchi, Likir and Phyang monasteries on the way.

How do I get to Lamayuru Monastery?

The best way to get to the monastery from Leh would be a stand-alone vehicle. Otherwise you can board the daily bus to Srinagar and get off at Lamayuru. A third option would be to rent a motorcycle in Leh and go to Lamayuru. If within budget, hiring a private taxi for a day trip is also a great option.

What is the oldest monastery in Ladakh?

There is really no way of saying this, but Lamayuru Monastery is considered the oldest in Ladakh.

What is the largest monastery in Ladakh?

Diskit Monastery is considered the largest monastery in Ladakh.

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